August 11, 2025
Veronica MacLellan, representing Team PEI in swimming, has claimed a bronze medal in the 400m para freestyle race at the 2025 Canada Games, held in St. John’s, Newfoundland and Labrador.
At just 14 years old, MacLellan delivered a standout performance on the opening day of competition, clocking a personal best time of 5:21.21 to secure a podium finish in front of a lively crowd at The Works Aquarena.
“I’m very happy and excited. I am the third swimmer to get a medal at the Canada Games in PEI history. It feels amazing and I feel very proud to be an Islander right now. I love that I’m representing Team PEI and that I have a medal to bring home to everyone,” said Veronica MacLellan.
Her medal marks the third ever in swimming for Team PEI at the Canada Games, a proud moment in provincial sports history. Previously, Katherine Josey won PEI’s first-ever swimming medal, a silver in the 100m freestyle in 1985. In 2017, Alexa McQuaid, Josey’s daughter, added another silver to the family legacy in the 50m breaststroke.
Also making history on the first day of competition was Ryan Reid, who competed in the very first swim of the Games for Team PEI. Ryan set a new provincial record in the men’s 800m freestyle, finishing with a time of 9:11.69, breaking the previous record of 9:13.65. His performance not only set the tone for the team’s strong start but also highlighted the depth of talent in PEI’s swimming program.
Having a podium finish on the first day of competition was a proud moment for Team PEI.
The 2025 Canada Games bring together over 4,000 athletes from across Canada, showcasing the next generation of Canadian sport talent. Follow Team PEI’s journey throughout the Games at www.teampei.ca and on social media @Team_PEI.