67-Year-Old Peterborough Powerlifter Claims Provincial Title

Richard Gosselin is taking the phrase, ‘age is just a number’ to new limits as the 67-year-old Peterborough resident placed first in his division at the Ontario Powerlifting Association (OPA) Provincials at the Montecassino Hotel on Sunday.

Richard Gosselin (left) with Matt Goldsmith, Personal Trainer and Coach (right). pHOTO courtesy of Brianna Gosselin.

Gosselin qualified for provincials, taking first place in his division at the Ontario Powerlifting Association’s Classic AF 2023 at the Anytime Fitness in Woodbridge on July 2.

“It’s been a long road of training, endless time spent in the gym, making sure I am taking care of my nutrition and keeping positive mentally.,” said Gosselin. “You don’t realize how taxing it can be on yourself. But I love it. The gym is my sanctuary and always has been.”

Gosselin was in the Masterclass Division and had the following results:

• Squat : 172.5 kg - 380 lbs.

• Bench Press: 125 kg - 275 lbs.

• Deadlift: 190 kg - 418 lbs.

Gosslein returned to the gym two years ago after retiring from his corporate job. He often worked out as a teen and into adulthood and has worked out every day since. The provincial champion encourages people to pursue their passions, follow their lifelong dreams and never let their age hold them back.

He was coached by personal trainer Matt Goldsmith. Gosselin trains at both Goodlife Fitness locations in Peterborough on Monaghan and Chemong Road.

He plans to continue training and preparing for future competitions this year.

“I'm grateful to be able to do what I love and follow my dreams,” said Gosselin. “The people I have been getting to know and fellow competitors are such an inspiration.”

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