Q1: What was the first competition where you represented Team Canada? When was it?
Las Vegas International Open – 2019.
Q2: Did you compete in other sports before weightlifting? If yes, which ones and at what level?
I played football growing up until 2015. I played at the university level for Mount Allison University and then professionally in the CFL for the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
Q3: Why do you compete in weightlifting?
When my football career ended I struggled with not being competitive in something. It felt like this “purpose” that I basically dedicated my life to had just ended, and I needed something to fill that void. I knew I always loved training and I figured strength sports would suit me well.
Q4: What do you most enjoy about training?
That you can work hard for days, weeks, months, years, etc. to put a kilo on your best lift. Then when it’s all over, you get to do it again.
Q5: What do you enjoy the least about training?
Any sort of “up” – sit ups, chin ups, standing up out of my chair.
Q6: What are your short term goals for weightlifting (1-2 years)?
Among the many I have, break the 109+ Canadian records, represent Canada at Commonwealth Games in 2022 and the Pan Am Games in 2023.
Q7: What are your long term goals for weightlifting? (3 + years)
Empty the tank.
Q8: What has been your proudest moment in weightlifting?
Not sure. I haven’t really thought about it. I don’t like to look back, I’d rather look ahead.
Q9: What are your top 3 achievements in weightlifting so far?
Not sure. I haven’t really thought about it. I don’t like to look back, I’d rather look ahead.
Q10: Are you currently studying or working in addition to your weightlifting career? If yes, what are you doing?
I graduated from Mount Allison University (Mountie PRIDE) with a B.Comm in 2015. Since then I took over the family business. I’m a commercial waterproofing contractor – a specialized subtrade in the commercial construction industry here in Halifax.
Q11: What are your plans after your weightlifting career is over?
Depends on a lot of things. There’s a long time between now and then. A lot can happen.
Q12: Who is your weightlifting role model and why?
Not sure if role model is a good word for it. But I’ve always enjoyed watching Ian Wilson from USA lift. The way he attacks the lift and grinds through any struggle with absolute grit. Training in an unheated garage with his old man – I love it.