Athlete file · No. 027
YANIK
VIOLA
- Born
- 1982
- Hometown
- Calgary
- Province
- AB
- Weight
- 63kg
- Style
- freestyle
- Status
- OLYMPIAN
Results
Record
| Year | Event | Weight | Result |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2004 | Jeux olympiques d'Athènes | 63kg | 5e |
| 2003 | Championnats du monde | 63kg | Bronze |
Biography
Viola Yanik (born July 9, 1982 in Bonn, West Germany) embodies a pioneer of Canadian women’s Olympic wrestling. Originally from Saskatoon and a graduate of the University of Saskatchewan, Yanik began wrestling in 1997 with early commitment to the emerging sport.
Breaking the mould: at the 2003 World Championships in New York, Yanik became the only Canadian wrestler — male or female — to win a World medal that year (bronze, 63 kg freestyle). Her exceptional performance coincided with women’s wrestling joining the Olympic programme for 2004. At the Athens Games she finished fifth at 63 kg, contributing historically to the establishment of the Olympic women’s program.
Yanik retired from competition at the end of 2005 to pursue other projects. Of Turkish descent, she is married to Tolga Yanik. Her legacy reflects the transitional era of Canadian women’s wrestling into Olympic status, leaving an example of sporting courage and historic contribution.