This week, I would like to talk to you about an amazing initiative: Youth Olympics. The first edition of the 2010 Summer Youth Olympics was held in Singapore from August 14 to 26. The International Olympic Committee took the decision, in 2007, to launch the Youth Olympics. I think it is a super idea that helps to promote sport to young athletes.  

The Youth Games is a gathering of 3,600 athletes from everywhere around the world! Ambassadors for this first edition were the American swimmer Michael Phelps, the Russian perchman Yelena Isinbayeva and the Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt, all world records holders.

 Wow, what an idea and good success!

Alex

Last Tuesday, August 17, was the Ronald McDonald House Charities golf tournament in Tremblant. The event was successful and raised a total of $90,000. Everyone had fun and got to enjoy a wonderful day.

Also, I’m currently in Europe for half vacation, half training camp. It is always fun and refreshing to do something else, to do something different for a while, but I’m starting to really look forward to competing again. This shows me how much sport is a real passion for me. Same goes for you, summer is almost over and back to school is just around the corner. Enjoy the rest of your time as well as the nice weather!

Alex

Yesterday, the Canadian Olympic Committee announced who would be the next Chef de mission for the 2012 Canadian Olympic team in London. It will be the swimming legend Mark Tewksbury.

Mark is a role model and I think that it is an excellent choice. Now 42 years old, he has many titles under his belt including three Olympic medals: a gold medal in the 100-metre backstroke at the Barcelona 1992 Olympic Games, and a bronze (1992) and silver (1988) medal in the men’s 4x100-metre medley. He also received many awards. But it is mostly his leadership, his team spirit and his passion for sports that got him the title of Chef de mission.

When he retired, he decided to co-found a professional development company and become a motivational speaker to share his experience. Swimming was not only a sport for Mark; it was also a school for life. I had the chance to meet him a few times. I love his way of seeing things and I’m really happy for him!

You can go see on the Canadian Olympic Committee website for more details. On my end, I am away for a while, I’ll keep you posted!

Alex

It’s summer time, the sun is shining and it’s easy to get distracted and have a good time with friends and family. This is why I have to stay focused and not forget my main goal, the London Olympic Games. I’m training hard and giving my 100 % everyday. Also, there has been a slight change in my schedule; I’ll first stop in Europe before going to China.

Finally, I would like to mention the Ronald McDonald House Charities golf tournament in Toronto that took place last week. They raised just over $190,000! Wow, thanks to all of the generous contributors.

Alex

Photo: John Betts, President of McDonald’s Canada, Richard Ellis, President of Ronald McDonald House Charities, Ronald McDonald, Devon Friedman and Rem Langan from RMHC.

Busy week! Yesterday, in Toronto, was the official launch, organised by the Canadian Olympic Committee, of the “Own the Podium 2012” program. They also seized the opportunity to they announced the performance goals and launched themselves on the road to the London Games in 2012; it’s looking good if we refer to the historic 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games in Vancouver, and it is excellent news. We could feel the excitement!

Many medias were on site to cheer on us but also to ask us questions on our preparation and on the effect of a program like this one. I did a lot of interviews. I invite you to watch the one I did on CBC to know more about my next steps until the Games.

Unfortunately, last weekend, I couldn’t dive in Spain as I had planned because I injured my ankle. Luckily, it was not serious and I’m already back to training. I’m leaving in the next couple of days: next step, China!

Alex

The 15^th edition of the annual golf tournament for the Quebec City Ronald McDonald House took place yesterday at the Royal Québec Golf Club. Thanks to the generosity of the participants, $45,000 was raised. It’s the largest amount raised to date. It’s a good sign for next year! The event was very successful, and it’s the families and kids staying at the Quebec City Ronald McDonald House who will be able to benefit from it.

In the world of sports, the Montreal Alouettes have launched their season. The next home game is Thursday, July 22 at 7:30 pm at Percival Molson Stadium. Good luck to the 2009 champions of the Grey Cup and enjoy the season!

On my end, I’m in Europe for training camps and competitions, followed by a trip to China at in August. Talk to you soon!

Alex

The FIFA World Cup is in full swing! Soccer fans are totally into it and they are cheering proudly for their country. I like soccer but unfortunately, I haven’t had time to watch as much as I would like since I’ve got competitions coming soon and my training schedule is busy.

I’m leaving pretty soon for Europe compete in some FINA Grand Prix competitions. I’m excited and can’t wait to dive. Then, the National team and I will be mostly out of the country until the Commonwealth Games but I will keep you posted on the latest news.

Have a great long weekend and good luck for the ones who are moving!

Alex

It feels good to have nice weather, summer has arrived! I’m going to have a busy schedule this summer. The Canadian team and I are leaving for Saskatoon in the next couple of days for the Summer National Championships. Then, we’re heading to Europe for a few competitions. Then, in October, I’m flying for New Delhi in India to compete at the Commonwealth Games. It’s going to be my first time in India and can’t wait to discover this country and its culture. Between these two trips, I will probably head to China for more competitions.

Not too far away from us will be the Jeux du Québec which will start soon in Gatineau. Hundreds of athletes will compete against one another and give it their all. Jeux du Québec bring back good memories since it’s where it all started for me. It’s an incredible experience for young athletes. I invite you to cheer for them!

Alex

I just came back from China. I am a bit disappointed in my result at the 3-metre, especially because I was in a position to win a medal. But I missed my last dive. However, I am happy about the resultants Ruben and I had at the 3-metre springboard. We finished in 4^th. All this motivates me even more for the next competition!

This weekend, it’s the F1 Montreal Grand Prix. Always a fun-packed weekend with celebrations all over downtown. I hope you’ll be able to enjoy!

Talk soon,

Alex

I have been in China since last week. I had a training camp with my teammates and today it’s the start of the FINA World Cup competition. It’s always a huge competition, but I feel ready!

I have a lot of competitions coming in the next weeks and months. My schedule will be crazy, but that’s what I like! Competitions are a real source of motivation for me, I always want to push myself further.

Talk to you soon!

Alex