Sport Manitoba has named Darcy Furber as the 2025 SBC Insurance Athlete of the Year.
Furber is a member of the Golf Manitoba Hall of Fame whose career reflects both excellence and perseverance. As a sighted golfer, he achieved significant success, winning the Wellington Cup multiple times and earning a golf scholarship to the University of Southern Mississippi, where he competed from 1983 to 1987.
Due to a hereditary eye condition, Furber gradually lost his vision and stepped away from the game for two decades after the birth of his daughter. In 2015, inspired by the Manitoba Blind Sports Association, he returned to the sport alongside his brother Joe, competing as a B2 golfer. As his vision continued to decline, he transitioned to competing as a B1 golfer in 2024.
In 2025, he delivered an extraordinary season on the international and national stage, winning the World Blind Golf Championship (Low Gross in the B1 category) in Simcoe, Ontario, while also finishing runner-up in the Low Net category against all sight classifications. He also captured titles at the Canadian Blind Golf Championship, Western Blind Golf Championship, and the Manitoba Blind Golf Provincials as a B1 golfer.
“Behind every performance, podium finish, and breakthrough moment is a story of persistence, sacrifice, and belief.” said Sport Manitoba President & CEO Janet McMahon. “Night of Champions is about recognizing those stories and the people who bring them to life across Manitoba. We’re proud to celebrate this year’s nominees and recipients, and grateful to the sponsors, volunteers, and staff who make this celebration possible.”
Beyond his competitive success, Furber has made a lasting impact on the blind golf community in Manitoba. He is a dedicated mentor, supporting and encouraging new athletes to get involved and compete at both local and national levels.
A key part of Darcy’s journey has been the unwavering support of his wife Pam, daughters Kaylee and Madisyn, and his brother-in-law, Ron Oliver, who serves as his guide and coach. Together, they continue to train and compete throughout the summer months, demonstrating the importance of teamwork and trust in the sport.
Furber will be recognized Thursday, April 16th during the Night of Champions presented by Manitoba Liquor & Lotteries, a by invite only event, at the Manitoba Sports Hall of Fame.
Other award winners include:
Konica Minolta Official of the Year – Zdravka Tchonkova (Rhythmic Gymnastics)
Calm Air Team of the Year – Brandon University Bobcats (Men’s Volleyball)
2017 Canada Games Legacy Fund Volunteer of the Year – Colin Mark (Basketball)
Coach of the Year – Tammy De Jong (Baton Twirling)
Each award winner receives a bursary to put toward their involvement in sport, and a banner with their name and award will be displayed at the Sport Manitoba facility.
Sport Manitoba names Darcy Furber SBC Insurance Athlete of the Year
