Maria Bernard

Maria Bernard, born on April sixth, nineteen ninety-three, is a distinguished Canadian track and field athlete specializing in middle-distance events, particularly the challenging 3,000-meter steeplechase. Her athletic journey has been marked by significant achievements, including her official selection to Canada's Olympic team in July two thousand sixteen.

During her collegiate years, Bernard showcased her exceptional talent while competing for the UBC Thunderbirds. She played a pivotal role in leading her team to three NAIA cross country team championships from two thousand twelve to two thousand fourteen. In two thousand fourteen, she not only contributed to her team's success but also clinched the NAIA cross country individual title, culminating her cross country career with an impressive four All-American honors.

Bernard's prowess in track and field is equally remarkable, as she earned the title of an eight-time NAIA All-American. Her outstanding performance at the NAIA Outdoor Track and Field Championships in Gulf Shores, Alabama, in two thousand fifteen earned her the prestigious Herbert B. Marett Outstanding Performer Award. She excelled by winning both the steeplechase for the second consecutive year and the five thousand-meter run at the national meet, while also setting the NAIA championship steeplechase record during the preliminaries.

In addition to her individual accolades, Bernard's contributions to her team were significant. She secured a gold medal in the steeplechase at the NAIA meet in two thousand fourteen and played a crucial role in anchoring UBC to victory in the women's 4x800 relay at the NAIA championship in two thousand thirteen.