Chantal Petitclerc

Topics

Presentations

Determination, Perseverance, Discipline: Enhancing your Natural Advantage

Together on the Podium: Recognizing that Personal Success is the Outcome of Team Effort

Summary Profile

Determination, perseverance, discipline. These three qualities truly capture the strength and character of the great Canadian athlete, Olympian and wheelchair race specialist, Chantal Petitclerc. 

A paraplegic from the age of 13, Chantal discovered a passion for sports while seeking a physical activity suited to her post-accident condition. Wheelchair racing helped her to regain confidence in her abilities and sharpened her desire to test her limits. Her coach was struck by her determination and less than a year later, Chantal competed in her first race. In 1991, coach Peter Eriksson taught her how to handle the mental aspects of her sport and how to avoid letting herself become intimidated by opponents. Twice breaking the world record time in the 100m and now a multiple Gold medal Paralympian, Chantal's perseverance and discipline has allowed her to triumph over any obstacle impeding her success. There is not a limit that Chantal does not strive to beat.

Chantal exemplifies perseverance and excellence and she is quick to acknowledge that her success is the outcome of the efforts of many people. Along with her active participation in athletics, Chantal frequently participates in sporting and cultural events. A spokesperson for causes close to her heart, like Le Défi sportif, she also gives numerous lectures on her experience as an athlete and team player. She is an inspiration. 

In June 2009 Chantal was honored with a star on Canada's Walk of Fame and then July 2009 she was appointment as Companion of the Order of Canada (the highest level of the Order) for "her achievements as a Paralympic champion known internationally as an inspiration, and for her commitment to developing sports for athletes with a disability."

 Highlights

• Currently the host of Loto-Quebec, and the Radio-Canada show; Pareil, pas pareil
• Five gold medals in Beijing, One gold medal in Athens, Two Gold and two Silver medal winner at the Paralympic Games in Sydney
• 2000 Maurice Trophy for Female Athlete of the Year recipient
• One of the International Amateur Athletic Federation's 1998 top international women in athletics
• Set a new world record in the 100m at the 1996 Paralympic Games in Atlanta, capturing two Gold medals and three Silver medals
• Won Bronze in the 100m and 800m races at the 1992 Barcelona Paralympic Games

 Rave Reviews

"Ms. Petitclerc exemplifies perseverance and excellence-two qualities that attracted Alcan to become associated with her. In the past three years, Chantal has had the opportunity to meet thousands of Alcan employees across Canada and around the world. We know how much she is appreciated and how proud our employees are to be associated with such a great athlete and such an extraordinary person."

Vice President, Alcan Primary Metal Group