Swift Current athlete earns spot at RBC Training Ground national event

Swift Current track and field athlete Kyler Duclos is preparing for one of the biggest opportunities of his young career after earning a spot among the top 100 athletes selected for the next stage of RBC Training Ground.

The 17-year-old Grade 12 student, who trains with Regina’s Excel Athletica, was among more than 3,000 athletes between the ages of 14 and 25 who took part in the program’s testing in Saskatoon.

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The RBC Training Ground program uses a series of physical tests to identify athletes who could have potential for Canada’s national development programs.

Duclos completed four tests: a beep test, 30-metre sprint, maximum deadlift pull and vertical jump.

His primary track and field event is the long jump, but he is also looking to develop as a 200- and 400-metre runner.

A surreal opportunity

Duclos will now travel to Toronto in early October for the next stage of the program, where athletes will compete for potential funding and opportunities within national development programs.

“It’s such a surreal moment,” Duclos said. “You’ve got to live it to believe it.”

He said his focus will be on performing to the best of his ability rather than setting specific targets.

“I’m just going to go do my best, going to go give my best effort, show everyone what I truly can do,” he said.

Building toward the next level

Duclos has already competed at the national level, with the upcoming event providing another opportunity to test himself against some of Canada’s top young athletes.

“This would have been my fifth year going to nationals. My fourth national medal,” he said. “But this moment is … I don’t even know what to think about it. I can’t believe it.”

Duclos is also exploring a transition into the 200- and 400-metre events as he continues developing his athletic career.

“Everyone’s dream as a young athlete is to represent Canada on a bigger stage,” he said.

Preparing for Toronto

With the event approaching, Duclos is increasing his training load as he looks to reach peak form.

He is spending time in the gym, on the track and on the bike while prioritizing recovery between workouts.

“I’m trying to be in the gym once a day, on the track once or twice a day as well,” he said. “I’m on the bike every day.”

For now, Duclos said he is excited about the opportunity and ready to see where it takes him.