The Current Five-time Paralympian Mark Arendz digs deep in Milano Cortina
Mar 13, 2026
Mark Arendz, Para nordic skier from PEI and one of Canada’s most decorated Paralympians. He talks about racing through fatigue and warm conditions in Milano Cortina. He describes the electric fan energy and what it means to have his brother coaching beside him. He reflects on growth across five Paralympics and mentoring the next generation.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Train For Tough Snow And Prioritize Recovery
- Prepare for variable conditions and prioritize recovery because warmer weather made snow thick and taxing at Milano Cortina.
- Mark trained specifically for these tougher snow conditions and relied on the body's recovery routines between races.
Brother Becomes Coach And Paralympic Teammate
- Mark Arendz's brother Menno became his shooting coach four years ago and attended his first Paralympics in Milano Cortina.
- Having a sibling as coach gave Mark emotional backing and a training push that he credits with improving his shooting and results.
Parents Return To Watch Both Sons Compete
- Mark's parents returned to the Paralympics for the first time since Vancouver 2010 to watch both their sons compete in Europe.
- Their presence felt meaningful because Vancouver had been a safe first experience, and this trip let them witness the culmination of years of development.