The 40-year-old, who lost the use of both legs at the age of 13 when a heavy barn door fell on her, is a 14-time Paralympic gold medallist and one of the most recognisable disability athletes in the world.

Petitclerc has also received numerous awards and recognitions including the Laureus World Sports Award for Sportsperson of the Year with a Disability, the International Paralympic Committee (IPC) Female Athlete of the Year and a Star on Canada's Walk of Fame.

She joins the board along with Andrea Carey, the current facility/program director at the Pacific Institute for Sport Excellence.

David Legg, who has served on the board for 11 years, becomes the organisation's new President while W James Westlake steps up to vice president in a complete reshuffle of the CPC hierarchy.

Henry Storgaard, chief executive of the CPC, said: "After the Canadian Paralympic team's most successful winter Games - and as we enter a new era of funding and support - it is incredible to see such talented and accomplished individuals join our board.

"I am confident this board will provide excellent leadership and vision as we seek to enhance podium performances, build a world-class Paralympic sport system, create a sustainable business model for the Canadian Paralympic Committee and build the Paralympic brand nationally."

Petitclerc and Carey join a team of 12 highly-skilled and diverse individuals who aim to steer the CPC towards its long-term goal of being the world's leading Paralympic nation.

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