On Saturday September 17, 2016 in Brandon Manitoba, I was honoured to say a few words at the congratulatory dinner for Isabela Onyshko, Lorie Henderson, Joe Stouffer and Barb Heaps. It was my pleasure to recognize Isabela for her awe-inspiring performance in Rio and for being the first Canadian gymnast to qualify on beam at an Olympics. Bela made history by working hard and believing in herself. She rose to the occasion, and as a result, inspired a whole new generation of young gymnasts and made us all very proud.
I thanked her parents for their encouragement and dedication and acknowledged the Onyshkos’ for their steadfast support of Isabela.
Behind every great athlete is a wealth of knowledge, and skill. Throughout her gymnastics career, Isabela was coached by Lorie Henderson, Joe Stouffer and Barb Heaps. They were unrelenting in their efforts and always up to the challenge, coaching Bela and bringing out the very best in her. Lorie was chosen by the COC to go to Rio and what a fine job she did!
Both his Worship, Mayor Rick Chrest and MLA, Reg Helwer attended the dinner. Mayor Rick Chrest respectfully gave greetings on behalf of the city of Brandon and the riding of Brandon West to an audience of 125 guests who were in attendance.
On behalf of the MGA, I presented Isabela, Lorie, Joe and Barb with a small gift in in recognition of their accomplishments in the sport of gymnastics.
Lawrence Oystryk
MGA President
