“Let the 41st Défi Sportif AlterGo begin!”
Maxime Gagnon, president and CEO of AlterGo, delivered those words before the distinguished guests in attendance at the opening ceremonies of the mini-marathon, the opening-day event of the 2024 Défi Sportif AlterGo.
For the 1,000 athletes who were on hand to take part in the numerous events being held at Jarry Park, his words carried great excitement. They also held great importance for Gagnon himself, as they launched the 30th Défi Sportif AlterGo of his career with the organization.
A MEMORABLE ARRIVAL
Gagnon joined the Défi Sportif in 1994 as the logistics coordinator. He was hired by Monique Lefebvre, the founder of the Défi Sportif AlterGo, who was the CEO of the organization at the time.
Almost 30 years later, Lefebvre, who retired in 2019, still remembers their initial meeting. “When he told us about his background, we could see that he had a keen sense of resourcefulness and of innovation, and that he had an easygoing nature. It was clear that he was passionate and knowledgeable about the world of sports, and that he deserved a spot at AlterGo.”
Lefebvre and Gagnon ended up working together for 25 years, growing the Défi Sportif AlterGo, which now brings together more than 6,000 athletes each year. “I had a feeling we would work together for a while, but I never guessed it would be so great. Growing AlterGo with Maxime has been a unique gift.”
MAXIME GAGNON, FROM COORDINATOR TO CEO
Starting as the logistics coordinator, Maxime later became the coordinator of logistics and competitions. He then took on the role of director of the Défi Sportif AlterGo, before being named assistant director general. When Monique Lefebvre retired in 2019, he was the obvious choice to become president and chief executive officer of AlterGo.
Five Défi Sportif AlterGos later, 3 of which required numerous adjustments due to COVID-19, Lefebvre is proud to see Gagnon continue to carry out their mission. “I owe him a great deal for having wanted to take over, first and foremost because he does high-quality work. AlterGo has continued to grow and to act as an agent for change when it comes to social inclusion. He and I have remained in contact, and I’m able to enjoy my retirement with peace of mind. You can’t put a price on that. I owe him a thousand thanks. The best is yet to come!”
