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- calendar_today October 27, 2026
Veteran Powerlifter Triumphs in Poland
Wayne Cormier, a 63-year-old powerlifter from Swift Current, Saskatchewan, reached a career milestone by winning his first world championship gold medal at the GPC World Championships in Poland. This achievement comes after over five decades dedicated to the sport of powerlifting and a recent health setback that nearly ended his career.
Overcoming Health Challenges to Pursue Gold
Cormier faced significant hurdles leading up to the competition, most notably surviving a heart attack in May. Despite medical concerns and advice from doctors to reconsider his involvement in the sport, he made the decision to compete in Poland. This marked his fifth appearance at the world championships.
Medal Haul and New Records
At the championships, Cormier secured three gold medals in the male masters 125kg category: equipped powerlifting, raw powerlifting, and equipped bench press. He also added a bronze medal in the raw bench press category. In addition to his medal count, Cormier set new Canadian records for both the raw bench press and equipped bench press in his division, further solidifying his place in Canadian powerlifting history.
Persistence Pays Off After Decades
Cormier described his pursuit of a world gold medal as an obsession lasting more than 50 years. His previous best finish at the world championships was a bronze nearly three decades ago. Reflecting on his victory, Cormier shared, "It's been a flood of emotions," noting the magnitude of memories and experiences that led to his success.
Support From Training Team
Cormier's journey to the championship was supported by a dedicated training team, including nutritionist Cassandra Crozier and former world champion Lee Powell from Regina. Crozier remarked on his persistence: "He put in the hours, he pushed through the setbacks, and he achieved a lifelong goal. He’s an inspiration to all of us in the sport." Powell, who stayed in touch with Cormier throughout the competition, noted, "He did what he went there to accomplish. He had a good week and the main thing is he's coming back home in one piece."
Philosophy and Advice for Other Athletes
Despite a few injuries at the world championship, Cormier’s motivation remained unshaken. He revealed he considered quitting after his heart attack during a family discussion, but ultimately decided to persevere. To athletes in similar situations, he emphasized the importance of balanced powerlifting training and recovery: "What you do away from the sport becomes as important as what you do in it. You have to lift heavy weights, but the emphasis on recuperation is so much more important."
Future Plans Remain Uncertain
Following his gold-winning performance, Cormier has yet to decide whether he will defend his title at next year’s world championship in Hungary. While encouraged by his peers not to retire, he said, "If I was pressured for whatever reason to make an answer I would say, nope, not going to retire. But since I'm not being pressured, the answer to the question is I don't know."
A Lasting Sense of Accomplishment
After four previous attempts where he fell short of the world title, Cormier expressed that the sensation of winning gold while draped in the Canadian flag is an unforgettable memory. "It took me 50 years to get to that moment. The feeling is one that I'll never forget. I hope I carry this feeling of accomplishment for the rest of my life."
Source: cbc.ca.
