Hall of Fame
La Classique Internationale de Canots de la Mauricie
Induction to the Hall of fame
See the video shown at the induction of
Claude and Serge Corbin to the Hall of Fame.
Clic on the Hall of Fame logo.
Induced to the Hall of Fame of
La Classique Internationale de Canots de la Mauricie
2012
Claude Corbin
Claude Corbin was born at Cap-de-la-Madeleine, on March 5th 1945. He is the father of 2 children. An outdoor sports fan, Claude soon discovers the sport of long haul canoe.
In 1964, Claude joins for the first time the starting line up in La Tuque. That will be his first of 15 starts at La Classique. He will win the famous McCormick cup 8 times, 5 of them with younger brother Serge to whom he will teach his knowledge and share his experience of the sport. To have given Serge the will and power for the sport of long haul canoe racing still stands as his highest pride.
In 1969 the name CORBIN will become for the next 4 decades, the name that will dominate the world of long haul canoe racing. Claude Corbin, at his fifth Classique, with teammate Luc Robillard wins his first of 8 McCormick trophees. The year after, he wins again, this time with friend Jean-Guy Beaumier and then again in ’72 with Robillard.
It is in 1974 that he gets the first of 5 wins with brother Serge, then only 17 years old. Dominated in those days by american paddlers, the McCormick cup will become for more than 3 decades, in all or in part, propertie of one of the "home boys" from La Mauricie. And the name Corbin will be engraved 29 times on the cup, between 1969 and 2007.
However, in 1980 a back injure will have for consequence to end a career otherwise vowed to a brilliant future.
Claude Corbin and his 8 wins in 15 participations at la Classique.
Claude Corbin & Luc Robillard 2 wins : 1969, 1972
Claude Corbin & Jean-Guy Beaumier 1 win : 1970
Claude Corbin & Serge Corbin 5 wins : 1974, 75, 76, 77, 79
*Source : La Classique internationale de canots de la Mauricie inc.
2012
Serge Corbin
Serge Corbin was born at Cap-de-la-Madeleine le December 26th 1956. He is married to Nathalie Milette. Outstanding athlete, he could have had has much success in many other sports, but has choosed to dedicate himself to the sports of long haul canoe racing.
It all started when he was 10. His elder brother Claude needed a training partner, Serge became that partner. Serge Corbin participated for the first time at La Classique in 1973 with his brother at the age of 16. He will finish in second position. He wins for the first time in 1974 the very first of his 26 McCormick cups, teaming with brother Claude with whom he wins 4 more. During 4 decades, he is dominating not only at La Classique, but just about everywhere there is long haul canoe in North America. In the '90's he wins times at La Classique with 5 different partners. In a carreer that still lasts, he wins over 500 races everywhere, in all possible conditions.
All of the paddlers that have had the privilege of being his partner tell about how Serge wouldn't allow any of them giving less than 100% all the way thru those races. And his 26 wins at La Classique are a record that will most likely not be beaten, ever...unless another paddlers with as much talent in the future, decides to dedicate his whole life, like Serge did, to his sport.
A Trophy perpetuate his name at La Classique. Each year it is given to the paddler that represents the best hope within the young canoeists.
For ever and ever, he is and will remain « The King of the Saint-Maurice ».
Serge Corbin and his 26 wins out of 32 participations at La Classique.
Serge Corbin & Claude Corbin 5 wins : 1974, 75, 76, 77, 79
Serge Corbin & Normand Mainguy 5 wins : 1986, 88, 89, 98, 99
Serge Corbin & Solomon Carriere 3 wins : 1985, 93, 94
Serge Corbin & Jeff Kolka 3 wins : 2000, 01, 03
Serge Corbin & Ron Williams 2 wins : 1978, 80
Serge Corbin & Brett Stockton 2 wins : 1991, 92
Serge Corbin & Greg Barton 2 wins : 1996, 97
Serge Corbin & Michel Beauchesne 1 win : 1981
Serge Corbin & Richard Tétreault 1 win : 1982
Serge Corbin & Bruce Barton 1 win : 1990
Serge Corbin & Steve Corlew 1 win : 2007
*Source : La Classique internationale de canots de la Mauricie inc.
2008
Irwin C. Peterson
1924 - 2001
Irwin C. Peterson was born on February 16, 1924 in Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States. Proud father of five children, he had the pleasure and privilege to participate in many North Amercian competitions with his children. He participated in LA CLASSIQUE 30 times. He especially enjoyed 8 such CLASSIQUES with his son Steve who, without a doubt, was one of the most dedicated in long haul canoe competitions. Irwin last participated in LA CLASSIQUE in 1997, at 73 years old, with his good American friend Todd R. Ellison. They finished 36th.
The legendary Irwin C. Peterson is, without a doubt, even after his death on June 21st 2001, the most popular american canoe artist to have participated in the competition held on the majestic St-Maurice River, a river he simply loved. Always available, a great smile, a people person, he was a unique naturally charming individual. Furthermore, he was a champion who contributed to being considered a legend recognized by many. His presence is still felt by many, especially since his ashes were scattered in the river he navigated and enjoyed so much.
He accumulated hundreds of victories during his career. He won the infamous Coupe McCormick nine times, the emblem of the championship of la Classique internationale de canots de la Mauricie.
1955: Irwin Peterson & Tom Estes 10h08m26s
1957: Irwin Peterson & Tom Estes 11h20m48s
1958: Irwin Peterson & Tom Estes 14h11m09s
1959: Irwin Peterson & Tom Estes 14h19m13s
1960: Irwin Peterson & Gil Tinkler 14h10m26s
1961: Irwin Peterson & Gil Tinkler 14h07m37s
1962: Irwin Peterson & Ralph Sawyer 14h25m06s
1964: Irwin Peterson & Ralph Sawyer 13h45m55s
1966: Irwin Peterson & Ralph Sawyer 13h55m46s
To pay tribute to him, a perpetual trophy was inaugurated in August 2003 during the supper of the 70th edition of La Classique. This will remind us of his commitment towards the sport and, in particular, his interest in la Classique internationale de canots de la Mauricie. Steve represented his family. It was with great pride and emotion that he accepted this trophy in the name of his father, given annually to the first all American team to cross the finish line after the 3 stages. The first winners to receive this prestigious trophy were veterans Al Rudquist and his partner Bill Torongo in 2003.
Note: In 1955 and 1957, the race was from La Tuque to Shawinigan, in 2 stages. From 1958 to 1966, the race was from La Tuque to Trois-Rivières, in 3 stages.
Source: La Classique internationale de canots de la Mauricie inc.
2008
Ovila Dénommé
1922 - 2007
Ovila Dénommé was a proud competitor, born on April 2nd, 1922 in La Tuque, Haute-Mauricie. Father of 14 children, he even took time to train to ensure constant success. To him, finishing other than 1st was losing. His wife Colette always supported and encouraged him. In the 50’s, he was without a doubt, the King of the St-Maurice River. With his loyal friend and brother in law, Henri Goyette, they won “la Classique” and the prestigious McCormick Cup four (4) times.
Ovila Dénommé was a true force. At more than 6 feet and weighing over 200 lbs, this man earned respect everywhere he went. He couldn’t accept half measures. Even at over 80 years of age, he was always proud and straight as an arrow. He was always present at both starting and finishing lines of the “Classique” and he also handsomely welcomed the participants and wished them luck. The participants always admired this giant of canoeing. He is a true legend. He passed away on May 16th, 2007.
In 2001, the old port of La Tuque was completely taken down and rebuilt due to the intervention of Madame Louise Pelletier from Hydro-Québec. To pay honour to this great man which symbolizes la Haute-Mauricie, he was asked that the port bear his name. But he refused but gladly accepted it be called Port Dénommé/Goyette. He thought it was better to have two names, as in a canoe race. This magnificent port, very functional and beautiful, commemorates the greek arenas of antiquity, and officially became Port Dénommé/Goyette. It was inaugurated with a special ceremony amongst sports, political, and business figures from the St-Maurice Valley. The population also showed its support to this legend. At the time, the mayor of La Tuque was the now deceased Gaston Fortin.
Ovila Dénommé participated in nine (9) « Classiques » and won four (4) times.
1952: Ovila Dénommé & Henri Goyette 10h:31m:16s:
1953: Ovila Dénommé & Henri Goyette 09h:55m:44s:
1954: Ovila Dénommé & Henri Goyette 09h:57m:24s:
1956: Ovila Dénommé & Henri Goyette 11h:04m:47s:
Race was from La Tuque to Shawinigan in two (2) phases.
Source: La Classique internationale de canots de la Mauricie inc.
2008
Henri Goyette
1915 - 1964
Henri Goyette was born in Trois-Rivières on January 19th 1915. His wife is Marie-Paule Dénommé. They were proud parents of seven (7) children.
Henri Goyette participated in eight (8) Classiques between 1936 & 1956, finishing first four times. Less flamboyant than his brother in law Ovila Dénommé, he was well respected and known as a strong competitor in his sport. In a short time frame, he had many accomplishments, and is well deserving a place amongst the best ever in his class. The municipal port in La Tuque is named after him « Quai Démommé/Goyette » due to his wins with Ovila, also a good friend.
On September 1964, at only 49 years old, he passed away. His early departure did not allow him to affirm himself as a great supporter of the next generation in canoe racing, however his departure did pave the way for the new stars who have always recognized his accomplishments. He will always be recognized as a great champion.
Forever, his name will be associated with other great champions of the history of « la Classique Internationale de Canots de la Mauricie »
Henri Goyette and his four (4) victories in eight (8) participations.
1952: Henri Goyette & Ovila Dénommé 10h:31m:16s:
1953: Henri Goyette & Ovila Dénommé 09h:55m:44s:
1954: Henri Goyette & Ovila Dénommé 09h:57m:24s:
1956: Henri Goyette & Ovila Dénommé 11h:04m:47s:
From La Tuque to Shawinigan in two (2) stages.
Source: La Classique internationale de canots de la Mauricie inc.
2008
Louise Pelletier
Born in Sainte-Luce-sur-Mer in Lower Basin of Saint-Laurent, Louise Pelletier became the first woman to be named to "Hall of Fame of La Classique Internationale de Canots de la Mauricie", in the "Builder/Partner" category.
Since her arrival at Hydro-Quebec in 1975, she held several positions, and an important role as consultant in labor relations. In December 1989, she was promoted to manager in La Tuque, and four years later, she supervised a merger of that business unit with the Shawinigan business unit, which resulted in the creation of “Des Cascades” business unit. She was appointed Director of Production in that business unit on December 9th, 1996. In July 1997, she also became Regional Director of the Mauricie region.
Inherently, she oversaw the representation and coordination of activities of Hydro-Québec with regional partners in the Mauricie and Centre-du-Québec regions.
Due to her continual involvement and belief in the event, in the 90’s, she added her personal touch to add credibility, in her own way, to the organization of the event, at times when the event had its difficulties. Her actions were fundamental to the survival of the event. These actions led to other partners following along with other key initiatives for the event. She accepted to support "Le Défi Sportif de canotage". She was honorary President of « La Classique » in year 2000, the 67th edition. Her presence, enthusiasm, human approach, and commitment gave the organization of « La Classique » motivation to continue and make the event what it is today.
Louise Pelletier fully deserves this nomination to the "Hall of Fame of Canoeing". She is simply a wonderful Lady!
2009
Jean Lemay
1914 – 2006
Jean Lemay was gifted with greater than normal, sheer natural power. Born in Shawinigan on February 28, 1914, he was, from a young age, a natural in canoeing. People always knew he belonged on the water. Married to Thérèse Beauchamp, he was fortunate enough to have 5 children. He participated sixteen (16) times at la Classique and was crowned champion, and had the privilege on engraving his name on the famous McCormick Cup, five (5) times. With his partner, Armand Sauvageau, he was the first to put his name on the trophy, in 1936.
During the 65th edition of la Classique in 1998, Jean Lemay, at 84, was named honorary president. You could see in his face how proud and happy he was. He who thought had been forgotten, relived memorable experiences from the past. He received a royal treatment. With his private chauffeur, Fernand « Tom » Pellerin, he participated at all the activities of la Classique with a lot of energy and enthusiasm that he didn’t think he had left in him.
He participated in his last Classique in 1963 with partner Lionel « Ti-Lou » Rock. Jean was simple and somewhat reserved. He is part of champions who contributed to making this prestigious competition the great success it is today. This is why he fully deserves his induction to the Hall of Fame on September 2nd 2009. He is part of the legends of this amazing sport.
In his sixteen (16) participations, five (5) were victories :
1936 : Jean Lemay & Armand Sauvageau 15h : 30m : 30s
1938 : Jean Lemay & Lionel Joly 15h : 10m : 20 :
1939 : Jean Lemay & Edmond Dontigny 6h : 30m : 40s :
1947 : Jean Lemay & Robert Lemarier 6h : 24m : 20s :
1948 : Jean Lemay & Robert Lemarier 9h : 39m : 01s :
The courses were as follows :
1936 : La Tuque to Grand-Mère, Grand-Mère to Shawinigan
Shawinigan to Trois-Rivières
1938 : La Tuque to St-Roch, St-Roch to Shawinigan
Shawinigan to Trois-Rivières
1939 : St-Jacques-des-Piles to Shawinigan,
Shawinigan to Trois-Rivières
1947 : La Tuque to St-Roch-de-Mékinac
1948 : 75 miles in two (2) stages of 37.5 miles around the
Island in Shawinigan
Source : La Classique internationale de canots de la Mauricie inc.
