Bracebridge swimmer Mary Jibb has earned Canada’s first medal of the 2026 Commonwealth Games, capturing bronze in the women’s SM10 200-metre individual medley on the opening day of competition.
The 19-year-old Paralympian, who trains with the Pacific Seawolves Swim Club, delivered a personal-best swim of 2:32.54 to secure a place on the podium and give Canada its first medal of the Games at the Tollcross International Swimming Centre.
“I heard (that was the first medal) after I touched the wall so I can’t put it into words how this feels. It’s super amazing and I’m proud to walk away with the bronze,” Jibb said after the race.
“It’s the fastest I’ve been since Singapore last year, so I’m super happy. It’s special to be here at my first Commonwealth Games. I feel this is another step forward for the Paralympic movement to have Para swimming integrated into the Games.”
Jibb experienced a stroke as a child that resulted in a physical impairment and has steadily emerged as one of Canada’s top Paralympic swimmers. Her bronze-medal performance continues her rise on the international stage following her appearance at the Paris Paralympics.
Scotland’s Faye Rogers claimed the gold medal in 2:29.61, while Australia’s Jasmine Greenwood took silver in 2:32.13. Fellow Canadians Katie Cosgriffe finished fourth in 2:32.70 and Tianna Asaia placed sixth.
Jibb’s medal highlighted a strong opening day for Canada’s Para swim team. Jack Gill of Brockville also captured bronze in the men’s S10 100-metre butterfly, helping Canada open the Games with two Para swimming medals.
The Commonwealth Games feature integrated Olympic and Paralympic competition, with Canada’s swim team made up of 12 Olympic and 12 Paralympic athletes competing together. Jibb’s performance gives Canada early momentum as the swimming competition continues throughout the week.
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