Bruny Surin, who will be Team Canada's chef de mission during the 2024 Olympics in France, says he is living his dream and intends to become the Canadians' biggest “cheerleader.”
Less than 100 days before the opening ceremony, which will take place in Paris on July 26, Bruny Surin is more than ready to fulfill his mission.
“I'm currently living my dream, I've always wanted to do sports since I retired in 2002. I spent 18 years in Olympic sports and I always wanted to work with the new generation, work with them,” he told LCN.
The Olympic track and field champion worked hard to make his dream come true.
“To be selected, you not only have to win medals, you have to be involved in the community, in the Canadian Olympic Committee,” he continued.
“Since my retirement in 2002, I have set up my foundation. I have been in the community across Quebec for 22 years, going into schools to encourage young people to be physically active,” added Mr. Surin.
A primarily human investment
Bruny Surin wants to build bonds with athletes and their families; he has tried almost all sports.
“I don't want to intrude, I don't want to invade their bubble, but they know I'm there, they know they can approach me,” he insisted.
The former athlete will be a spokesman for Team Canada, but also wants to support the participants and talk about his experiences.
“I already know that in Paris I will be everywhere, I know that my family will be there but I will hardly see them because I will be on the field watching the competitions, I will be the one , who will be Team Canada’s biggest “cheerleader” with the flag,” he confided impatiently.
His advice to his protégés: “Yes, do your best, represent Canada well in your competition and outside of competition.” […] and above all I tell them “have fun”, for me that is very important.”
Olympic champion
Bruny Surin has competed in the Olympic Games four times. He won gold in the 4 x 100 m relay in 1996, was eight times Canadian champion in the 100 m and world champion in the 60 m indoors and in the 4 x 100 m relay.
Today it is still the 7the fastest sprinter of all time.
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