Andrew Pidwerbesky Named Recipient of L. Lamont Gordon Spirit Award

First skeleton athlete to receive honour recognizing sportsmanship and team spirit

CALGARY—Andrew Pidwerbesky has been named the recipient of the 2024 L. Lamont Gordon Spirit Award, an annual honour established in 2017 and presented to a Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton athlete who exemplifies sportsmanship and the core values of commitment, generosity, dedication, and teamwork.

Pidwerbesky is the first skeleton athlete to receive the award, underscoring his impact both on and off the ice within the national program.

“It’s a real honour to accept this award on behalf of Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton’s athletes. Growing up playing team sports my whole life, I’ve always adored the aspects of teamwork, sportsmanship and being a complete team,” said Pidwerbesky. “Even though skeleton is an individual sport where often we are competing against other team members, the aspect of being a real team is still very important and present.”

Nominated by the national program, Pidwerbesky has distinguished himself through a relentless pursuit of excellence and a commitment to fostering a positive team culture. Known for his leadership by example, he consistently supports teammates and helps maintain a focused, resilient environment regardless of circumstances.

“This season’s national skeleton team really reminded me of what being a part of a supportive team was like again. This was true by holding each other accountable, while also motivating, supporting and respecting one another throughout the season,” added Pidwerbesky. “As this program continues to develop and the seasons progress, I know this team spirit continue to grow at Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton.”

In just two years in the sport, Pidwerbesky has made significant strides, demonstrating both performance potential and a deep commitment to his teammates and community. His leadership, character, and dedication make him a deserving recipient and signal a bright future within Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton.

“We see Andrew’s positive attitude every day in training, along with his willingness to step up, lead, and support others when it matters most,” said Joe Cecchini, Head Coach, Canadian Skeleton Team. “He represents exactly the kind of teammate and person we aim to develop in this program, reflecting the values that L. Lamont Gordon lived by.”

The Gordon family, who continue to honour Lamont Gordon’s legacy, provide a $1,000 award to the recipient each year.

A respected Bay Street business leader and former member of Canada’s bobsleigh community, L. Lamont Gordon supported Canadian bobsleigh and skeleton athletes for more than 50 years before his passing in 2019. His legacy lives on through this award, which celebrates not only athletic achievement but the spirit in which the sport is pursued.

Past recipients of the award include bobsleigh athletes: Morgan Ramsay, Leah Walkeden, Cynthia Appiah, and inaugural winner Joey Nemet.

Bobsleigh CANADA Skeleton is a non-profit organization and the national governing body for the sports of bobsleigh and skeleton in Canada. With the support of its valued corporate partners – Karbon, Athabasca Oil Corporation in collaboration with Canada Action’s I Love Canadian Energy campaign, Leeswood Construction, Bomber LD, PX3, Kuritec, Vessi – along with the Government of Canada, Own the Podium and the Canadian Olympic Committee, Bobsleigh CANADA Skeleton develops champions in the community, on and off the track, who have a passion for bobsleigh and skeleton. Please visit us at www.bobsleighcanadaskeleton.ca.