OTTAWA, ON (October 1, 2023) – In a remarkable triumph that has sent shockwaves through the gymnastics world, the Canadian Men’s Artistic Gymnastics Team has achieved an extraordinary milestone, punching their ticket to Paris 2024 after 15 years.
René Cournoyer, Félix Dolci, William Émard, Jayson Rampersad, Zachary Clay and Yanni Chronopoulos have secured a ticket Paris 2024. The last time a Canadian men’s gymnastics team qualified for the Olympic Games was in 2008, and it took 15 long years of unwavering dedication, persistence, and an unquenchable spirit for this remarkable team to rewrite history.
Securing an Olympic Spot
The journey to Olympic qualification reached its peak during the 2023 World Championships held in the heart of Antwerp, Belgium. Canada’s gymnasts faced stiff competition from around the globe. They needed to clinch a top-12 finish in the Team Qualification to secure an Olympic spot, and they did just that, rising to the occasion with an astonishing 4th place finish. “Leading up to these World Championships, the main goal was securing a team spot to the Olympic Games. Mission accomplished” said Cournoyer.
Experience Meets Youth
Leading this exceptional team is René Cournoyer, the sole member with prior Olympic experience. Cournoyer graced the stage at the Tokyo 2020 Games, making him a guiding force for his teammates. “There is so much significance to this 4th place finish and I am so proud of all my teammates.”, said Cournoyer.
Felix Dolci, another standout gymnast, showcasing his remarkable talents. His journey from the 2018 Youth Olympic Games to becoming a Junior World Champion on rings in 2019 culminated in this historic achievement. A young and fierce competitor, Dolci’s excelled during the team qualification.
Jayson Rampersad, brought his relentless determination and incredible skills to the forefront, contributing significantly to this unforgettable victory. Zachary Clay, a seasoned veteran with seven World Championships under his belt, demonstrated his prowess on the pommel horse, playing a pivotal role in the team’s qualification. His unwavering commitment and dedication have been instrumental. William Émard, another powerhouse for Canada rose to the occasion and made his presence felt in Antwerp. Yanni Chronopoulos, a fresh face on the World Championships scene, brought his team spirit and kept the energy high throughout the whole competition.
A Proud Moment for Canada
This achievement is a testament to the unwavering dedication and passion of Canada’s male gymnasts, their coaches, and the entire gymnastics community. The resilience, courage, and commitment demonstrated by this team not only secured an Olympic spot but also set the stage for an inspiring journey to the grandest sporting event on the planet.
“What a competition – the atmosphere – the emotion – the Team spirit – incredible!!! This result speaks volumes for the Team work, that has brought us to this position – 4th in qualification, Olympic qualification, Team Final, AA Final for Rene, 2 Apparatus Finals for Felix – outstanding. A privilege to lead this Team of Coaches, Judges and support staff. This Team has responded to adversity over the past few years and risen to the occasion. The Team was well prepared and confident going in and produced a historic result. This result will help motivate those Team Members back in Canada and hopefully inspire the next generation.”, said Ed Van Hoof, National Team Coach
As Canada celebrates this historic moment, the gymnastics community stands united in support of our incredible athletes. Their journey to the 2024 Olympic Games is a source of immense pride and inspiration for the nation.
With their eyes set on Paris 2024, this determined team is ready to showcase their skills, passion, and the invincible Canadian spirit on the world’s biggest stage. Prior to competing in Paris, the team will continue to gain valuable Games experience at the 2023 Pan American Games in Santiago, Chile, from October 21 to 25. The countdown to the Paris 2024 Olympics has begun, and Canada will be there, ready to shine. Who can? We can, GymCan!
ABOUT GYMNASTICS CANADA
First established in 1969, Gymnastics Canada has been supporting the mastery of movement in Canada for five decades as the national governing body for the sport of gymnastics in Canada. We work closely with the twelve provincial federations and 700 local clubs to provide a broad range of programs and services to meet the needs of all participants. From athlete development to coach and judge education, Gymnastics Canada sets the operating standards and practices for the sport in Canada. Our mandate is to promote and provide positive and diverse gymnastics experiences through the delivery of quality and safe gymnastics programming. Visit www.gymcan.org for more information or follow us @gymcan1. From here, we soar.
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For more information, contact:
Katia Perin
Manager, Communications
Gymnastics Canada
comms@gymcan.org