Pierre-Luc Poulin is preparing for the national trials in May after taking a break post-Olympics. He opted out of training camps in California, instead choosing a Florida camp. With new coach Paul Wycherley at the helm, Poulin remains hopeful about qualifying for the world championships, emphasizing his commitment to training seriously. As he navigates a pivotal stage in his career, he balances his passion for kayaking with personal goals, including starting a family.
Pierre-Luc Poulin’s Journey to the World Championships
Despite opting out of training with his teammates in California, Pierre-Luc Poulin is gearing up for the first national trials in May, taking place in Montreal. The Canadian canoe-kayak athlete remains optimistic about his chances of securing a spot at the world championships.
After a well-deserved break following his participation in the Paris Olympic Games, Poulin wanted to refresh himself both mentally and physically, while also awaiting the announcement of the new coach for the Canadian kayak team before committing to another Olympic cycle.
A New Era with Coach Paul Wycherley
Canoe Kayak Canada (CKC) has recently appointed British coach Paul Wycherley, a former kayaker who sought to qualify for the London 2012 Games. While Wycherley may lack extensive coaching experience, Poulin is keen to give him a fair shot. “I truly believe CKC made the best choice possible,” he stated. “I reached out to him to express my congratulations and eagerly anticipate our discussions. Just as Fred [Frédéric Jobin] was given a chance despite limited experience, I trust that Paul will prove to be an excellent coach.”
Poulin has chosen not to attend the two lengthy training camps in California. Instead, he accepted an offer from Canoe Kayak Quebec to take his boat to Florida for a two-week camp. “While my choice may not align with the Canadian team’s preference for collective training, it was the only sensible option for me this early in the Olympic cycle,” he explained. “I was aware that the team boat selection would occur in California.” He is looking forward to his time in Florida, stating, “I will create lasting memories, and it will be a positive experience.” He plans to leave in March, excited to resume his training and get back in shape.
Many fellow Canadian athletes have made similar decisions and will also not be attending the California camps.
Preparing for National Trials
After returning from Florida, Poulin will train at the National Center located in the Olympic Basin of Notre-Dame Island to prepare for the national trials scheduled for May 2 and 3. “I might not be as prepared as I was last year, but I intend to compete seriously. I won’t just show up for a final lap before retirement; I have everything to prove,” he remarked. To maintain his Sport Canada certification, he must finish in the top 8 at the world championships.
“I won’t underestimate the trials, and I believe I have what it takes to qualify,” Poulin stated confidently. “I have the drive to train hard at home, and once I return from Florida, I will be on the water for an entire month to finalize my preparations.” While his immediate goal is to qualify for the world championships, Poulin is taking a measured approach, focusing on each year as it comes. The talented kayaker from Lac-Beauport is at a crossroads, stating, “At 30, I’ve participated in two Olympics and seven world championships. I still have a passion for my sport, but I also recognize that my career is at a pivotal point.” He is content with the idea of retiring or continuing without the weight of pressure, emphasizing, “If I continue, it will be for enjoyment and performance.”
Poulin concluded, “I can’t train like I did at 21 when kayaking was my sole focus. I have a fulfilling job that I love, and now it’s time to put in the effort to start a family.”