The town of Forest and Municipality of Lambton Shores are showing up and out for Paralympian Tyler McGregor.
Lambton Shores Mayor Doug Cook said the Para ice hockey captain is a local hero.
"We're all happy that he's there. I think it's a great event for the town. So it means a lot for the community. Everyone's very proud," said Cook. "Tyler has been a local hero for a lot of years."
Forest Legion Branch 176 will host a watch party on Saturday, March 7, where everyone is invited to watch the Para ice hockey game between Canada and Slovakia, beginning at 2:35 p.m.
Local businesses and community members have also put up signs around Forest to show their support, including Kinnwood Central Public School and the Shores Recreation Centre.
"We have a banner up in our arena, that was a community effort from one of our local business people in town," said Cook. "We're very proud of Tyler and very happy that he's going to be there representing Canada and our community."
This is the fourth Paralympic Winter Games for the 31-year-old.
McGregor is also a flag bearer for the opening ceremonies on Friday, March 6. Cook said he'll be watching and hopes others will as well.
Because of its location, which would require significant travel for all Canadian team members, McGregor and his teammates will not attend the opening ceremony and instead be celebrated in their respective villages.
Canada will be represented by 50 athletes at the Milano Cortina 2026 Paralympic Winter Games, taking place until March 15.
