How does professional alpine skier Valérie Grenier start her day? With 2 eggs, of course!

With the Pan Am Games kicking off in Toronto this week, it’s an opportune time to think of our Canadian athletes and all of the hard work and dedication they put into their sport and achieving their goals.

I was lucky enough to have the opportunity to interview Canadian professional alpine skier Valérie Grenier recently. 19 year-old Valérie has already begun to make a name for herself on the international circuit. She claimed 3rd place at the World Junior Championships in Giant Slalom, and as a fierce and dedicated athlete, she is well on her way to high achievements at the World Cup, World Championship and Olympic Games. Valérie was kind enough to take the time to discuss with me her achievements, the advice she has for young people starting off in a new sport or activity, and of course, eggs! You can find my whole interview with Valérie below.

You’ve already started to make a name for yourself on the international circuit and are well on your way to podium performances at the World Cup, World Championship and Olympic Games. According to Alpine Canada you’re a contender for both the 2018 and 2022 Olympics; how does this make you feel?

Knowing that Alpine Canada believes I can represent them well at the next Olympics makes me feel extremely happy. This has always been my dream, and it’s starting to feel more and more within my reach.

You grew up on an egg farm, how has this impacted you in life, and sport?

Growing up on an egg farm has showed me how hard work is important to reach your goal. Work on the farm is hard but gratifying. Also, there will be setbacks but you can never give up. This is important in life, and in sports.

You recently spoke with students at your childhood elementary school L’École élémentaire catholique Saint-Isidore. What did it feel like talking to young students about working hard to achieve goals?

Getting to be back at my old elementary school brought back so many great memories! Talking to young students about hard work was very rewarding but it’s still really surreal. Being one of their role models and motivating them to reach their dreams was truly very special.

What would be the best piece of advice you have for kids starting out in a sport or activity today?

The advice I have for kids is to always do the best they can, in any activity they are participating in, all the while having as much fun as possible! Hard work does pay off–sooner or later!

Being a professional athlete, training is obviously a major part of your life. How is your diet tied to this, and what food choices do you make to help you get the most out of your workouts?

I try to have a well-balanced diet to make sure I am getting all the energy I need to perform at a high level, meaning I eat a lot of lean protein, good fats and some carbohydrates. I always start my morning off with 2 eggs because they are the best, packed with 6 grams of high-quality protein and 14 important nutrients. They’re simple, delicious and nutritious and they help keep me energized throughout the day.

What’s your favourite way to eat eggs?

My favourite way to eat eggs is in an omelette, with lots of veggies and cheese!

I really enjoyed spending time with Valérie. I know myself, and the Egg Farmers of Canada team will be watching her career closely and cheering her on!

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