Christopher Pietruczuk

Interview Questions

The moment or success you are most proud of in your sporting career thus far?

2nd Place at Polish Junior Open

How often do you train (per week)?

Fence: 2x week, Swim: 6x week, Ride: 2x week, Run: 6x week, Shoot: 5x week

Of the five sports of pentathlon (fencing, swimming, equestrian, shooting and running), which do you consider your best?

Running

Why do you love the sport of pentathlon?

Because it’s very challenging.

What is the toughest aspect of Pentathlon that many people may not recognize?

The toughest is competing in all five disciplines in one day, and fact that it takes 5 to 6 hours every day training plus travel time to different venues. But at the same time, it makes it very challenging and interesting.

When did you got involved in pentathlon and why?

I started training in 2007. I was 17 years old. Temur Balakari, a pentathle from Georgia, introduced Modern Pentathlon to me.

Do you participate in other sports?

Triathlon

Do you have any pre-competition superstitions (i.e. one athlete always sits in the same seat on the bus on the way to competition, or one always listens to same song)?

I remove small rocks from my running shoes to make them lighter, and collect coins from different countries.

Advice you would give to someone who might be interested in or has just started competing in pentathlon?

Be patient - it’s takes a lot of time and effort to build confidence in all 5 sports.

How has being an athlete benefited you (positive effects in your life that you would not have had otherwise)?

I have learned never to give up regardless of the circumstances.

In the moments when I doubt that I want to continue, how do I motivate myself?

I think about my past successes.

Athlete you admire most? (Past or present)

Mohamed Ali, Michael Phelps and Emil Zatopek because of their hard work and great achievements..

Are there any other athletes in your family?

Father Miroslaw competed in kayaking (flat and white water) and my mother Urszula competed in downhill skiing. They were both members of Polish national teams before immigrating to Canada in 1984 with two of my older sisters. I have four sisters, all were and are involved in sports: three day eventing, snowboarding, swimming and volleyball.

What is your favourite Olympic moment or motivation?

Michael Phelps accomplishment at 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, China inspired me a great deal.

Education (are you in high school, trade school, university or have you finished)?

I finished school last year. This year I committed all my time to training to prepare the best I can to qualify for the Olympics in London.

Future goals (in sport & or work)?

Olympic Champion

Do you do any volunteer work?

I’m a swim coach for younger swimmers in my town.

What are your hobbies?

Snowboarding, biking, triathlon, music

Who is your biggest fan?

My parents and coaches

What is your favourite quote?

What doesn’t kill you, makes you stronger

Favourite book?

Lord of the Rings

Favourite song & or band?

Eminem

Favourite movie?

Forrest Gump

Favourite meal?

Pizza

If I were an animal, I would be a ___________ because...

Monkey - because I like bananas