https://www.nkerba.com/the-essence-of-series/the-essence-of-Greg-hjt7t-956yj-jd9nc-hdezl-bnm4p

Determined ~ Stubborn ~ Openminded

Outgoing ~ Reliable ~ Friendly

(author’s extra! - Dedicated)

I have known Greg for almost thirty years. He was our courier for ICS, an insurance company delivery service. I found him friendly, outgoing, and a pleasure to work with—so much so that we felt his drop-off and pick-up were visits. When we renovated our office, we held a soft opening and dedication. Few people were invited, as it was a small space, but we asked Greg to join the office staff and family for the opening toast.

Whether I have a diagnosable condition or not, I go through life like a squirrel. Everything fascinates me; when someone says what you like photographing, my answer is anything that presents itself. I love birds and trees; I will photograph a model on a runway or a bird feeding its chick. I don’t care if I have the ten thousand dollar camera or phone. Earlier in 2024, while I was taking my dog, Shiloh, out for her poop and scoop mission, I left my camera behind, and my phone had run out of juice; I felt naked without a moment-capturing machine. Imagine when I ran into a young man carrying a brand new baby; the light was perfect. What else could I do? I stopped and told him I was a professional photographer and wanted to use his phone to capture that special moment that caught my eye. I took the picture and edited it in a minute, then handed him the phone back. That random act of kindness made both of us feel amazing.

That’s why when I found out that my friend Greg was involved in Judo, I asked him if there would be an opportunity to photograph a tournament.

I knew he was dedicated to Judo, but I had no sense of his involvement in the sport. Just how involved? Thirty years and now an integral part of the organizing committee. I recently had the opportunity to witness firsthand the latest “Ontario Open Tournament.” There were competitors from as far away as the US and Quebec, and I even noticed one from Saskatchewan. I am not an authority and did not collect statistics for the tournament. I do know that it had five mats and over 1,000 competitors.

As a volunteer for many years in various sports, events, and activities, I marvelled at the organization. The smoothness of the event revealed just how professional the organizers are.

Gerald Poirier, Judo Canada and Heather West, Tournament Director for the Ontario Open, with Antoine Bouchard in the background.

The Ontario Open Championship had five mats constantly in action. 1,040 competitors saw action on these mats over the two-day tournament.

What truly impressed me about the sport was the whole community-minded approach. The judges, coaches, parents, and competitors were examples of good sportsmanship, camaraderie, and caring. The world could learn a lesson from these competitors and, indeed, the collection of people who were there. It is not unique to this sport, but it is a delight to see. It does matter whether one wins or loses, of course, but what mattered was the good sportsmanship exhibited by both winners and losers. The winners were gracious, the losers were respectful, and both were good sports. Even more eye-opening was both the one that lost and the winner would step off the mat to get a recap conversation from the coach.

Greg agreed to do my Essence portrait, but his replies were relatively camera-shy and succinct. I needed more content, so we have more images than text here. I will add more photos of Greg in time.

Good sportsmanship prevails - win or lose!

The takedown!

What has been your biggest challenge and how have you overcome it?

My biggest challenge has been life itself, and I've learned to take each day as a blessing

At some time, you reached a fork in the road. At that time, it didn't feel like it, but looking back, you realize it was a big moment. One that changed your life. Describe yours.

As a parent, I went to a judo tournament and couldn't just sit in the stands. I had to be more involved, and I started doing draw sheets and announcing matches. It was very gratifying to become an active member of the ”Dream Team.'“ Now, almost thirty years later, I am the VP of Marketing for Judo Ontario. I am still engaged and enjoying every moment - and living the Moto that - “Judo is not just a sport, it’s a way of life!”