You’ll be familiar with their faces; some of you see them every weekend in the four corners of Quebec, and some of you have been seeing them for years. Always there to ensure your safety, often present to remind you of the rules at pre-race meetings and sometimes, to your dismay, also to enforce the rules and impose (very few) penalties, Triathlon Québec officials play a major role in the running of events. Through this series of portraits, we’d like to introduce you to the men and women behind the whistle. Who knows, it might even inspire you to join the team!

At the start of this summer, we’re pleased to spotlight Marylène Prince, triathlete and official (NTO) for Triathlon Québec for eight years now.

Triathlon Québec : Hello Marylène, could you start by introducing yourself?

Marylène Prince : I love life and people. By day, I’m an insurance broker. In real life, I’m a triathlete, a coach, a music lover, an official, a bit of an artist in my spare time, and I have a secret passion for mini-putt and ice cream.

Triathlon Québec: How long have you been an official with Triathlon Québec?

Marylène Prince : I started my training in 2013. It’s now been 3 years since I obtained the NTO level, which allows me to take part in events at all levels in Canada. So far, I’ve had the chance to officiate at every level Quebec has to offer. I’ve been able to tie running shoes at school triathlons, explain to some of you that it’s easier to put on a jersey before a helmet at regional events, announce to your dismay that wetsuits won’t be allowed at international events, and of course, justify on video a penalty given to an Olympian at a World Series event.

Triathlon Québec: Can you tell us a little more about what inspired you to become a triathlon official?

Marylène Prince: Amateur sport needs the support of its community to exist and progress. So, in my own way, I’m participating in the advancement of the sport and the achievement of everyone’s goals, big and small.

Triathlon Québec: After all these years, what motivates you to be an official every weekend?

Marylène Prince: Um, I don’t understand why you’re asking me this question… Up at 4:00 in the morning, we slather on the sun cream, get out our notes, hook up our radio and off we go for a long day. Sun, rain, wind, hail and snow, here we are, long after the last participant has crossed the finish line. It’s the smiles and tears at the finish line that motivate me every weekend when the clock strikes. That, and the camaraderie and extraordinary human beings who proudly wear the green cap that keeps me up so late without thinking about how soon I’ll have to get up.

Triathlon Québec: What qualities do you think make a good Triathlon Québec official?

Marylène Prince: Without a doubt, resourcefulness. There’s a lot going on at the same time during a triathlon. Not always good things. You have to make decisions and act quickly so that, from the participant’s point of view, everything runs smoothly. You also have to be empathetic and open to others.

Triathlon Québec: As someone who has travelled the length and breadth of la belle province, what’s your favourite triathlon event?

Marylène Prince: I haven’t taken part in any events outside Canada to date. However, I’m convinced that our events are second to none. My favourite event is the Trimemphré Magog. It’s a triathlon that’s international in scope, yet has room for everyone. Whether you’re a beginner, a promising young athlete or a Paralympian, the level of welcome and recognition is the same.

Triathlon Québec: Can you give us one or more reasons for becoming a triathlon official?

Marylène Prince: The people, of course! It’s a wonderful human experience that I hope everyone will discover.

Triathlon Québec: With all these events under your belt, you must have a little anecdote to share with us?

Marylène Prince : I’m deliberately keeping the suspense alive. Rather than reading them, I invite you to come and experience them with us by joining our wonderful team!

Triathlon Québec: Thank you, Marylène, for this interview and for your involvement in Quebec’s triathlon family! See you this summer at our partner events!