Athletes everywhere are coming up with new and creative ways to stay sharp during the days of COVID-19, but some sports present bigger challenges than others.
With pools being closed as part of the pandemic response, it’s difficult for competitive swimmers to replicate their usual training routine.
But for a pair of Saskatoon-based para swimmers who are accustomed to overcoming adversity, it’s just another challenge to meet head-on.
Shelby Newkirk was gearing up for her first Paralympic Games when the pandemic hit. A silver medalist at the 2019 World Para Swimming Championships, she had already qualified for a spot on Team Canada in Tokyo, and having the Games postponed was tough news to hear.