Prince Albert athlete wins bocce gold, interviews Governor General in Medicine Hat
Tanner Svenson went undefeated through five bocce matches at the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games while also pursuing his broadcasting ambitions.
Tanner Svenson of Prince Albert, Sask., won gold in bocce singles at the 2026 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games in Medicine Hat, defeating B.C.'s Trevor Campese 12-5 in Saturday morning's final at the Big Marble Go Centre. It capped an undefeated run through the tournament, which included wins of 12-0, 12-3, 13-2 and 12-3 before he beat Ontario's Zachery Johnson 13-2 and Nova Scotia's Joseph Spence 14-3 in the semifinal.
Before competing in the gold-medal game, Svenson had a chance to interview Governor General Louise Arbour, a highlight for the athlete, who hopes to pursue a career in broadcasting. He described the experience as a huge honour and said Arbour was genuine and down to earth, adding he hugged her after the interview concluded.
Svenson earned his spot at the national Games after winning gold at two Saskatchewan provincial competitions, including the summer games and provincial summer games in Regina. He got his start in broadcasting working hockey games in Prince Albert, handling the clock, scoresheet and penalty box before moving into colour commentary and play-by-play for the Prince Albert Raiders.
Svenson said he is considering studying broadcasting at the post-secondary level in the future. His interview with the Governor General is available on the Special Olympics Canada Summer Games website.
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