Calgary hosts para powerlifting development camp with an eye towards LA in 2028 [Video]

Tracey Rice’s son Dylan Sparks is the reason she has spent the better part of a decade building para powerlifting to becoming a more common sport within the para athlete community.

Sparks was born with spina bifida, paralyzing him. Starting with wheelchair basketball, he began the shift to the gym and powerlifting.

Rice says the supports were not in place for parents, athletes or coaches of para powerlifters, and she wanted to change that.

“These athletes deserve a stand, all of that to highlight what they can accomplish,” said Rice.

“I wanted an event that would mimic what they’re going to see on the world stage.”

An event called the Para Powerlifting Development Camp is taking place in Calgary this weekend, where 18 athletes are taught the ropes, new tricks and how competitions will work on the world stage, including the Paralympics.

“They don’t just sat hey, I want to …