QUÉBEC CITY, Dec. 10, 2014 /CNW Telbec/ - Winter World Masters Games biathlon competitor Lise Le Guellec got the biathlon bug at the same time as her son, Canadian Olympic biathlete Jean-Philippe Le Guellec. For Lise, now a biathlon coach, competing in Québec City in 2015 means preaching by example, although it's even more about having fun. And she won't be alone—Jean-Philippe is signed up to lend his support.
Lise's exemplary conditioning leaves no doubt as to where her two sons got their athletic gifts. Both have competed in world biathlon championships and Jean-Philippe is a three-time Winter Olympian as well. Lise herself competed in rifle events with the Cadet Movement and made it to the 1977 Canada Games in St. John's, Newfoundland. She was also a competitive bodybuilder for several years before becoming a biathlon coach and personal trainer.
Lise is a true all-around athlete, and one of her biggest challenges was choosing what to compete in, since Winter World Masters Games participants must choose three events from the nine sports. Her versatility and enthusiasm make her an outstanding ambassador for the Games. Her main focus is biathlon, of course, but she would gladly try everything: skating, triathlon—you name it! She's thrilled that snowshoeing is open to everyone registered at the Games, even if they've already selected their events. As you'd expect, she leapt at the opportunity!
"My goal in entering the Games is to gain some real competition experience," explained Lise. "As a biathlon coach, I think it's important for me to put myself in the shoes of the young people I'm training." Her work as a personal trainer also brings her into contact with clients from a variety of backgrounds, giving her the opportunity to explore many kinds of physical activity. She's not complaining. And her experience at the Games adds another string to her bow.
"You're never too old to have fun and compete," she adds. "I'm finally getting a chance to go up against athletes my own age. I'm in pretty good shape so I expect I'll do all right. And if I don't come out on top, that's okay too. For me it's not really about the medals. What's important is to give it everything you've got and to be proud. The rest will follow if it's meant to be."
With the support of her family of athletes, she's guaranteed to come away with great memories, whatever the results. She'll undoubtedly be a formidable rival for all who face her.
About the Winter World Masters Games
More than 20 countries will be represented during the Winter World Masters Games in Québec City January 31 to February 8, 2015. Sports on the program include are alpine skiing, biathlon, cross country skiing, curling, ice hockey, long track skating, marathon skating, short track skating, triathlon, snowshoeing (demo sport). Organized by International Masters Games Association (IMGA), the Winter Masters Games will be held for the second time, the first were held in Bled in 2010. The Summer Masters Games are held every four years since 1985.
SOURCE: Société du Centre des congrès de Québec
Ann Cantin, Québec City Convention Centre, Director, Communications and Marketing, 418 649-7711, ext. 4054, [email protected]
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