Canadian Lifeguards at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games

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In preparation for the Paris Olympic Games, the Fédération Française de Sauvetage et de Secourisme reached out to the Lifesaving Society to fill volunteer lifeguarding positions during aquatic events such as triathlon, swimming, rowing, and many more. Following a call for applications from Canadian lifeguards, 700 applications poured in, were reviewed, sorted, and sent to the Federation for final selection.

We are pleased to introduce the 12 selected participants:

  • Domenic Coppola (Amos, QC)
  • François Houle (Sherbrooke, QC)
  • Gabriella Denis (Terrebonne, QC)
  • Isamël Chakir (Montreal, QC)
  • John Rapp (Ottawa, ON)
  • Karianne Cliche (Ottawa, ON)
  • Marie-Hélène Proulx (Montreal, QC)
  • Océane Lajeunesse (Montreal, QC)
  • Rosanne Trépanier (Montreal, QC)
  • Samuel Ostiguy Coupal (Montreal, QC)
  • Stéphane Cliche (Ottawa, ON)
  • Vincent Poulin (Chelsea, QC)

"I would like to congratulate all the lifeguards who have the honor of participating in this extraordinary event as volunteer aquatic supervisors. Their enthusiasm and dedication are a tremendous source of pride for us, and we extend our heartfelt thanks to everyone who submitted their applications. They embody the spirit of excellence and altruism that defines Canadian lifeguarding."

— Raynald Hawkins, Executive Director of the Lifesaving Society, Quebec Division

To comply with French regulations, our 12 members will undergo an intensive 5-day training program, after which they will receive the prestigious certification from the Fédération Française de Sauvetage et de Secourisme. From July 13 to August 12, their journey in France promises to be an unparalleled life experience. Indeed, this opportunity to provide aquatic supervision and first aid for the world’s greatest athletes will undoubtedly remain etched in their memories forever.

On behalf of the entire Lifesaving Society, we wish them the best and look forward to hearing their inspiring stories.

We invite you to stay tuned to our social media platforms, including the Lifesaving Society Facebook page and Instagram account, where they will be sharing updates about their training, supervision experiences, and interactions with other nations participating in the Paris Olympic Games.