Why Jack Leitch Is Pushing for Mental Health in Calgary

Feb 18, 2026

From Paralympic Gold to the 2026 Push-Up Challenge

This year, as thousands across Calgary take part in the 2026 Push-Up Challenge to raise awareness and funds for mental health, one participant brings a story shaped by resilience, teamwork, and the power of showing up when it matters most.

Jack Leitch, a Paralympic gold medallist and Calgary local, is stepping forward to support mental health in our community — not just through words, but through action.

Striking Gold at the Crossroads of Preparation and Opportunity

Jack grew up skiing in the Canadian Rockies. He was deeply involved in ski racing from a young age and quickly fell in love with the sport, competing as a member of the Alberta provincial team.

In 2016, Jack was approached with an opportunity to use his racing skills to partner with a young man who had dreams of competing in the 2018 Paralympics but needed one key piece to make that dream a reality: a skilled teammate.

Mac Marcoux is a Paralympic skier with limited vision who had previously trained with his brother, Billy Joe (B.J.). Over time, it became clear that B.J. could no longer keep up with the demands of guiding Mac down the hill at the elite level.

Mac began searching for a new guide so he could build on his success from the 2014 Paralympic Games in Sochi, Russia, where he brought home two bronze medals and one gold.

Jack was introduced to Mac in 2016, at a time when he was preparing to attend university. He faced a difficult decision: postpone his studies or team up with Mac for a chance to compete at the 2018 Paralympics in PyeongChang, South Korea.

Jack chose to go all in, committing the next two years to training with Mac and pursuing their shared goal.

The pair quickly discovered strong chemistry and began training intensely. Their hard work paid off as they consistently achieved podium results.

Soon after teaming up, they competed at the World Para Alpine Skiing Championships in Tarvisio, Italy, in January 2017, winning four gold medals and one silver.

At the Paralympics the following season, Mac and Jack captured gold in the downhill and bronze in the giant slalom.

Following the 2018 Games, Jack was invited to continue for another four-year cycle to help Mac prepare for the 2022 Paralympics. This time, Jack chose to pursue his education and earned his Bachelor of Commerce degree from Royal Roads University.

Today, Jack lives in Calgary and works as a Business Development Representative with ATCO EnPower.

There is a saying that “success is where preparation and opportunity meet,” and that mindset has shaped Jack’s journey both on and off the slopes.

Jack understands firsthand the importance of resilience, discipline, and caring for both physical and mental well-being. He stays active with near-daily morning workouts and coaches ski racing on weekends, but just as importantly, he believes in showing up for the mental health of his community.

That’s why Jack is participating in the 2026 Push-Up Challenge in support of CMHA Calgary. With every push-up and every conversation, he is helping fund local programs and supports that help people strengthen their mental wellness right here at home.

Join Jack in Pushing for Better

If you would like to support Jack and help make a difference for mental health in Calgary, please visit his fundraising page:
www.thepushupchallenge.ca/fundraisers/jackleitch/the-push-up-challenge

About CMHA Calgary

Canadian Mental Health Association (CMHA) Calgary is a community-based charity working to ensure that everyone in our city has the opportunity to live, learn, and thrive. Through mental health programs, peer support, education, and community connection, CMHA Calgary supports thousands of individuals and families each year.

Funds raised through initiatives like the Push-Up Challenge help deliver local services that reduce barriers, build resilience, and create spaces where people feel supported and understood.

Together, we are building a stronger, more connected Calgary where mental health is a priority for all.