Climbing Escalade Canada is proud to announce the recipients of the 2025 Jaxson MacDonald Memorial Grant, a program created to honour the memory and legacy of Jaxson MacDonald by supporting young athletes who embody his passion, determination, and spirit for the sport of climbing.
This year, six Youth National Team athletes have each been awarded a $1,000 grant to help offset the costs of attending the 2025 IFSC Youth World Championships in Helsinki, Finland:
- Amari Bourbonnais – British Columbia – Youth B, Lead, Boulder
- Brooke White – Alberta – Youth A, Boulder
- Evan Rajan – Ontario – Youth B, Boulder
- Kaitlyn Davies – Ontario – Youth A, Speed
- Maxime Thérien – Québec – Youth A, Lead, Boulder
- Sienna Chow – British Columbia –Youth A, Lead, Boulder, Speed
The selection process was conducted by an independent review panel, composed of five individuals from across the Canadian climbing community. Every application received was thoroughly reviewed and fairly considered, with decisions made through a transparent and unbiased process.
In alignment with the goals of the grant, priority was given to athletes in their final year of eligibility (second-year Youth A). The panel also considered factors such as gender balance, regional representation, and discipline diversity to ensure the grant reflects the spirit of inclusion and excellence that defined Jaxson’s legacy.
The 2025 grant distribution included five grants generously funded by the MacDonald Family, with an additional sixth grant made possible through donations received on the CEC donation page for the Jaxson MacDonald Fund.
We are deeply grateful to everyone who has contributed. Donations are still being accepted, and all future contributions will help grow the 2026 funding packages, allowing us to support even more deserving athletes next season.
We extend our sincere congratulations to the recipients, and we thank all the applicants who shared their stories and goals with us. Your passion and dedication continue to inspire the climbing community.
This program would not be possible without the generosity and vision of Michael and Dayna MacDonald, and the heartfelt support of the Canadian climbing community. Climbing Escalade Canada is honoured to help bring their vision to life in honour of their son, Jaxson, and we remain committed to supporting and growing this meaningful program in the years to come.
