Athlete file · No. 002
VERBEEK
TONYA
- Born
- 1977
- Hometown
- Grimsby
- Province
- ON
- Weight
- 55kg
- Style
- freestyle
- Status
- OLYMPIAN
Results
Record
| Year | Event | Weight | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Jeux olympiques d'Athènes | 55kg | Argent |
| 2008 | Jeux olympiques de Pékin | 55kg | Bronze |
| 2012 | Jeux olympiques de Londres | 55kg | Argent |
Biography
Tonya Verbeek holds the Canadian record for most Olympic wrestling medals (three) — an achievement unmatched in the nation’s Olympic history. Born August 14, 1977, Verbeek became in 2004 the first Canadian to win an Olympic wrestling medal, taking silver at 55 kg freestyle in Athens. At 27 she set a precedent that inspired an entire generation.
She continued her international excellence: bronze in 2008 (Beijing), silver in 2012 (London). At 34 at London 2012 she became the oldest Canadian woman to win an Olympic wrestling medal. Coached by Marty Calder at Brock University in Ontario, Verbeek built a rich record: Commonwealth champion (2014), Pan American Games medallist, and multiple World Championship medals.
After retiring from competition, Verbeek served as assistant coach at Brock (2006–2013) and remains involved in promoting the sport. Inducted into the United World Wrestling Hall of Fame in 2024, she embodies perseverance and enduring excellence.