The Sainte‑Justine Winter Triathlon celebrated its 20th anniversary last February, and the community responded with unprecedented enthusiasm to mark the occasion, surpassing the event’s ambitious fundraising goal of $1 million. In all, participants raised a record-breaking $1,015,026. Over the past two decades, it has given more than $12 million to Sainte‑Justine to support research, clinical teams, and families throughout Quebec.

A simple idea with extraordinary impact

A woman smiles while holding a trophy.
The unwavering dedication of Catherine Sharp, co-founder of the Winter Triathlon, was recognized during the event. © Jimmy Hamelin

It all began in 2006, when dedicated philanthropist Catherine Sharp came up with a simple idea: Why not play in the snow like children, for children?

We wanted to do something simple, yet meaningful. We wanted the cause to be the driving force behind the event. The Winter Triathlon was born from this idea. It’s been going for 20 years and enthusiasm for the event is stronger than ever. It’s so inspiring!
Catherine Sharp Winter Triathlon co-founder and honorary co-chair

The Winter Triathlon quickly became a popular event with the business community, who continue to show up for the cause year after year. What started in 2006 was more than a friendly competition: it sparked a lasting collective commitment.

A movement built over time

Pierre Boivin, philanthropist emeritus at the Foundation and one of the Winter Triathlon’s earliest partners, has witnessed this transformation first-hand over the years.

I’ve attended almost every edition since the beginning, and what still strikes me is that the Triathlon is never just a simple event. Participants and the business community have come to understand something essential: philanthropy is not a sprint. It is a deep and lasting commitment that is built and renewed over time.
Pierre Boivin Philanthropist and founder of the Défi Pierre Boivin

His observations are backed by a rich history of 20 editions of the Triathlon, thousands of participants, and a record amount raised during a milestone anniversary.

Three people smile at the camera.
Every year, Pierre Boivin sponsors the Défi Pierre Boivin, which recognizes the team that raises the most funds. © Jimmy Hamelin

Lara, the face of hope fulfilled

A little girl wearing a pink helmet is held in a woman’s arms.
After suffering a stroke, Lara is now able to walk, laugh, and play thanks to the medical teams at Sainte‑Justine. © Jimmy Hamelin

To champion the cause, Lara’s family agreed to take centre stage at the event. After having a stroke at 9 months old, Lara can now walk, laugh, and play thanks to the care teams at Sainte‑Justine. Although she still has some aftereffects, her incredible recovery is the result of decades of medical knowledge and research made possible by the generosity of donors like you.

When Lara’s life was hanging by a thread, we clung to the hope that one day she would become an ambassador for the Winter Triathlon. Thanks to Sainte‑Justine and to all of you who support the hospital, our hope became reality. On behalf of our entire family, thank you!
Virginie Mother of Lara, age 2, ambassador for the 20th Winter Triathlon
A woman falls while cross-country skiing.
Since 2006, participants have had a blast while skating, running, and skiing to support the children and families of Sainte‑Justine. © Jimmy Hamelin
A large group looks at the camera outdoors in winter.
Over the past 20 years, the Winter Triathlon has raised more than $12 million to advance research and improve care. © Jimmy Hamelin