Montreal, August 4th 2026/ Ascension Foundation is proud to announce the completion of its latest financial assistance cycle, which concluded on May 31. A total of $17,600 was awarded to 26 high-performance amateur athletes representing 19 different sports, helping them continue their athletic development and pursue their goals.

 

In addition to these financial assistance awards, the Foundation also provided corporate-sponsored funding and one-time support to athletes between January 1 and May 31, 2026. Altogether, $21,800 was distributed to 28 athletes during this five-month period.

 

This year also marks an important milestone for the Foundation. For the first time since its creation in 2024, the value of its financial assistance awards has increased to better reflect the growing needs of athletes. Funding for athletes competing internationally increased from $500 to $700, while support for athletes competing nationally increased from $350 to $500.

 

Since its inception, the Ascension Foundation has awarded $45,450 to 39 Quebec athletes, reflecting its growing impact within the province's high-performance sport community.

 

"Seeing the Foundation grow so quickly is an incredible source of pride," said Sophie Bouchard, President and Founder of the Ascension Foundation. "With every funding cycle, we're able to support more athletes and provide larger financial assistance awards. This milestone brings us one step closer to our long-term vision: ensuring athletes can make decisions based on what is best for their sport, not their financial situation."

 

Among the athletes supported during this funding cycle are Chad Walsh, a member of the Ski de fond Québec Elite Team, and Dalia Benhamou, a judoka preparing to attend a high-performance training camp in Brazil.

 

"Being recognized as an Elite athlete by Ski de fond Québec opens the door to several international competitions next season. The support from the Ascension Foundation allows me to approach this next stage with confidence and continue pursuing my athletic goals."

– Chad Walsh, Cross-Country Skiing

 

"Thanks to the support of the Ascension Foundation, I can fund part of my high-performance training trip to Brazil. This opportunity will allow me to gain valuable technical experience, train against different styles of competition, and continue progressing toward my athletic goals. Thank you for believing in my potential and supporting my journey."

– Dalia Benhamou, Judo

 

Ascension Foundation extends its sincere thanks to three anonymous corporate donors whose generosity made many of this funding cycle's financial assistance awards possible. The Foundation also recognizes its partners, Bouffe & Cie and Desjardins CPA, who support athletes through discounts and complimentary services while also contributing financially to the Foundation's mission.

 

Finally, the Foundation wishes to acknowledge the 11 participants, all donors, and its committed partner, PhysioExtra Foundation, who contributed to the success of the second edition of the Ascension Challenge: Move for the Athletes. Together, they raised $7,990, and, true to its mission, the Foundation distributed 100% of the funds raised directly to athletes.