For 16-year-old Jencie Henry (Arnes), throwing is a connection to a powerful legacy that fuels her passion and progress. Competing in women’s Discus and Shot Put at the 2025 Canada Summer Games, Jencie stands as a shining example of talent, hard work, and the enduring impact of mentorship.

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A Coach, A Legacy, and the Gift of Equipment

Jencie's coach, Justin Charrier, speaks warmly about the late Bruce Pirnie, a Canadian throwing legend whose influence still shapes the throwing scene in Manitoba and beyond. Bruce, a two-time Olympian and 1975 Pan American Games gold medalist in shot put, was more than a great athlete — he was a mentor and visionary who dreamed of building a throwing community in the Interlake.

Bruce’s passion led him to share his knowledge and equipment generously. When he passed away in 2024, Bruce’s daughter entrusted Justin with his treasured throwing implements, with the hope that they’d continue to inspire and develop young athletes like Jencie.

“The equipment jump started our current program. I can honestly say we would not be where we are without it.,” Justin explains. “The program would not have been possible without the mentorship, generosity and vision of Bruce. He has provided our young athletes an opportunity and I will continue to develop throws in the Interlake.”

Jencie still uses those same implements — the discuses and shot put — that Bruce gave her, a meaningful link to his legacy and belief in her potential. And they’ve even made it here to St.John’s for her competitions.

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From Beginner to Rising Star

Jencie’s journey began with encouragement from Justin, her gym teacher and coach, who suggested she try throwing.

“I was just like this small kid I’d never like even seen a shot put,” she recalls. “And then I picked it up and I was like, wait, this is kind of fun. And then I just kept doing it. And I started getting better and I actually started liking it.”

Discus quickly became her favorite. She likes its technical challenge and the way it allows for recovery during a throw — unlike shot put, where one mistake means it’s all over.

Since discovering the sport, Jencie’s dedication has been clear. She trains almost daily and earns impressive accolades like the trio she picked up at the end of last season with Athletics Manitoba -  Outstanding Female Throws, Chuck Sigfusson Memorial Discus Award, and Most Improved Female.

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Belief, Motivation, and Big Dreams

Bruce’s faith in Jencie was unwavering — he told her she was destined to be a great thrower, even when she doubted herself.

“Hearing other people's words and support, it just really helps me.”

That belief fuels her now, as she eyes future goals: competing in university, attending national meets, and, ultimately, aiming for the Olympics.

When the pressure builds, Jencie credits her support system - her parents, her coaches, her teammates - for keeping her grounded.

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Looking Ahead

Ranked third going into the Canada Games competition, Jencie is hopeful but grounded.

"I'm ranked third right now and I'm just really hoping it stays that way because - medaling would be insane.”

The throws program in the Interlake, powered by Bruce Pirnie’s legacy and Justin’s coaching, continues to grow. In its first season, there were 26 athletes from the Interlake, St. Andrew’s and Beausejour areas and  11 of them made the Western Canada Challenge team, 2 of them qualified for U18 national (Jencie won bronze in discus) and Jencie qualified for Canada Summer Games.

Justin already has plans to do more work with local coaches, and his group of athletes are determined - just like Jencie - to compete at the highest levels.