Local athletes compete at 2019 Pan American Games

The 2019 Pan American Games took place in Lima, Peru, from July 26th- August 11th. Team Canada finished with 152 medals, including 35 gold, 64 silver, and 53 bronze! Wow!

The Pan American Games are held every four years, prior to the Summer Olympics. They are a multi-sport event governed by the Pan American Sports Organization. This international organization represents the 41 National Olympic Committees from North America, South America, Central America, and the Caribbean. All member nations are expected to compete at each Games.

Lethbridge was represented at this year’s games by 5 athletes, in both individual and team events:

• Coby Iwaasa – Racquetball
• Liz Gleadle – Athletics, Javelin
• Kayla Moleschi – Rugby 7s
• Larry Steinke – Athletics, coach
• Jillian Weir – Athletics, Hammer throw
• Lauren Sproule - Volleyball

Local athlete Coby Iwaasa competed in his second Pan American Games, with his first being Toronto in 2015. Coby competed in both the men’s singles and double’s racquetball events, losing in the quarter-finals in both to the eventual gold medalists from Mexico.

Current and former University of Lethbridge Pronghorns made their presence felt at these Games.

Former Pronghorns rugby standout and 2016 Olympic bronze medallist Kayla Moleschi helped the Canadian rugby 7s team to its second consecutive gold medal at the Games.

Former Pronghorns javelin thrower, Liz Gleadle impressed many by winning the silver medal in the javelin event. She threw a 63.30m in the final, just 10cm under her throw to winning her the gold medal at the Canadian Championships a few weeks ago. Current Pronghorns hammer thrower Jillian Weir improved on her Nationals performance and finished an impressive 8thplace with a throw of 65.41m.

Team Canada's women's volleyball team finished in 8th spot at the Games.

The 2019 Parapan American Games will also be taking place in Lima, Peru from August 23rdto September 1st. Lethbridge and Southern Alberta locals Lowell Taylor and Payden Olsen will be competing in the road cycling and sitting volleyball events, respectively.