Dévre Gibson is the inaugural recipient of the Ryeley Palfi Scholarship – created in the memory of the popular Dawson Creek bodybuilder who passed on this June at the age of 19.
Gridiron owner Tammy Schmidt said with Palfi’s passing came an outpouring of support.
“We learned so much more about Ryeley after his passing,” she said Tuesday afternoon.
“Messages from all over the world pouring in, telling stories of the impact Ryeley had in their lives. We admire who Ryeley was and what he represented. It is an honour to help carry on his legacy.”
Upon being awarded the $2,500 scholarship, Gibson said she started out athletic, then sports became a chore, but Palfi was so inspiring to her n the gym.
“He is so young and I was blown away by his positivity and his energy. I was blaming myself and saw him and realized I had to ask myself some tough questions.”
It has stuck. Dévre is now in prep for her 3rd Bikini show, competing in Vancouver at both the Open and Natural Vancity Showdown October 1 and 2. She’s off to compete in Toronto the very next week at a National Canadian Pro Qualifier Show. It is her goal to obtain her pro card and one day compete for Ms. Olympia.
“It just starts with some belief.”
Schmidt said Palfi took time with everyone.
“Hundreds, thousands of miles away, he was always concerned about physical and mental health of others and helping them out.”
Gibson will be paying it forward, coaching Ryeley’s sister Kameryn Palfi this fall.”
Schmidt says a newly framed photo of Palfi will be hung in the gym in perpetuity.
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”Ryeley Palfi will always have a place at Gridiron Fitness.”
Palfi, took hardware at many competitions, including the Northern Classic. He was considered a rising top prospect in international body building circles.