Bernard Petiot

Vice-Chair

Bernard Petiot, Vice-Chair

Bernard holds a bachelor in Physical Education and has a Masters in Science and Physical Activity from the Université Laval. He also taught Physical Education at the Université de Montréal from 1980-1997. As one of the main organizers of the first international conferences for the development of talent in gymnastics (World Gymnastics Championships held in Montréal in 1985), he was often asked to analyze international competitions such as the Sabaë World Championships and the following Olympic Games: Barcelona in 1992, Atlanta in 1996, Sydney in 2000, Athens in 2004, Beijing in 2008, London in 2012 and Rio de Janiero in 2016, Tokyo 2020, Paris 2024.

Renowned coach at Gymnix de Montréal from 1980-1998, Bernard has contributed to the development of some of Canada’s best gymnasts, including Cathy Giancaspro (Seoul 1988), Mylène Fleury (Barcelona 1992) and Marilou Cousineau (five time World Championships winner). He has also coached the Canadian Olympic Team, through 13 World Championships and 2 Olympic Games.  He continues his contribution to the sport of gymnastics as a Board member since 2021.

Bernard Petiot has been part of the Cirque du Soleil management team for 22 years and holding the title of Vice President of Casting and Performance. His Vice Presidency consists of the following departments: Acrobatic Performance and Equipment Design and Development / Performance Medicine / Artist Training / Coaching / Casting.