Aylmer’s Marie-Soleil Labelle: Racing beyond the track to fulfill dreams

Tashi Farmilo

Marie-Soleil Labelle, co-founder of the Musée Gilles-Villeneuve racing team and an engineering student, is not only making strides in motorsports but also in philanthropy, as she balances her academic pursuits with her passion for racing and her commitment to making a difference.

Labelle's journey into motorsports began at a young age, and she quickly moved from indoor karting to competing in outdoor competition karting. "I was eventually recruited by a race team, and under the mentorship of Mr. Raymond Tagliani, I embraced the world of road racing at the age of 15," Labelle said. She is now competing in the North American Nissan Sentra Cup 2024 and NASCAR Sportsman Modified races while pursuing dual degrees in Mechanical Engineering and Computer Science at the University of Ottawa.

Beyond the racetrack, Labelle is a spokesperson for Regroupement TDL Québec and the international committee of Raising Awareness Developmental Language Disorder (RADLD). "I became involved with TDL and RADLD because, like many others, I have been diagnosed with a developmental language disorder," she shared. Labelle's goal is to raise awareness and advocate for inclusivity and understanding for individuals with neurological differences.

Labelle's philanthropic journey began with her education, where she learned the value of making a positive impact on others' lives. "I believe that empathy, compassion, and generosity are fundamental qualities for anyone engaged in philanthropy," she stated. Over the past six years, she has cultivated her network and sought guidance from mentors to effectively address social issues.

For young individuals aspiring to follow in her footsteps, Labelle advises cultivating determination and resilience. "Understand that everyone's path is unique, so avoid comparing your progress to others and celebrate every small victory along the way," she advised.

Looking ahead, Labelle envisions a future intertwined with racing and philanthropy. "I am driven to explore all avenues within motorsports and to pursue opportunities that align with my goals and aspirations," she said. Her philanthropic endeavors will continue to evolve alongside her racing career, focusing on inclusivity and diversity within the motorsport industry.

Labelle also expressed gratitude to her partners in Gatineau, including the Aylmer Bulletin, DORMANI NISSAN, GRAPHTEK.CA, and Les Pièces d'Auto Le Bon Choix, for their support. She highlighted the importance of fitness, reflexes, and coordination for race car drivers, praising the training provided by Centre d'Entrainement Innovation - Solution - Développement - Performance (ISDP).

As Marie-Soleil Labelle races toward her dreams, she remains committed to making a difference in the lives of others. With her campaign for Make-A-Wish® / Children’s Wishᴹᴰ Canada going strong, she continues to inspire and uplift those around her. "One must never stop believing in their dreams," Labelle says, embodying the very essence of determination and resilience.

Photo caption: Marie-Soleil Labelle, co-founder of the Musée Gilles-Villeneuve racing team and an engineering student, is excelling in both the motorsports arena and philanthropic endeavors. 

Photo credit: Courtesy of Marie-Soleil Labelle