NAME : Luce Leclerc
AGE : 44 years
ENTREPRISE : Chief Electoral Officer of Quebec
COMPANY CHALLENGE EXPERIENCE : Employees of my company participated for the third consecutive year this year. I am on my second participation.
Why did you decide to take part in the Business Challenge? Two years ago, I decided to take control of my life and signed up for the Nautilus plus in Ste-Foy. With the help of a nutritionist and a personal trainer, I managed to lose 100 lbs. The more the lost pounds accumulated, the more energy I had. When my company registered again for the Corporate Challenge. I did not hesitate for a moment to register myself. I had heard so many positive comments about the first participation from my colleagues that I too wanted to be there. And I was not disappointed. The first year, still in the process of losing weight and with crow's feet tendonitis, I did a 5 km walk that I managed in 55 minutes. This year, I completed a 10 km run in 1 hour 09 minutes and 23 seconds. A feat for me, because since my adolescence running has always been difficult due to repeated periostitis. During the course people encourage and help each other it's so beautiful to see moreover I remember the pride felt when I received the medal at the end of my course.
Were you active before participating? As a teenager, I was very active and was even in the sports program in secondary 5. But the recurrent shin splints discouraged me and I had a long period of my adult life where I been totally sedentary.
What is the main positive aspect related to the lived experience at the personal level? The main positive aspect that I take away from my participation in the Défi Entreprise is that I know today that I can do anything if I want to. I understood that my spirit is stronger than anything. I also have more self-confidence and there are no words to express what it feels like to achieve something you thought was impossible.
What is the main positive aspect in relation to the experience lived at the level of the company? Following the company's participation, several employees have adopted running as a way of life. Several of my co-workers have taken part in other races and during lunchtime several co-workers train. In addition, the Corporate Challenge is a great showcase to get to know our co-workers that we are perhaps less fortunate to meet on a daily basis.
What would you say to a company that is hesitant to participate? The participation of our company to collaborate to give a sporting and friendly spirit between the employees. In addition, several colleagues have taken charge.
