Name: Monique Sullivan
CAN Fund Recipient Since: 2015
Sport: Track Cycling
Best Result:
6th in the Keirin at the 2012 London Olympics
3x 2015 Pan Am Games Gold Medalist
Hometown: Calgary, AB
On The National Team Since: 2008
How does being a CAN Fund Recipient make a difference for you?
Two weeks ago I missed a connection in South America flying home from a World Cup and had a 24hr layover. Having the support of CAN Fund meant that I could book a hotel room and be safe and comfortable for the night. This is just one example but CAN Fund is a tangible and real support for Canadian athletes!
How did you get involved in your sport?
I feel very lucky to have found cycling as a Canadian athlete because the sport is still pretty small in Canada. I lucked out because my friend’s little sister was in a cycling program and my mom needed something for me to do. I fell in love on the first day!
Who is your hero and why?
My Dad. All his life people told him what he couldn’t do and all his life he proved them wrong.
What does sport mean to you?
The answer to this question changes pretty often but right now sport is a platform to really challenge myself to be my best self. Some days it’s just pure joy to be out on my bike and some days it feels like a lot of work, but there have been so many cool opportunities to challenge myself and learn along the way.
What is a healthy snack you eat before or after training sessions?
I really love dates stuffed with peanut butter. So delicious!
Do you have a favourite recipe, what is it?
My favourite smoothie right now is super simple: a ripe banana, juice of ½ a lemon, two big handfuls of spinach and some water.
What is the greatest advice a coach has ever given you?
“Trust yourself. You know yourself better than anyone else.” Richard Wooles- former coach
What advice would you give to young kids or teenagers about following their dreams?
HAVE FUN. When I was a teenager and started to get serious about bike racing I thought everything had to be serious and hard and I almost burnt myself out of the sport. When I remember to enjoy the process, I am able to push myself harder in training. I recover better, and I’m happier! Just because you’re working hard doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy it!
If you weren’t a Canadian athlete you would be…?
I’m still trying to figure this out! An engineer or a school teacher.
What are you favourite places in the world you have visited?
The Rockies. Nothing beats the Canadian Rockies!!
What three items do you take with you on every road trip?
A book, snacks, and a notebook.
What are your hobbies?
I love crafty things like knitting and sewing and I love to read
What is the most played song on your ipod?
My “6 breaths per minute” meditation beats
What is your favourite book?
Currently reading Cloud Atlas and it is excellent so far!
What is your favourite tv series?
I have really enjoyed Murdoch Mysteries lately
Twitter: mmj_sullivan
Website: www.moniquesullivan.wordpress.com
Instagram: mmj_sullivan
