The Canada Games Centre in Halifax, N.S., hosted RBC Training Ground on Sunday, marking the 10th year of the national program that helps discover and develop Canada’s Olympic hopefuls.
Athletes pushed their physical limits in speed, strength, power, and endurance tests, with scouts from 15 national sports organizations closely observing for untapped Olympic potential.
“I heard rugby is one of the sports being scouted, and everyone tells me I should give it a try,” said 15-year-old participant Abigail Gaudet.
Since its launch, RBC Training Ground has produced 21 Olympians who have competed in both summer and winter games, contributing to Canada’s medal count.
“We’ve had incredible success,” said Evan MacInnis, the program’s national lead. “From Beijing, Tokyo, and the recent Paris Olympics, athletes identified through this program have brought home 14 medals.”
Four-time Olympian and Halifax native Ellie Black attended the event, fresh off receiving the Progress Club’s Sports Legacy Award. She encouraged young athletes to embrace the opportunity.
“No matter where you come from, if you have a dream and a strong community behind you, chase it,” Black said.
The top 100 athletes from the nationwide qualifiers will advance to the national finals, where up to 35 participants will receive funding and resources to pursue their Olympic goals.
“We’ve tested over 16,000 athletes across the country, and 1,700 of them have received financial support,” MacInnis added.
For kayaker and canoe sprinter Eli Nowlan, the program represents another shot at securing funding.
“I’ve made it to the finals twice but haven’t received funding yet,” Nowlan said. “I’m hoping this year is different.”
Black reminded athletes to stay open-minded, as they might excel in sports they’ve never considered.
“Just come in, give it your all, and don’t overthink it,” she advised.
A total of 184 athletes participated in the Halifax event. The next RBC Training Ground qualifier is set for April 13 in Saint John, N.B.
