JOANNIE ROCHETTE

Six-time Canadian Champion, World Silver medalist and Olympic Bronze medalist Joannie Rochette has long been known for her powerful, dynamic and lyrical skating. Her astounding presence on the ice immediately captures your attention.

At 2010 Vancouver Olympic Winter Games, Rochette inspired millions with her ability to overcome adversity and skate just two days after her mother had died of a sudden heart attack. Rochette delivered two solid performances to take home the Bronze medal. In doing so she became the first Canadian ladies competitor to stand on the Olympic medal podium in 22 years.

As the Olympics concluded, Rochette was named co-recipient of the Vancouver 2010 Terry Fox Award. This award honored athletes who are the epitome of determination in motion, who pushed on no matter what the pain or obstacles in their path. Rochette’s determination was also honoured by the Canadian Olympic Committee when she was elected Canada’s flag bearer for the Closing Ceremonies.

Rochette has shown a commitment to humanitarian causes, traveling to Peru last June with World Vision Canada, a charity that helps sponsor disadvantaged children throughout the world.

Away from skating, Rochette continues to pursue formal education at the College Andre-Grasset in Montreal, where she is studying natural and health sciences. She may continue to study science or shift her focus to business.

Other off-ice interests include jumping trampoline, ballet, yoga, roller blading, reading, dancing and music.