Prepare for an extraordinary episode filled with passion, resilience, and triumph as we welcome our exceptional guest, Philippe Marquis, an Olympic athlete and coach. Philippe’s story is a testament to the power of determination and the pursuit of excellence.
Philippe is a two-time Canadian Olympian (2014, 2018) in freestyle/mogul skiing, with an impressive career spanning over twelve years on the Canadian team.
As our first-ever Olympic athlete and coach on our Podcast, Philippe’s journey from his early aspirations as a young skier to becoming an Olympic athlete has been nothing short of remarkable.
Despite facing numerous challenges, including multiple injuries, Philippe’s exceptional talent and determination have propelled him to heights. Alongside his athletic pursuits, he has also developed a keen interest in the impact of climate change on sports, particularly in the mountains he calls home.
This newfound passion led Philippe to join athlete advocacy groups and actively participate in organisations such as Protect Our Winters Canada and EcoAthletes, where he works to raise awareness and promote sustainability in sports. Additionally, Philippe is a Canadian Olympic Committee Athletes’ Commission member, further emphasising his dedication to positively impacting on and off the slopes.
Throughout our conversation, we explored the profound impact of climate change on the world of sports and the influential role of athlete activism in driving sustainability.
Philippe shared his insights on the practical challenges athletes face in the wake of climate change and the inspiring initiatives athletes undertake to raise awareness and enact positive change. We discussed the crucial role of fans in boosting sustainable practices within the sports industry and the challenges and opportunities faced by athletes and teams in addressing the environmental impact and navigating governing restrictions.
Moreover, Philippe highlighted the involvement of fossil fuel companies in the sports industry. He emphasised the potential for a more sustainable future. He expressed his admiration for Protect Our Winters, an organisation he is a part of, which advocates for sustainability at the government and corporate levels.
Philippe underscored the power of passionate individuals coming together to protect the environment and secure the future of sports.