Simon Whitfield
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Vital Statistics
| Born | 5/16/1975 |
| Height | 177cm |
| Birthplace | Kingston, Ontario |
| Hometown | Victoria, British Columbia |
| Sport | Triathlon |
Biography
4x Olympian, Olympic Gold & Silver Medalist, 12x Canadian Champion
Simon is a father, adventurer, businessman, community builder, mentor and one of Canada’s most accomplished and decorated athletes.
Simon fulfilled his childhood dream of competing in the Olympics when he dove into the Sydney Harbour on September 17, 2000 but inspired a nation, as he passed 24 competitors in the final 10km run en route to winning the inaugural men’s Olympic triathlon gold medal.
His profound ability to react and respond, never giving up, was on full display again at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. He fought to remain with the lead pack during the final kilometres of the run. After many had written him off, Simon was able to dig deep and find that extra gear, launching an all-out sprint finish to earn a second Olympic medal, this time silver.
Simon’s triathlon career includes 14 World Cup wins and 12 Canadian championships. He’s been inducted into the Canadian Triathlon Hall of Fame and the International Triathlon Union Hall of Fame. During his fourth consecutive appearance at the Olympics, in London, Simon had the honour of being Canada’s flag bearer for the opening ceremonies.
Since retiring in 2012, Simon has embarked on a series of business ventures. Most recently he co-founded Relentless Pursuit Partners, an investment and consulting firm committed to the development of technologies and products that optimize health and wellness.
Simon has been involved with a variety of a non-profit organizations; currently he is an ambassador for both the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation and KidSport. Always one to share his experience and knowledge with others, Simon has mentored dozens of athletes over the year and is a current ambassador for CIBC Team’s Next program. Most of all, Simon enjoys nothing more than talking to children about their own big dreams, whatever they may be.
Simon’s journey exemplifies how Olympic-size dreams can be realized through hard work and the relentless pursuit of excellence.
Accomplishments
Personal
Family:
Simon is the proud father of two daughters.
Getting into the Sport:
At the age of 12, Simon competed in his first Kids of Steel triathlon at Shabot Lake, Ontario. While attending school in Australia, Simon was a star runner and began training for triathlons.
Outside Interests:
Simon is an avid paddle boarder and SUP (Standup Paddle Board) racer.
Charitable Work:
Simon supports many charities including the Canadian Men’s Health Foundation and its Don’t Change Much Campaign. He is an active volunteer for KidSport Canada, Power2Be and Goodlife Fitness Kids Foundation. He spends many afternoons visiting schools to inspire young people not to be afraid of failing, to pursue their dreams and be a world champion in their own.
Mentor to Young Athletes:
Through the CIBC Team Next Program, Simon works with young athletes.
Hononary Doctorate Recipient:
In 2016, Simon was bestowed an Honorary Doctorate by the University of Guelph for contributions made to the Canadian community through his philanthropic and mentorship work.