Name: Ross Wilson
Born: Dec. 10, 1981
Sport: Road and track cycling
What’s his story?
Wilson is a chartered accountant from Edmonton who only picked up para-cycling a couple years ago. It took him no time at all to be among the world’s best: At his first-ever World Cup in 2014, Wilson earned a bronze medal. He’s now Canada’s top rider. Wilson competes in the C1 division, which is for riders with the most severe impairments, and includes athletes whose limbs have been amputated. He has a neuromuscular disease called Charcot-Marie-Tooth-Disease. Wilson will be competing in every event: On the road, the road race and time trial. On the track, the 1-km and individual pursuit.
Best result
At the Para-Track Cycling World Championships earlier this year, Wilson finished second in the 3,000-metre individual pursuit.
Biggest rival
Wilson says there’s no racer in particular he considers his rival, but he expects strong competition from the American and Argentine racers.
Here’s an interesting fact
Wilson bought himself a road bike in 2012 as a reward for losing 100 lb. prior to his wedding. Seriously. Then he joined Juventus Cycling Club and met coach Cam Jennings, who helped him progress in the sport. Wilson says he has a strong interest in food and beverage, and knows a lot about the history of coffee. He also loves trivia.
Prediction
He’s a newcomer, but expect to see Wilson on the podium in the time trial. He’s going for personal bests, and should also be a medal threat in the pursuit, which is his strongest event.
