WCH WCH

Youri Simard

2021 Junior Worlds

Q1: What was the first competition where you represented Team Canada? When was it?

In 2018, I was on Team Canada for the first time for the Junior World Championship but I couldn’t participate to the competiton.

Q2: Did you compete in other sports before weightlifting? If yes, which ones and at what level?

I’ve never competed in another sport before but I’ve practiced karate a little

Q3: Why do you compete in weightlifting?

Six years ago I was in the same class as Matt Darsigny, the son of my coach, so he asked me to try weightlifting. I try it and like it so I just continue.

Q4: What do you most enjoy about training?

The satisfaction to see your evolution in the sport and when I achieve my goals.

Q5: What do you enjoy the least about training?

When I’m not progressing or when I have a bad training.

Q6: What are your short term goals for weightlifting (1-2 years)?

Be identified as an elite athlete, to participated at the 2022 Commonwealth Games and to break Canadian junior records in the 61 kg.

Q7: What are your long term goals for weightlifting? (3 + years)

Win a medal at an international competition and breaking the Canadian senior records in the 61 kg.

Q8: What has been your proudest moment in weightlifting?

When I won three golds medals and broke three record at the 2017 Quebec Games.

Q9: What are your top 3 achievements in weightlifting so far?

Number 1: Breaking the three Canadian junior records in the 56 kg.

Number 2: Breaking three Quebec Games’ records.

Number 3: To be qualified at the Junior World Championship.

Q10: Are you currently studying or working in addition to your weightlifting career? If yes, what are you doing?

I’m currently studying in natural sciences.

Q11: What are your plans after your weightlifting career is over?

After my weightlifting career I will probably invest most of my time continuing my studies in biology.

Q12: Who is your weightlifting role model and why?

My weightlifting role model is Naim Suleymanoglu because he proved that even if we are small we can lift big weight. And also because I’m in the same category.

Coach: Yvan Darsigny

Weight Category: 61 kg

Favourite Lift: It depends

Hometown: St-Hyacinthe, Quebec