Archibald, a fifth-year nursing student in the Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Ottawa, will represent Canada in Para Nordic Skiing Team, marking yet another moment when uOttawa athletes step onto the international stage. She is one of two Gee-Gees Nordic Skiing student-athletes representing Canada at Milano-Cortina 2026. Shilo Rousseau competed at the Olympic Winter Games in February.
From a late start to national pathway
At 16, the Fall River, Nova Scotia native attended a Paralympian Search event hosted by the Canadian Paralympic Committee in Halifax. Coaches from Nordiq Canada immediately recognized her athletic potential and invited her to a development camp in Canmore, Alberta. What began as an introduction to an unfamiliar sport soon evolved into a high-performance pursuit. She credits Nova Scotia’s cross-country ski community with helping her build the confidence and support that sustained her progression.
“I’m incredibly proud of every step that led me here, and even more excited to represent Canada, my communities, and the Paralympic Movement.”
Emma Archibald, fifth-year nursing student
Entering the sport later than many of her competitors, she advanced through the national ranks with focus and consistency. She was first identified for the national pathway in 2021–22, earning a spot on the National Para Nordic Prospects Team. In 2023, she captured double gold at the Canada Games, a breakthrough performance that signalled her arrival among the country’s emerging talents. She placed ninth in the 20km event at the 2025 Para Cross Country World Championships and has recorded four top-five World Cup finishes over the past three seasons.
At the 2026 Paralympics, Archibald will compete in the women’s standing category without poles, a demanding format that requires exceptional balance, strength and technical precision.
Balancing elite sport and nursing studies
Beyond international competition, Archibald has also made her mark in university sport. A six-time Ontario University Athletics (OUA) gold medallist, she has won two medals at each of the 2023, 2024 and 2025 conference championships with the Gee-Gees Nordic Skiing team.
Between training camps and races, Archibald returns to campus to continue her nursing studies, managing coursework and clinical placements alongside national team training.
Her Paralympic debut marks both a personal milestone and a moment of pride for the campus community supporting her journey.
Schedule
| Date | Event | Time (EDT) |
|---|---|---|
| Tuesday, March 10 | Para Cross-Country Sprint Classic | 5 a.m. |
| Wednesday, March 11 | Para Cross-Country 10 km | 5 a.m. |
| Saturday, March 14 | Para Cross-Country 4 x 2.5 km Mixed Relay | 6:30 a.m. |
| Sunday, March 15 | Para Cross-Country 20 km Skate | 5 a.m. |