December 15/22 10:25 am - Raphael Gagne Hired as Quebec MTB Coach

Posted by Editoress on 12/15/22
 

Mountain bike Olympian Raphaël Gagné has been hired as the provincial mountain bike coach for Quebec, the FQSC announced this week. FQSC Dierctor General Louis Barbeau, believes he is a great asset for the development of the next generation in mountain biking.

2015 Pan Am Champion

"We are delighted to be able to count on a former Olympian who has made his mark at the highest level in mountain biking. We are of the opinion that his experience, his in-depth knowledge of the technical and tactical aspect of the discipline as well as his communication skills will be able to help the next generation progress to the highest peak," explained Barbeau.

Based in the Quebec City region, Raphaël Gagné wanted to get involved with the Federation in order to give back to his sport, as he was able to benefit from the various programs of the Quebec team when he was an athlete. His desire to share his experiences with young people and help them progress to the highest level led him to accept the role of coach of the Quebec team.

2016 Olympic Games

"I'm really happy to take up my post as coach of Team Quebec. We are fortunate to count on super athletes, development clubs and coaches in several regions of Quebec and I am very enthusiastic to have the chance to work with them for the development of the generation of today and tomorrow. I would like to thank the FQSC for their confidence in this new challenge that I am taking on with joy," said Gagné.

Gagné retired from competition in 2021. He has taken advantage of the last few months to continue his journey as a mountain bike coach, and holds a bachelor's degree in teaching physical education. As an athlete, Raphael had a brilliant career. In 2004, he was part of the Canadian delegation that won the world title in the Team Relay race at the Mountain Bike World Championships in Les Gets, France. In 2015, he became the national champion in addition to winning the gold medal at the Pan American Games in Toronto. A few months later, he was selected to the Canadian team for the 2016 Rio Olympics, where he finished 40th. In 2019, he became the Pan American Champion at Aguascalientes, Mexico.