Philippe Morneau-Cartier on a perfect university career
Season after season, Philippe Morneau-Cartier has found ways to push the boundaries of excellence.
The Laval University medical student wrapped up his university career with another dominant season in 2025-26, winning every race in which he competed. After wins in Ottawa and on the Plains of Abraham, he became the first cross-country athlete in RSEQ history to win four consecutive conference championships.
Morneau-Cartier then added another chapter to his impressive career, winning the U SPORTS National Championship for the third year in a row, a feat not achieved since the mid-1980s. In the end, he concluded his university career with 13 straight wins on the RSEQ circuit, another record.
What makes his accomplishments all the more impressive is knowing that he achieved them while pursuing rigorous studies in medical and working long externship hours at the hospital. Recognized for his leadership and work ethic, Morneau-Cartier has become one of the greatest runners in Rouge et Or history.
As he reflects on his nomination for U SPORTS Male Athlete of the Year, Morneau-Cartier sat down with U SPORTS to share about his journey, his pursuit of excellence, and the lessons he’s learned throughout his university career.
U SPORTS: How did you get into running and cross-country?
Philippe Morneau-Cartier : At first, it wasn’t necessarily something that was planned. I’m from Sainte-Anne-de-la-Pocatière and, in high school, everyone did track and field. I quickly realized that I had an easier time with long distances.
When I got to CEGEP in Quebec, I had to choose a sport. I had played hockey, soccer and football in the past, but I didn't have time to do it all. The common thread between those sports was my cardio. So I told myself I was going to take advantage of that as much as I could and dedicate my time to running.
U SPORTS: When did you start to take the sport more seriously?
Morneau-Cartier: I would say in my fifth year of high school. That’s when I started training more and when I left La Pocatière to come to Quebec, in an environment that was more structured. I joined a training group with more experienced trainers and athletes. I started to progress really quickly. I was starting to get good results, to win races and, naturally, I developed a passion for this sport.
U SPORTS: What led you to the Rouge et Or?
Morneau-Cartier: It wasn’t really a surprise. During CEGEP, I was already in contact with the training group affiliated with Laval University. My coach knew the Rouge et Or coaches well, so it was a natural transition. Honestly, even if I had had other options at the time, I think I would have chosen Laval anyways. These last five years have been absolutely fantastic.
U SPORTS: What is one key thing you’re taking with you from your university career?
Morneau-Cartier: Often, we turn down an opportunity because we don’t feel ready or we doubt our abilities. With time, I’ve realized that if you turn it down, someone else will take it. That person isn’t necessarily more qualified than you. They just had the courage to try. When an opportunity arises, you have to have the courage to accept it and to give it your all.
U SPORTS : What does being nominated for U SPORTS Athlete of the Year for the second year in a row mean to you?
Morneau-Cartier : It is a great source of pride. Last year, I was named a finalist without winning the award. Of course, there was a little disappointment because I am a competitive person. But just being named as one of the best university athletes in the country is already an immense honour. To be a finalist for the second year in a row, I couldn’t ask for better.
U SPORTS : Who would you like to thank for helping you reach this level?
Morneau-Cartier : The answer is easy: my coach, Félix-Antoine Lapointe. Yes, he was my coach, but he also played a mentorship role. He helped me to develop as an athlete, but also as a person. I would also thank the entire Rouge et Or organization. As athletes, we join an established structure and sometimes take certain things for granted. But behind that structure, there are so many people working hard to make sure our experience is exceptional.
U SPORTS: What does the future hold for Philippe Morneau-Cartier?
Morneau-Cartier: Probably a bit less competition. I’m starting my residency with the goal of becoming a doctor, and it requires a lot of time and energy. I’ll still run and be involved in the sport, but my priorities are starting to shift. If I can help my teammates or still be around the team, I will gladly do so.
U SPORTS: What advice would you give to the next generation of student athletes?
Morneau-Cartier: Don’t be afraid to try. When combining studies with high-level sport, everything can seem intimidating. We put a lot of pressure on ourselves and sometimes we’re scared to fail. But the worst that can happen is to miss your chance. No one has ever died for trying. You have to trust in the process, stay consistent and keep moving forward.
U SPORTS: When you look back on all that you’ve accomplished, what does that make you feel?
Morneau-Cartier: It makes me smile. When I was younger, these goals looked more like dreams than something realistic. Today, I realize that I achieved them. Most of all, I’m grateful. If I am where I am today, it’s thanks to a whole village of people who contributed to my success. I will always be grateful to them.