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National Team

Para

Chaz Misuraca

  • Lead

Born 1987StratfordPursuit

Biography

I started climbing in my 30s shortly after losing 90% of my vision to a hereditary condition called LHON. What began as a way to rebuild confidence quickly became a passion that reshaped my life. Since then, I’ve competed on the IFSC Paraclimbing World Cup circuit and became the first visually impaired athlete to represent Canada on the international stage. I’ve earned silver and bronze at IFSC events, won gold at both Canadian and American Nationals, and even placed in non-disabled categories at outdoor competitions.

Beyond competing, I love supporting adaptive climbing meetups and helping others discover the sport. Climbing has given me purpose, community, and a place to push my limits, and I truly believe it’s for everyone, no matter their age or ability. Outside of climbing, I also play Blind Hockey at the national level, and I’m a proud dad always trying to show my kids what’s possible.

Achievements

  • Silver at IFSC World Cup
  • Bronze at IFSC World Cup
  • 5th at IFSC world championships
  • Two bronze medals at psyicobloc deep water solo comp
  • Gold in para division at horse shoe Hell outdoor climbing comp
  • First in advanced team at horse shoe hell.
  • Third in advanced men horseshoe hell
  • First at USA PARA CLIMBING nationals
  • First at Canadian para climbing nationals

In their words

How did you get into climbing?

I got into climbing because of a girl. After losing most of my vision, I met someone who climbed and encouraged me to try it so we could keep doing things together. I had no idea rock climbing even existed as a sport, let alone competitive climbing — and definitely not competitive climbing for blind Athletes.

What do you enjoy doing outside of training?

Outside of training, I stay pretty active. I play Blind Hockey at a competitive level, and when I’m not on the ice or in the gym, I’m usually spending time with my two boys they keep me busy in the best way. I love being outdoors, whether that’s climbing on real rock, skiing in the winter, or heading out for a quiet day of fishing. Anything that gets me outside, moving, and enjoying the moment is where I’m happiest!

What drives you to compete and excel in climbing?

I compete because I love chasing progress. Climbing gives me clear goals, honest feedback, and endless challenge. After losing 90% of my vision, I needed something that made me feel strong again—something that pushed me in a healthy, meaningful way. Competing gives me direction, discipline, and a reason to show up as the best version of myself, even on the hard days.

I’m driven by the desire to keep growing and to see how far I can go as an athlete.

— Chaz

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