Ontario Weightlifting Association
News
Call Out: Photographer
October 13, 2022
When: Ontario Championships, November 12-13, 2022
Where: Variety Village, 3701 Danforth Avenue, Scarborough
We are looking for:
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3-5 photos per athlete including warm up area and competition stage or at minimum 15-20 photos per session
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15-20 of photos of Technical Officials, overall Field of Play and competition venue
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Three (3) 30-60 second video compilations
Compensation: $300 if it's a one-day competition OR $500 for two days (based on athlete registrations)
Contact info@onweightlifting.ca by November 1, 2022. Selected photographer will be notified on November 4th.
Lifetime Achievement Award: 25-Year Club Recipients
September 27, 2022
Congratulations to long standing members Akos and Steven Sandor!
Awards will be presented at the Ontario Championships on Novmeber 12, 2022 at Variety Village.
Job Posting: Part-time Administrator (Contract)
August 31, 2022
The Ontario Weightlifting Association is looking for one candidate to fulfill our Administrator position.
Position: Part-time contract
Duties and responsibilities:
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Administrative duties and management of day-to-day operations of the organization, supporting the Executive Board and Competition Administrator, when applicable
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Managing membership registration system: reviewing individual and club memberships, mailing club certificates, maintaining club list
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Coordinating and attending monthly Executive Board and Annual meetings and preparing minutes
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Website maintenance and coordinating social media posts with Social Media Administrators
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Assisting with policy writing, editing and updating
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Assisting with grant applications, reporting and management
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Overseeing third-party online services (e.g. PayPal, Square, WePay, MailChimp)
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Financial responsibilities: payout reconciliation reports, bank deposits, cheque requisitions
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Assisting Quest for Gold committee with paperwork and communication
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Correspondence with membership, insurance, Ministry of Tourism, Culture & Sport, WCH and other sports-related organizations for non-competition-related information
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Check OWA mailbox (bi-weekly)
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Aid where needed as directed by the President
Qualifications:
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Strong communication, interpersonal, time management and organizational skills
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Experience developing internal processes and filing systems
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Proficient in Microsoft Office, with aptitude to learn new software and systems
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Olympic Weightlifting experience is an asset, but not necessary
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Ability to work with minimum supervision
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The successful applicant will be required to provide a current Vulnerable Sector Police Reference Check
Email your resume to info@onweightlifting.ca by Wednesday September 14, 2022.
Lifetime Achievement Award - Accepting Nominations!
August 30, 2022
The Ontario Weightlifting Association Lifetime Achievement Award was established in order to recognize the contribution of longstanding OWA members. The award is presented to all eligible members for their ongoing dedication and continued commitment to the sport of weightlifting and the advancement of the Ontario Weightlifting Association. The Lifetime Achievement Award consists of both the 25-Year Club and the 35-Year Club and is presented annually at the Ontario Championships.
The OWA is now accepting nominations to the 25-Year Club and 35-Year-Club. Eligible members normally must be nominated 60 days prior to Ontario Championships, either by an OWA member/club or by self-nominating. Nominations consist of an email/letter stating the candidate’s name, club, first year of OWA membership and a brief history of contribution.
Please send any nominations to the Executive Board c/o Administrator for verification and approval by September 13, 2022.
2021-2022 Quest for Gold Ontario Card
August 9, 2022
Presenting the FINAL list of Quest for Gold carded athletes:
Full Card:
Noah Santavy
Shania Bedward
Half Card:
Feras Sharaf-Eldin
Naomie Lusignan
Xavier Lusignan
Alana Santavy
Ontario Athletes/Members at the Pan Am Games
July 26, 2022
Recognizing athletes, coaches and officials from Ontario who are representing Canada at the Pan Am Championships in Bogota, Colombia. Best of luck!
Athletes
Noah Santavy
Hannah Gula
Shania Bedward
Coaches
Hani Kanama
Technical Officials
Linda Earnshaw
Para Weightlifting Community Survey
July 20, 2022
Nalani Perry, Director of the Advancement of Para Weightlifting for the Canadian Masters Weightlifting Federation (CMWFHCM), is promoting the inclusion of adaptive athletes as para weightlifters with the Provincial Weightlifting Associations, Weightlifting Canada Haltérophilie, the International Masters Weightlifting Federation and the Pan American Masters Weightlifting Federation. The aim is to promote the sport of para weightlifting with the principles of inclusion of adaptive athletes within the Canadian and International Weightlifting community.
The survey below was developed to better understand the needs of para 'olympic-style' weightlifting in Canada. This process will provide stakeholders and the community the chance to encourage the future trajectory of para weightlifting (olympic-style weightlifting for adaptive athletes).
Complete the survey in either English or French.
Information derived from the survey will be compiled and provided to the Provincial Weightlifting Associations, Weightlifting Canada Haltérophilie and the community at large.
Community Sports Club Funding
July 16, 2022
This is a follow up from our earlier announcement regarding extra funding we received from the Ontario Government to support community sports clubs that were impacted by COVID-19. Current member clubs or those that registered as a club between April 1, 2020 to March 31, 2022 (2020-2021 and 2021-2022 seasons) may be eligible for funding.
In order to be considered, clubs MUST meet the following criteria:
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Collect and file membership incomes with the CRA as a registered business, sole proprietor, or registered non-profit.
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Rent, lease, own, or mortgage their training space and operate from a location designated by their city as commercial, not residential.
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Have not received any community sports club funding from any other provincial sports organization.
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Have increased operating costs directly related to the pandemic.
Clubs must complete the COMMUNITY SPORTS CLUB FUNDING FORM by Monday July 25, 2022. Total funding of over $50,000 will be divided amongst member clubs.
Canadian Masters Championship Team Ontario
July 3, 2022
Wishing Team Ontario the best of luck at the Canadian Masters Weightlifting Championships, hosted by Canadian Masters Weightlifting Federation on July 9-10, 2022.
Athletes
Chris Barkey
Charity Bartz
Liisa Burk
Roland Chretien
Sarah Condon
William Condon
Jamie Crane
Dave Desroches
Dave Dessureault
Amarjit Dosanjh
Iain Douglas
John Florento
Thorin Gault
Ken Gorman
Sylvie Guénette
Jillian Halligan
Heather Harvey
Doris Hellenbart
Martene Herbert
Vern Hibbard
Danielle Holdsworth
Stepan Hroupa
Joanne Jeffrey
Virginia Ki
Krystal Lavechia
Gary Lewis
Samantha Maxwell
Amy McGrath
Sara O'Neill
Judy Quinn
Sarah Reid
Mohan Sandhu
Christopher Smith
David Stewart
Martin Tempelaar
Craig Vandeweghe
Jess Verwey
Cory Walt
Madeleine Waterfield
Congratulations, Naomie!
June 15, 2022
Congratulations to Naomie Lusignan and coach Justin Spencer at the IWF Youth World Championships in Leon, Mexico. Naomie competed in the 71kg, achieving an 84kg snatch and 101kg clean and jerk
Call Out: Social Media Administrator - OWA Club Challenge (Paid position)
June 9 , 2022
The OWA is seeking for an administrator to assist with club challenges and promoting on social media.
Description: To communicate with OWA members regarding club challenges (quarterly), and help with time-sensitive administrative tasks. The successful candidate will be paid 10% of total entries.
Term: Until March 31, 2023
Key responsibilities:
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Post on website, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter updates regarding competition info/news
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Provide coverage of OWA athletes competing during OWA Club Challenge periods (e.g. re-share athletes’ videos and stories and photos, post results)
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Respond to direct/private messages on the Dotmar/Eleiko Instagram page
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Assist in compiling results (must be proficient in Excel)
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Monitor accounts for comments and handle comments that violate OWA policy
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In collaboration with the Social Media Administrators and OWA Administrators
Requirement:
Must be from Ontario and willing to become a member with the Ontario Weightlifting Association. Minimum volunteer membership required. See Membership Policy.
Email your interest, and include any related experience, to OWA Administrator by Thursday June 16, 2022.
Canadian Junior Championships Team Ontario
May 26, 2022
Wishing Team Ontario the best of luck at the Canadian Junior Weightlifting Championships, hosted by Fédération d’haltérophilie du Québec on June 4-5, 2022.
Athletes
Connor Bazilsky
Natalie Cerna
Ruthie Chouinor
Asher Edgson
Feras Sharaf Eldin
Naza Grant
Ashton Jolley
Cassandra Karagounis
Griffin Lamarche
Naomie Lusignan
Xavier Lusignan
Kayla Martindale
Chloe Parsons
Marlowe Robinson
Molly Sharman
Samuel Steer
Kassidy Walsh
Declan Watson
Dominique Weatherup
Joseph Younes
Amie Zhao
Coaches
Abdallah Alsebaai (Head Coach)
Larry Robinson (Head Coach)
Hani Kanama (Assistant Coach)
Justin Spencer (Assistant Coach)
Christopher Switalski (Coach in Development)
Technical Officials
Linda Rosario-Earnshaw
Mark Gomes
Mike Miller
Daniel Robitaille
Team Leaders
Logan Baker
Kaylee Wedge
Call Out: Social Media Administrators
May 18, 2022
The OWA is seeking for two volunteers to manage our social media network. The selected candidates will work collaboratively to promote and market weightlifting and the OWA, and to engage, celebrate, and communicate with OWA members.
Social Media Administrator - Engagement
Description: To promote the sport of weightlifting, market the OWA, and to engage and celebrate the OWA community. This position requires a weekly commitment of up to 5 hours per week.
Term: One-year contract
Key responsibilities:
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Develop and run special engagement initiatives to promote OWA athletes (e.g. cover photo contest, athlete profiles or Q&As, OWA board member profiles or Q&As)
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In collaboration with Competition Administrator, provide coverage of OWA competitions (CA will live stream; Social Media volunteer will re-share athletes’ stories and photos)
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Provide coverage of OWA athletes competing at national and international events (e.g. re-share athletes’ videos and stories and photos, post results).
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Post relevant articles (e.g. news media coverage of the sport).
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In collaboration with the Social Media - Engagement volunteer and OWA Administrators.
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Implement new marketing strategy across all social media platforms.
Social Media Administrator - Communications
Description: To communicate regularly with OWA members about competitions and other OWA business. This position requires daily commitment from 15 minutes to 1 hour per day.
Term: One-year contract
Key responsibilities:
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Post regular website, Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter updates to communicate competition information/news, course information, and other official OWA business.
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Respond to direct/private messages on all Social Media accounts.
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Monitor accounts daily for comments and handle comments that violate OWA policy.
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In collaboration with the Social Media - Engagement volunteer and OWA Administrators.
Requirements for both volunteer positions:
Must be from Ontario and willing to become a member with the Ontario Weightlifting Association. Minimum volunteer membership required. See Membership Policy.
Email your interest to OWA Administrator by Wednesday June 1, 2022.
Presenting Team Ontario
May 3, 2022
Wishing Team Ontario the best of luck at the Canadian Senior Weightlifting Championships, hosted by BC Weightlifting on May 20-22, 2022.
Athletes
Shania Bedward
Patrick Boileau
Amanda Braddock
Jet Cruz
Stephanie Gowanlock
Hannah Gula
Kennedy Harding
Samuella Jo Johnson
Maya Laylor
Jiwon Lee
Jaclyn Maxwell
Nicolas Munro
Eric Quach
Tyler Ross
Julia Ryan
Alana Santavy
Boady Santavy
Noah Santavy
Kody Taylor
Megan Trupp
Cheng Xu
Francise Yip
Coaches
Greg Chin
Michale D'Angelo
Hani Kanama
Clance Laylor
Spencer Moorman
Dalas Santavy
Technical Officials
Linda Rosario-Earnshaw
Daniel Robitaille
Team Leader
Nikkie Quero
Team Leaders Announcment!
May 3, 2022
We would like to announce that Kaylee Wedge and Logan Baker have been selected as Team Leaders for this year's Junior Nationals, hosted by Fédération d'haltérophilie du Québec on June 4-5 in La Prairie, Quebec.
2022 IWF Junior World Championships
May 2, 2022
Best of luck to Xavier Lusignan (M96kg A) and Coach Hani Kanama at Junior Worlds in Greece! Tune in here on Sunday, May 8 at 8 a.m ET and watch him compete.
Call Out: 2022 Canadian Junior Weightlifting Championships Team Leaders
April 13, 2022
Club Gros-Bill from Fédération d’Haltérophilie du Québec (FHQ) will be hosting this year's 2022 Canadian Junior Weightlifting Championships on June 4-5, 2022 in La Prairie Magdeleine High School, and we are looking for one male and one female to act as Team Leaders.
Team Leader duties include, but are not limited to: sending invitations to athletes and coaches, communication with the participants and Ontario Weightlifting Association (OWA), submission of forms and information to the OWA, traveling to Nationals, and on-site leadership and problem solving. Travel will be subsidized, and accommodations will be provide.
Please submit your interest, including related or prior experience, to info@onweightlifting.ca by Wednesday, April 27, 2022. Team Leaders who are selected will be required to obtain a Police Vulnerable Sector check.
Job Posting: Competition Administrator
March 1, 2022
The Ontario Weightlifting Association is looking for one candidate to fulfill our Competition Administrator position. This position works closely with the President and focuses primarily on competition administration.
Position: Part-time contract
Duties and responsibilities:
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General competition administration: data collection, scheduling, website updates, feeding data to competition software, verifing records, and working with vendors
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Training camp administration (minimum twice per season): inviting athletes based on supplied criteria, booking accommodations, and sending follow up surveys
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Aiding with competition set up (pre-configured laptops and equipment) at locations mostly within 1.5-2 hours of the GTA
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NCCP management: overseeing courses and evaluations, including coordination of facilitators and hosts, contracts, registrations, confirmation of eligibility and provision of course materials
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Attend monthly Board conference calls and Annual General meetings
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Aiding various board members as it relates to competition administration.
Qualifications:
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Strong communication, interpersonal, time management and organizational skills
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Must know Microsoft Excel
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Olympic Weightlifting experience is an asset, but not necessary
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Ability to work with minimum supervision
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Must be willing to travel generally within 1-1.5 hours of GTA one weekend a month; mileage and hotel accommodations (if applicable) is covered
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The successful applicant will be required to provide a current Vulnerable Sector Police Reference Check
Email your resume to info@onweightlifting.ca by March 19, 2022.
Commonwealth Qualifier - Canadian Invitational Update
January 13, 2022
WCH has been advised by the Quebec government that the event scheduled for La Prairie cannot proceed as planned. They are working diligently to see if there is an alternative location within Canada where the event can proceed safely. A final decision regarding the event communicated by January 20, 2022. Due to the timelines imposed by the Commonwealth Games Federation for athlete selection, the date of the event cannot be changed. The primary goal is to find an alternative location within Canada to host the event as originally designed. They are, however, exploring other options for athletes needing an official event to qualify for Commonwealth Games selection should a Canadian option not be possible. The athletes/coaches will be contacted directly to discuss options that might be available as more information become available.
The following are weight categories for the Commonwealth Games:
Female
49,55,64,71,76,87,87+
Male
55,61,67,73,81,96,109,109+
The following individuals earned direct qualification to the Commonwealth Games at the 2021 IWF World Championships World/Commonwealth Championships in Tashkent:
Maya Laylor – 76kg
Kristel Ngarlem – 87kg
Boady Santavy – 96kg
The current top ranked athletes in the remaining categories are as follows:
Female
49 - No internationally qualified total achieved
55 - Rachel Leblanc-Bazinet
59 - Tali Darsigny
64 - Maude Charron
71- Andreanne Messier
87+ - Emma Friesen
Male
55 - No internationally qualified total achieved
61 - Youri Simard
67 - No internationally qualified total achieved
73 - Shad Darsigny
81 - Nicolas Vachon
109 - Richard Davidson
109+ - Mike Bencsik
THIS LIST DOES NOT INDICATE SELECTION TO THE COMMONWEALTH TEAM. PLEASE REVIEW THE DOCUMENT HERE FOR MORE INFORMATION ON THAT PROCESS.
Commonwealth Games + La Prairie International Competition
December 23, 2021
Last night Weightlifting Canada Halterophile (WCH) notified the OWA of two international competitions that require participating athletes to declare their interest. Athletes registering will be required to submit a non-refundable administration fee of $100 for their registration to be confirmed.
Commonwealth Games
Due December 26, 2021, 9:00 AM
Whereabouts information should be current through to the end of the competition date at a minimum.
Final Commonwealth Qualifier - February 26, 27th (La Prairie, Quebec)
Due January 6, 2022, 9:00 AM
This competition is not only open to athletes wishing to qualify for the Commonwealth Games but also to any athlete wanting to gain competition experience in an international setting. To be eligible to compete athletes must meet the threshold for performance below and be at least 15 years of age as of December 31, 2022.
F M
45 107 55 176
49 128 61 200
55 140 67 217
59 151 73 232
64 158 81 245
71 163 89 249
76 167 96 266
81 168 102 268
87 169 109 270
87+ 183 109+ 288
Contract Relinquishment - Amanda Braddock
December 22, 2021
The Ontario Weightlifting Association would like to inform our members that as of December 31,2021, Amanda Braddock has decided to relinquish her position as Competition Administrator.
Over the last couple of years, Amanda has worked diligently to help our community move forward and was a critical member as we navigated COVID. She will be missed, and we wish her nothing but success in any future endeavors.
A contract posting will be available in the new year, and the executive board will take over the competition responsibilities in the interim. Continue to contact competiton@onweightlifting.ca for competition information.
Mike Miller and the OWA Executive Board
Call Out: Ontario Winter Games Team Leaders
December 13, 2021
The 2022 Ontario Winter Games will be held from February 27 to March 6, 2022 in Renfrew County, and we are looking for one male and one female to act as Team Leaders.
Team Leader duties include, but are not limited to: sending invitations to athletes and coaches, communication with the participants and Games Organizing Committee (GOC), submission of forms and information to the GOC, traveling to the Games, and on-site leadership and problem solving. Travel will be subsidized, and accommodations will be provided.
If you are interested, please submit your interest to the Administrator at info@onweightlifing.ca by Sunday, January 9, 2022. Team Leaders who are selected will be required to get a Police Vulnerable Sector check.
2021-2022 PSO Club Funding and Quest for Gold Program
March 25, 2022
We have just received notice that our application for the additional funding being dispersed to Provincial Sporting Organizations has been granted to the Ontario Weightlifting Association.
Total additional funds of >$50,000 to support members clubs, and high-performance athletes and/or programming are being awarded!
On March 17th the Ontario Government announced they would be investing in sports and recreation to encourage physical activity as we recover from this pandemic. Read the provincial press release here.
The Board of Directors reviewed the application and set up criteria as was required by the province and made a successful application for our portion of the funds. We are pleased to report that we have been awarded these monies.
2021-2022 Member Club Support Funding: 90% of the funds will be awarded to registered clubs with the remaining 10% to be retained by OWA to cover administrative costs. Priority will be given to clubs that were significantly impacted by the shutdowns. The criteria that we will use to determine club eligibility will focus on those with high overhead costs and if they are still active to date.
2021-2022 Quest for Gold Funding: 100% of the funds will be distributed to our high-performance athletes. The eligibility criteria will mirror the 2019-2020 Athlete Selection Criteria in the identification, ranking and selection of athletes. Two (2) senior athletes (1 male and 1 female) will receive full cards and four (4) junior athletes (2 males and 2 females) will receive half cards.
Further details to follow as we reach out to all clubs and athletes and determine eligibility. Funds will be dispersed no later than May 31, 2022.
Lifetime Achievement Award: 35-year Club Recipients
October 4, 2021
Congratulations to longstanding OWA members Jason MacLean and Dalas Santavy!
Awards to be presented at the Ontario Championships on November 6, 2021 at Variety Village.
Call out: Technical Support Volunteer
September 30, 2021
Job Description: To provide information and technology support to the OWA Administrative staff and Executive Board.
Term: Until March 31, 2022
Key responsibilities:
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Assimilate data from multiple sources.
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Administrative rights to information technology sources.
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Competition setup support.
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Ensure OWA is using most cost effective technology sources.
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Hardware support.
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Requirements:
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Must be an OWA member.
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Experience in operating computer hardware and software, specifically pertaining to data management and analysis.
Email your interest to OWA Administrator by October 29, 2021. Please describe why you're interested in this position and include any related or prior experience.
Update: Proof of Vaccination requirements in Guelph/Wellington
September 29, 2021
The OWA has received notice that the Wellington/Guelph health unit has amended the provincial regulations regarding COVID proof of vaccination requirements. (SCHEDULE 1, SECTION 2 (2.1) OF ONTARIO REGULATION 364/20)
Please be aware that athletes and coaches registered for the Richard Borden Memorial competition are subject to the following regulations as of September 23rd.
Athletes (in their active session of competition only):
18 & over: Proof of vaccination required
Under 18: Proof of vaccination NOT required
Coaches, Officials & Volunteers
12 & Over: Proof of vaccination required
Under 12: Proof of vaccination NOT required
ALL Spectators, Parents/Guardians (including athletes, coaches, officials or volunteers NOT in their active session of competition):
12 & Over: Proof of vaccination required
Under 12: Proof of vaccination NOT required
https://wdgpublichealth.ca/news/dr-nicola-mercer-medical-officer-health-and-ceo-wellington-dufferin-guelph-public-health-has
Lifetime Achievement Award
September 1, 2021
The Ontario Weightlifting Association Lifetime Achievement Award was established in order to recognize the contribution of longstanding OWA members. The award is presented to all eligible members for their ongoing dedication and continued commitment to the sport of weightlifting and the advancement of the Ontario Weightlifting Association. The Lifetime Achievement Award consists of both the 25-Year Club and the 35-Year Club and is presented annually at the Ontario Championships.
The OWA is now accepting nominations to the 25-Year Club and 35-Year-Club. Eligible members normally must be nominated 60 days prior to Ontario Championships, either by an OWA member/club or by self-nominating. Nominations consist of an email/letter stating the candidate’s name, club, first year of OWA membership and a brief history of contribution.
Please send any nominations to the Executive Board c/o Administrator for verification and approval by September 8, 2021.
VP Administration
August 31, 2021
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Eva Martens as VP Administration (1-year term), following the departure of Paul Vilchez.
Eva brings a varied background to her role as VP Administration, with years of experience in leadership roles, coaching, and competing as a Masters athlete.
Please join us in welcoming Eva to the OWA Executive Board.
2021 Pan American Masters Championships
August 12, 2021
Congratulations to the following Ontario silver medalists at the 2021 Pan American Masters Championships:
Pamela Warner (W40, 49kg), 105kg total
Nichole Lee (W40, 76kg), 155kg total
Ontario Youth/Junior Championships
November 22, 2021
NOTICE FROM THE PETERBOROUGH HEALTH UNIT:
Effective 12:01 a.m. on November 26, 2021, upon entry to the facility, confirm proof of vaccination (or proof of a medical exemption) and personal identification, for all persons 12 years of age and older, including participants actively engaged in organized sports.
Team Canada 50/50
July 20, 2021
Win Big & Support Team Canada!
The Team Canada 50/50 has launched! Win big and support Team Canada and sport across the country.
Starting today and running throughout the Olympic Games, join fellow Canadians from coast to coast in the TeamCanada 50/50. All proceeds are invested directly into Ontario’s sport system.
Buy Tickets: www.teamcanada5050.ca
Posting: VP Administration (Executive Board)
July 20, 2021
Job Description: Oversee and bridge administrative projects, and ensure the OWA is meeting various obligations and goals. See OWA By-Laws for more information.
Term: 1 year
Key responsibilities:
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Participate in discussions, voting, monthly conference calls, and helping various departments as necessary.
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Handles correspondence, maintains an updated system of the Corporation’s documents and records, and takes minutes at all meetings.
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Issue notice for meetings, be responsible for internal and external communications and will assist the President as required.
Addition responsibilities may include:
Develop the association's capacity to support and recognize Masters Weightlifting.
Work with committees to ensure the OWA's public image is a fair representation of its members.
Requirements:
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Eighteen (18) years of age or older, who is a resident of Canada as defined in the Income Tax Act, who has the power under law to contract, who has not been declared incapable by a court in Canada or in another country, who is a Regular Member of the Corporation in good standing, and who does not have the status of bankrupt.
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
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1 to 2 hours of work per week, spread out in short to long daily intervals.
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Be able to join monthly conference calls when available.
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Be able to travel when possible.
Apply: Email your interest to Administrator by Saturday, August 7. Please describe why you're interested in this position and include any related or prior experience.
Call out for Ontario Senior Championships Venue
August 6, 2021
Would you like to host the Ontario Championships on November 5-6, 2021? The OWA is looking for an ideal venue to host senior provincials for the 2021/2022 season.
Ideal criteria:
Hotel conference room, gymnasium or any suitable facility with approximately 4,500 sq. ft. of unobstructed floor space – ground level only.
Must have a parking lot (no street parking) and change rooms with showers.
Clubs interested in hosting must submit their interest to Administrator, info@onweightlifting.ca by Saturday, August 21, 2021. OWA members are also encouraged to send in your suggestions, for suitable locations in your area, and we will follow up with a request for quote.
2020 Tokyo Olympic Games Team Canada
June 19, 2021
Congratulations to the following Canadian athletes who qualified for the 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games:
Boady Santavy (96kg) - ON
Rachel Leblanc-Bazinet (55kg) - QC
Tali Darsigny (59kg) - QC
Maude Charron (64kg) - QC
Kristel Ngarlem (76kg) - QC
The athletes will be accompanied by coaches Dalas Santavy, Yvan Darsigny, and Jean-Patrick Millette.
2021 Commonwealth Championships - Memo from CWFHC
June 11, 2021
Please see the CWFHC page for a memo regarding deadlines and qualifying procedures for the 2021 Youth/Junior/Senior Commonwealth Championships, held in Singapore on October 20 - 24, 2021.
Declaration of Interest can be submitted on Upcoming Events and are due June 21, 2021.
Canadian Senior Championships - Change to Format
April 28, 2021
In light of ongoing concerns regarding COVID-19 the OWA and CWFHC have determined that the Canadian Senior Nationals competition will now be online. Dates and qualification criteria remain unchanged.
_______________________________
En raison des préoccupations constantes concernant covid-19 l’OWA et CWFHC ont déterminé que les Championnats canadiens seniors seront maintenant en ligne. Les dates et les critères de qualification demeurent inchangés. test
Provincial Government – Funding to Community Sport Clubs
August 3, 2021
Early this year, the OWA received emergency funding intended for Community Sports Clubs. The government indicated the OWA would be responsible for developing, managing and implementing a fair and transparent funding program that supports their member community sports clubs.
A community sports club is a club that aligns within the amateur sport system by offering a range of grassroots and competitive programming. This funding is intended to support community sports clubs across the province in sustaining their organizations and preparing for when the sport can return safely.
For a period from June 18th to July 3rd, clubs were invited through email, our website, and social media to participate in a survey/application to determine the allocation of funding received. Using data gathered from clubs, the OWA established the following criteria and distribution model.
Eligibility criteria:
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Club plans on resuming operations
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Club is responsible for renting or leasing their training location.
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Club had eleven or more members.
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Club has reduced its workforce.
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Club experienced a monthly revenue loss of greater than $500 due to decreased membership/participation fees, events.
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Club experienced a monthly operating cost increase greater than $500 (e.g., rent increase, PPE, signage)
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Club has not received other provincial funding (e.g., Ontario Small Business Support Grant)
Additional criteria:
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Met at least five of the above criteria
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Club had more than two members in the 2019-2020 season.
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Club has not received Community Sports Clubs funding from any other provincial sports organization
The funds were then distributed based on PRE-COVID 2019-2020 membership registrations.
The following clubs met the established criteria, participated in the survey/application and received the following amounts.
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ALP Weightlifting (10 members -> $780.52)
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Burlington Barbell Club (12 members ->$ 936.62)
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Cornwall Weightlifting Club (9 members -> $702.47)
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Garage Gym Weightlifting (6 members -> $468.31)
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GoodLife Barbell (9 members -> $702.48)
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Hammer Strength and Performance (4 members -> $312.12)
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JustLift (50 members -> $3902.59)
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Lift Barbell Club (formerly The Vault Barbell Club) (24 members -> $1873.25)
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LPS Weightlifting (8 members -> $624.42)
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RX Weightlifting (12 members -> $936.62)
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Varbanov School of Weightlifting (10 members -> $780.52)
For full funding summary, click here.
Call Out: 2021/2022 Junior and Senior Training Camps Location
July 8, 2021
The OWA is seeking for locations to host this season's Junior and Senior training camps. If your club is able to host, please email your interest to Administrator by Saturday, August 14
Posting: Interim VP Operations (Executive Board)
April 6, 2021
Job Description: Oversee and bridge administrative, technical and financial projects, and ensure the OWA is meeting various obligations and goals. See OWA By-Laws for more information.
Term: Until 2021 Annual General Meeting
Key responsibilities:
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Participate in discussions, voting, monthly conference calls, and helping various departments as necessary.
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Human resources, policy development, bylaws, Quest for Gold and appeal management.
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Conduct site visits as necessary.
Requirements:
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Eighteen (18) years of age or older, who is a resident of Canada as defined in the Income Tax Act, who has the power under law to contract, who has not been declared incapable by a court in Canada or in another country, who is a Regular Member of the Corporation in good standing, and who does not have the status of bankrupt.
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Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
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1 to 2 hours of work per week, spread out in short to long daily intervals.
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Be able to join monthly conference calls when available.
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Be able to travel when possible
Apply: Email your interest to OWA Administrator by April 14, 2021. Please describe why you're interested in this position and include any related or prior experience.
2021 Canadian Junior Championships
March 24, 2021
The OWA would like to thank all the volunteers and Technical Officials, both provincially and nationally, who were involved at the 2021 Canadian Junior Championships. The past year has been challenging, but your continued dedication and support help keep the sport alive! Without you, there would be no competition to speak of.
A special thank you goes out to our Ontario officials who gave their time, energy and patience:
Linda Rosario Earnshaw
Lara Ferretto
Mark Gomes
Mike Miller
Daniel Robitaille
To Canadian Weightlifting Federation, thank you! The challenges that come with adapting and transitioning to new ways of competition is no small feat; nonetheless, this event was a huge success.
Finally, we want to commend Team Ontario for their outstanding performance. Congratulations to:
Connor Bazilsky
Keeley Brown
Ryan Chen
Ruth Chouinor
Alexander Clazie
Feras Sharaf Eldin
Naza Grant
Carlene Gagnon Hachey
Emma Jamieson
Brady Killoran
Elita Lajoie
Griffin Lamarche
Naomie Lusignan
Xavier Lusignan
Elijah Martindale
Kayla Martindale
Brian Periku
Marlowe Robinson
Hannah Rolleman
Alana Santavy
Bradyn Santavy
Maleeka Virtue
Declan Watson
Ethan Yuke
As we reach the end of our season, we want to wish all our members a better and stronger 2021-2022!
Canadian Junior Championships - Team Ontario
March 6, 2021
The 2021 Canadian Junior Championships hosted by CWFHC will run online through Zoom, on March 20 & 21, 2021.
A schedule and livestream link will be provided as soon as possible.
Congratulations and good luck to all Team Ontario junior athletes!
Connor Bazilsky
Feras Sharaf Eldin
Griffin Lamarche
Brian Periku
Ryan Chen
Declan Watson
Xavier Lusignan
Bradyn Santavy
Elijah Martindale
Alexander Clazie
Brady Killoran
Ethan Yuke
Maleeka Virtue
Marlowe Robinson
Keeley Brown
Charlene Gagnon Hachey
Kayla Martindale
Alana Santavy
Naomie Lusignan
Hannah Rolleman
Ruth Chouinor
Naza Grant
Elita Lajoie
Emma Jamieson
Interim VP Operations
April 24, 2021
We are pleased to announce the appointment of Dave Earle as Interim VP Operations, following the departure of David Di Donato.
Dave brings a wealth of experience having been involved in weightlifting since 2009 as an athlete, coach and business owner of The Power Academy.
Please join us in welcoming Dave to the OWA Executive Board.
2021 Ontario Masters Open - Postponed
January 12, 2020
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic and Government of Ontario lock-down, the 2021 Ontario Masters Open scheduled on February 27-28 has been postponed to a later date.
Message from the President
February 24, 2021
Over the last year, the Ontario Weightlifting Association, like many other provincial and national weightlifting associations, has debated the feasibility of hosting their respective championships in this new and foreign landscape. I have had the opportunity to hear many different perspectives from members all across the province. After announcing our intentions to support an online competition, we have received both praise and legitimate concern about the format's fairness and feasibility.
Like many of you, my club, training, and family life have been dramatically affected by the uncertainty and hardship posed by the pandemic. As an athlete, I feel I will not have time to safely prepare for this competition and deliver a performance that will be personally meaningful. However, over the last year, I have witnessed a fantastic display of resourcefulness in many of our members at maintaining the training level required to compete. I've watched hundreds of athletes setting PR's in their basement/street/garages and humbled at their perseverance and the defiance of circumstance threatening their performance. For those who have expressed concern, we understand and did not make this decision without careful consideration.
This competition will be applicable for Quest for Gold and Team Ontario selection; however, it will not be the only competition. It is in no way a requirement for any Ontario selection process. We will do everything we can to ensure we have the best team for Senior nationals and provide a fair opportunity for all athletes to participate in the funding selection process.
I've heard loud and clear that no athlete wants to pay $100 to lift in the garage. I adamantly agree. Entry fees will be as small as possible, and we will find a way to give any surplus back to the community.
The Ontario Weightlifting Association has chosen to fulfill its national constitution requirement: holding an annual provincial championship. We will use an online format to host our Championships while maintaining our membership's health and safety. Ontario has witnessed many Ontario Championships where some athletes and clubs have been unable to attend. The legitimacy of those competitions has never been disputed. Still, this competition will be remembered as an anomaly and independently ranked as we try to make amends with the new reality COVID has brought us.
For some athletes, this competition will be the bitter end to our 2020/2021 season; for many others, this competition will be an exciting opportunity to feel some normalcy and connection with a community we have all had to do without for some time now. Regardless of perspective, on April 1st, we can begin anew with the 2021/2022 season and work towards rebuilding our coaches, clubs, technical officials. Most importantly, we'll have the opportunity to make a more inclusive, athlete-centric competition calendar with clear objectives for all streams of weightlifting.
This year has been immensely difficult for all of us. We've all had to make challenging, imperfect decisions to do the best we can in time in this time of incredible hardship and uncertainty. While we understand that we cannot please everyone with the decision we have made, know that we have made it with you, the community, in mind.
Mike Miller
Statement regarding Code of Conduct Violations
December 22, 2020
The OWA acknowledges it has received complaints about a coach whose actions could be in violation of the OWA's code of conduct. The OWA is a proud member of True Sport. We stand committed to the principles of respect and equality as cornerstones to creating our sporting experience, both on and off the field of play.
If you have witnessed or been subjected to any activity which you feel is inconsistent with our code of conduct, please contact the OWA President directly, at president@onweighltifting.ca. Any coercion or bullying of any member reporting ethical issues will be immediately dealt with.
All members of the OWA are entitled to due process and the OWA will continue to investigate infractions in a fair and consistent manner.
Gender Equity Committee
December 18, 2020
We are pleased to announce the working group for our new committee!
Chair: Nicolas Munro
Sarah Lakhan
Nichole Lee
Brendan Shaffick
Anna Zinenko
U15 Pan American Championships - Online
December 12 - 18, 2020
Good luck to OWA athletes competing in the 15 & Under Pan American Championships, taking place virtually between December 12 - 18th!
Marlowe Robinson
Declan Watson
Elita Lajoie
Livestream and archived sessions can be viewed here.
Ontario Youth/Junior and Senior Championships Postponed
November 26, 2020
See memo from the President.
2021 WADA Prohibited List
November 25, 2020
The OWA provides athletes and support personnel with information about the prohibited status of specific medications based on the current World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) Prohibited List.
The 2021 Prohibited List as well as the Summary of Modifications to the previous list will take effect January 1, 2021.
Article: "Some heavy lifting helps make local weightlifting tournament happen"
November 5, 2020
The OWA is proud to have run the first sanctioned competition of the 2020/2021 season, the Richard Borden Memorial!
Thanks to the help of Vault Barbell Club and many volunteers, the event was run safely and successfully at the Delta Hotel & Conference Centre in Guelph, ON.
Read more about what went into organizing this event here!
Ontario Youth/Junior and Senior Championships - Location Change
November 11, 2020
This competition will be hosted by The Vault Barbell at Delta Hotels by Marriott Guelph Conference Centre, 50 Stone Road West, Guelph.
See Upcoming Events page for more information.
Call Out: Gender Equity Committee
November 5, 2020
We are looking for five (5) members, with at least two (2) female representation, for this new committee. The committee’s purpose is to raise awareness and understanding of gender equity as it relates to high performance, governance, and general membership.
Scope
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Aid in developing a gender equity policy for the OWA.
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Ensure that gender equity is followed when developing, updating or delivering OWA programs, policies and materials.
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Consult with other committees and officers regarding gender equity.
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Promote awareness and provide education on gender equity.
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Report to membership at AGM.
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Ontario Weightlifting board may delegate other responsibilities as they see fit.
If interested, please contact Administrator at by November 30th.
Welcome: Bethany, Nikkie and John
November 02, 2020
The OWA is pleased to announce the following members who will be manaing our social media network.
Social Media Admnistrator - Engagement
Bethany Wilson
Social Media Administrators - Communication
Nikkie Quero
John Florento
COVID-19 Protocols
October 07, 2020
Message from Mike Miller - OWA President
We're getting messages indicating there are pockets of non-compliance regarding masks, social distancing, and sanitization. Please consider Weightlifting, CrossFit, Powerlifting, and Bodybuilding are often grouped together in the media. Gym infractions could have an effect on strength sports across Ontario regardless of their location or field. We must work together in our facilities to remain safe and open.
Lifetime Achievement Award
October 01, 2020
The Ontario Weightlifting Association Lifetime Achievement Award was established in order to recognize the contribution of longstanding OWA members. The award is presented to all eligible members for their ongoing dedication and continued commitment to the sport of weightlifting and the advancement of the Ontario Weightlifting Association. The Lifetime Achievement Award consists of both the 25-Year Club and the 35-Year Club and is presented annually at the Ontario Championships.
The OWA is now accepting nominations to the 25-Year Club and 35-Year-Club. Eligible members normally must be nominated 60 days prior to Ontario Championships, either by an OWA member/club or by self-nominating. Nominations consist of an email/letter stating the candidate’s name, club, first year of OWA membership and a brief history of contribution.
Please send any nominations to the Executive Board c/o Lana for verification and approval by October 8, 2020.
Gold for Team Canada
July 28, 2021
Congratulations to Maude Charron for winning Canada's second gold medal at the Tokyo Games! She competed in the 64kg category, lifting 105kg for the snatch and 131 kg for the clean and jerk.
We would also like to congratulate Rachel LeBlanc-Bazinet (55kg) who came in 12th with a 181kg total and Tali Darsigny (59kg) who placed 9th with a 199kg total.
2020 Ontario Senior/Junior/Youth Championships
September 28, 2020
Exciting news!
The 2020 Ontario Senior Championships and 2020 Ontario Junior Championships have been planned as a combined two-day event on December 5 & 6, 2020.
The competitions will be held on the same weekend to reduce travel and set up requirements for volunteers, officials, athletes and coaches.
Due to the interruption of the competition year in 2020, qualifying totals for the 2020 Ontario Senior Championships will not be in effect. However, in response to gathering limits and distancing considerations, competition registration will be capped. An invitation process will determine registration at this event. Junior athletes will not be subject to this invitation process and all Junior athletes will be invited to participate. Please note that athletes hoping to qualify for 2021 Canadian Junior Championships must compete at the 2020 Ontario Junior Championships.
Declarations for intent to compete are due November 1, 2020.
Please review the invitation process carefully as deadlines for athletes apply. Any questions on the invitation process should be directed to Amanda .
Return to Competition - COVID-19
September 21, 2020
The OWA has created a document outlining considerations for a return to competition in the 2020/2021 season.
This document is intended to be a resource for competition organizers when planning a sanctioned or club competition. It also outlines athlete, coach and Technical Official responsibilities at all future OWA meets until further notice.
Please review it and direct any questions or comments to competition@onweightlifting.ca.
2020 Commonwealth Rankings
January 5, 2020
The 2020 Commonwealth Weightlifting Rankings have been released.
Congratulations to the following OWA athletes for ranking among the Top 25 per weight class among Commonwealth countries!
Men
Nikolay Varbanov
Frank Longo
Noah Santavy
Boady Santavy
Richard Davidson
Patrick Boileau
Women
Amanda Braddock
Jaclyn Maxwell
Kalie Shanahan
Megan Trupp
Maya Laylor
Marie-Eve Beauchemin-Nadeau
Shania Bedward
Julia Ryan
Full ranking list can be found on our international results page here.
Thank you, Stella.
August 31, 2020
We’d like to take this opportunity to thank Stella Ng for all her hard work and commitment to the OWA since November 2018. She’s been an integral part of the team as our volunteer Social Media Administrator – Engagement and she will surely be missed. All the best, Stella!
Update - 2019/2020 Dotmar/Eleiko Club Challenge
August 04, 2020
Due to the COVID-19 shutdown resulting in the cancellation of the May and August Club Challenge weekends, the 2019/2020 OCC season has been extended, and the 2020/2021 season modified to allow clubs four Club Challenge Weekends per season, in which to compete and qualify.
The new dates for the two remaining OCC weekends will be:
2019/2020 Season OCC #3 - September 18-20, 2020
2019/2020 Season OCC #4 - November 13-15, 2020 (end of season)
These dates are subject to change, depending on information from the Government of Ontario regarding any further shutdowns or restrictions.
More details to follow on Return to Competition Guidelines and the status of the 2020 Ontario Senior Championships.
Please continue to refer to the Club Challenge page for details on holding a club challenge, current standings and past results.
OWA Return to Training
June 03, 2020
The OWA Executive Board highly recommends all members to review the attached documents. These documents are intended to aid in formulating procedures and policies to return safely to training. Each club/facility is required to create its own health and safety protocols that comply with the Chief Medical Officer of Health’s recommendations. Efforts must be taken to protect all your members and follow the public health authority guidelines at the federal, provincial, municipal level. In preparation for reopening, we've also included the COVID-19 Risk Assessment Tool for Return to Sport, which was developed in partnership with Own the Podium and the Chief Medical Officers of the COC, CPC and the Canadian Olympic and Paralympic Sport Institute Network.
Ultimately, it is up to each club to determine whether they can reopen under the required conditions as set out by the Emergency Order.
2020 Canadian Senior Weightlifting Championships
June 02, 2020
Following consultations with the PSOs and Sport Canada, the CWFHC regrets to announce the cancellation of the 2020 Canadian Senior Weightlifting Championships due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The continuing social distancing guidelines and limits of gathering sizes for groups across Canada leave little if any opportunity to reschedule the event without putting athletes, coaches, TOs and volunteers at risk and causing significant disruption to the 2020/21 calendar. The CWFHC will continue to work closely with our partners at Own the Podium, the Canadian Olympic Committee, and the IWF to develop guidelines for a safe return to sport. We thank you for your perseverance in these most unusual times.
Craig Walker - President
Richard Mason - Vice President, Administration
Don MacNeill - Vice President, Technical
Aaleem Patel - Secretary-Treasurer
Ontario Coaching Excellence Awards
April 22, 2020
Know a great coach? Nominations now open for the Ontario Coaching Excellence Awards!
The Ontario Coaching Excellence Awards celebrates the dedication and commitment of Ontario’s great coaches. The Awards recognize the importance of leadership, performance and the value of human insight which are all integral to great coaching.
Nominations close May 29, 2020
Complete the nomination form at: https://www.coachesontario.ca/events/awards/
Coaches are celebrated during National Coaches Week (September 19-27, 2020) at the Ontario Coaching Excellence Awards scheduled for September 19, 2020.
2019/2020 Quest for Gold
April 08, 2020
The DRAFT list of nominated athletes for the 2019/2020 carding cycle is now posted.
2020/2021 Season
April 06, 2020
All 2019/2020 memberships have been extended until the first OWA-sanctioned event is confirmed for the 2020/2021 season. The 2020/2021 membership forms will be made available once the first competition is scheduled. If you have any questions, contact Administrator.