The curling world is in mourning following the passing of esteemed Paralympic champion Darryl Neighbour.
Described by his niece, Starleigh Genovese, as someone who turned a personal tragedy into a triumph, Darryl Neighbour’s legacy transcends mere sporting achievements. Long before his induction into the Canadian Curling Hall of Fame and his numerous national and international accolades, Neighbour’s passion for curling was ignited in a modest two-lane rink built by his father in rural Alberta.
“Since we were young, we learned to throw rocks when we were just five or six years old,” recalled Linda Neighbour, Darryl’s sister.
However, the path to greatness was not without its challenges. A workplace accident that left Neighbour paralyzed led him to emerge as one of Canada’s most remarkable wheelchair curlers.
“He took what could have been a tragedy and turned it into the best part of his life,” reiterated Genovese.
A celebration of Neighbour’s life held recently emphasized how he transformed adversity into opportunity. The towering figure of the sport tragically passed away in August, a victim of a fatal accident in Richmond, where he was struck by a vehicle while crossing the street. His pinnacle achievement was clinching the gold medal at the 2010 Paralympic Games in Vancouver.
Having shared a close bond with Neighbour since their meeting at the Marpole Curling Club in the early 2000s, Vince Miele highlighted Neighbour’s pivotal role in popularizing wheelchair curling.
“When wheelchair curling was emerging, very few clubs were wheelchair accessible. Those of us involved not only wanted to compete but also engage socially after games,” Miele explained.
Neighbour’s dedication to inclusivity saw him collaborate with the Rick Hansen Foundation to secure funding for an elevator installation at the club. Whether supporting new players, offering guidance, or fostering camaraderie within the tight-knit curling community, Neighbour’s selflessness and commitment to the sport were unparalleled.
“He took a potentially devastating situation and turned it into a source of inspiration while remaining remarkably humble. A true legend knows how to stay grounded, and I believe my brother embodied that spirit,” shared Linda.
Darryl Neighbour’s remarkable journey came to a close at the age of 78, leaving behind a lasting legacy in the curling world.
