After becoming the first female swimmer with a physical disability to swim across Lake Ontario back in 2006, Jenna Lambert was recently awarded a Meritorious Service Medal from Gov. Gen David Johnston.
The medal, which recognizes Canadians who have accomplished exceptional deeds, was presented to Lambert at a ceremony Friday morning
Lambert completed the swim when she was 15-years-old in 32 hours. As a member of the Kingston Y Penguins Aquatic Club, Lambert’s swim helped raise over $210,000 which contributed to build a new pool at the Kingston Family YMCA.
Lambert has cerebral palsy, but hasn’t let than stand in the way of her dreams. She’s an advocate for the Y Knot Abilities Program, which includes the Kingston Y Penguins.
“I’m among such incredible recipients, so it’s been just a remarkable experience,” Lambert said after receiving the award Friday.
The Kinston Y Penguins Aquatic Club is a team run by Vicki Keith which is an environment specifically designed for disabled swimmers. Swimmers of all levels continue to train with the team, where athletes’ able-bodies siblings are allowed to train as well.
Most recently, Keith put two athletes on the 2015 Para Pan American team as both Abi Tripp and Chris Sergeant-Tsonos competed at the games.