Olympic scouts have their sights set on Winnipeg athletes as they search for the next generation of top-tier competitors. The RBC Training Ground program, which aims to identify and support potential Olympic athletes, has made its way to the city.
The program, which is in its fifth year, has already helped over 1,500 athletes across Canada. It provides a platform for athletes between the ages of 14 and 25 to showcase their skills in various sports, including track and field, cycling, and rowing.
Scouts from the Canadian Olympic Committee, the Canadian Olympic Foundation, and national sport organizations were in Winnipeg on Saturday to evaluate local athletes. They were looking for individuals who possess the physical and mental abilities to excel in their chosen sport.
The event, held at the University of Manitoba’s Max Bell Centre, saw over 100 athletes participate in a series of tests designed to measure their speed, power, strength, and endurance. These tests were developed by national sport organizations and are used to identify potential Olympic talent.
The top performers from the Winnipeg event will move on to the regional final, where they will have the opportunity to compete against athletes from other cities. From there, a select few will be invited to the national final, where they will receive further training and mentorship from Olympic coaches and athletes.
The RBC Training Ground program has already produced success stories, with several athletes from previous years going on to represent Canada at the Olympic Games. This includes track and field athlete Pierce LePage, who competed in the decathlon at the 2016 Rio Olympics.
The program not only provides a pathway for athletes to reach their Olympic dreams, but it also offers financial support through RBC’s Future Olympians Program. This program provides funding for training, equipment, and travel expenses for athletes who are identified as having Olympic potential.
The RBC Training Ground program is a valuable opportunity for young athletes in Winnipeg to showcase their abilities and potentially kickstart their journey to the Olympic Games. With the support and guidance of the Canadian Olympic Committee and RBC, these athletes have the potential to make their mark on the world stage.
