5 Questions for Chantal Petitclerc

5 Questions for Chantal
by Kevin Newman

K.N: How does the 5th Gold Medal feel different from the
1st?

C.P: The 5th Gold Medal was the absolute dream come true.
Before that, it was just adrenaline and pressure building up,
and me getting closer to that big goal I had, one gold medal at a
time. To be honest, I was not able to fully appreciate the medals
until I got that last one;the fifth. It was the best feeling of my
life—pure joy, pride and I felt so powerful knowing that I made
it happen!

K.N: Chantal Petitclerc seems to be in a lifelong
competition with Chantal Petitclerc. Why won’t you give
her a break?

C.P: Maybe she doesn’t want a break! Maybe she loves
and feeds on adrenaline and competition! I love to be challenged
by others, but the biggest challenges are the ones when you face
yourself—your own strengths and weaknesses, and win!

K.N: How long does it take most people not to see the wheelchair?

C.P: It depends on the person, and it is certainly much better than it was
20 years ago. But I am quickly becoming discriminating toward
people who see the wheelchair more than the person. I have no
time for them!

K.N: If I could take you for a post-race pig out,
what would you order?

C.P: It goes like this. A big poutine from La Paryse, typically quebecois,
or a six-course very decadent meal with wine at The Toqué, home of
the chef Normand Laprise, with a priority of Foie Gras! Neither are part
of my nutritional plan but after a great race when I feel I really deserve it,
this is where you will find me.

K.N: You inspire so many people. Who inspires you and why?

C.P: Many people inspire me, some famous and some not so famous.
Two are French philosopher Simone de Beauvoir, Tchecz marathon
legend Emile Zatopek. People that inspire me live their lives with
passion and conviction, without compromise. I try to do the same.