This month, Triathlon Québec would like to highlight two of its members who have set themselves apart. These two athletes prove that triathlon is much more than a sporting activity, it’s a way of life, regardless of age. Athletes of the month: Chantal Vézina and Yvon Robichaud.

Chantal Vézina, who took part in the Coupe Québec, has already completed her 3rd triathlon of the season and has set her sights on 3 more. For her, triathlon is a passion! At 77 years of age, Yvon Robichaud has also completed 3 triathlons this season. He also hopes to complete 3 more before the end of the season. With his drive and determination, there’s no doubt he’ll give it his all!

Get to know these two models by reading the interviews we were lucky enough to have with them. Happy reading!

Q1. What are you most proud of in your recent accomplishments?

R1 – Yvon

Keeping fit during the long months of confinement and other inconveniences caused by the pandemic.

R1 – Chantal

Pushing my limits. It was an accomplishment for me to complete an enduro triathlon. (I swam three times in a lake, without a wetsuit!).

Q2. Who has helped you the most so far in your athletic career? Why or why not?

R2 – Yvon

It’s hard to name one person in particular. The competitive spirit of sport has always been part of my nature, from an early age. In classical school, we used to say: “mens sana in corpore sano! In the end, I’d say that the person who helped me most to get back into shape through triathlons was my wife (under very special circumstances).

R2 – Chantal

For me, it’s not just one person. First of all, my coach (Fred Jadot) who believes in me more than I do, who helps me reach my goals and pushes me to excel. Then there are my children who encourage me, but above all there’s my lover who supports me in all my madness and training.

Q3. Rank swimming, cycling and running in order of preference.

R3 – Yvon

Swimming, cycling and running.

R3 – Chantal

I now prefer cycling and running. Swimming comes last. 🙂

Q4. Apart from your sport, what is your greatest passion?

R4 – Yvon

Literature in all its forms.

R4 – Chantal

For me, it’s being in the forest and enjoying the beauty of nature.

Q5. What are your goals for the current season?

R5 – Yvon

To date, I’ve done three triathlons. I plan to do three more, as I did last year. My major problem is osteoarthritis, which gradually manifests itself over the years. At 77, I still believe in my own strength, but nature takes its toll, whether you like it or not. I try not to be presumptuous.

R5 – Chantal

Like Yvon, I’ve completed three triathlons this year and have three more to go. My ultimate goal is to do well in Montreal. I’d like to finish the race portion stronger! Always with a smile on my face! 🙂

Q6. What is your ultimate goal?

R6 – Yvon

Do at least one triathlon by the age of 80.

R6 – Chantal

I always keep going, so that one day I can do one with one of my grandchildren, to whom I try to pass on my passion for moving! It’s a way of life, a visceral need and a passion for me. MOVE!