Return of Montreal's Défi sportif provides outlet for youth athletes with disabilities

Whether it be swimming, ice skating or basketball, 15-year-old Leah Gustave has never been shy about trying a sport, even though she was born with arthrogryposis, a condition which severely limits movement in her joints.

About four years ago, that curiosity helped her find her passion: boccia, a precision ball sport she hopes to one day play at the Paralympic Games, representing Canada.

"At first, I was just throwing balls. And I thought it was fun," she said, giggling with her mother by her side. "Then I learned how to play, how to strategize."

This weekend, the Côte-des-Neiges teen will be among 4,000 athletes competing at the 39th edition of the Défi sportif AlterGo — an adapted sports competition held every year in Montreal, which has been less accessible in recent years due to COVID-19.

The 2020 edition was cancelled. Last year's event was scaled back and mostly held virtually, with athletes such as gymnasts submitting videos of their performances instead of competing in person.

"It's more fun to actually see people you haven't seen in a while," Leah said. "It's a family."

Event organizers say after two years of disruptions, this year, there's a special buzz at Montreal's Maurice-Richard Arena, where several competitions will take place in the coming days.

Jérémie Brisebois, Défi sportif's director of sports and development, said the competition is a vital outlet for young athletes with disabilities, who often use sports to practise certain daily movements and help stay fit.

"The athletes were at home and it was difficult to get out. It was difficult to practise sports. It was difficult for mental health, and it was difficult for physical health," Brisebois said.

Brisebois, who has been involved with Défi sportif