Hard work always pays off—but for some, it leads to world records. That’s exactly what happened to Marc Nassif, an NDU student majoring in Physical Education and Sport, who recently secured a Guinness World Record for the heaviest weighted triceps dip. His achievement is a testament to his relentless dedication and the academic and personal support he receives at NDU.
Reflecting on his choice to pursue Physical Education at NDU, Nassif describes it as “the best major and place that corresponds to my passion and lifestyle.” His courses provide extensive theoretical and practical knowledge, enhancing his training skills as both an athlete and a coach.
When Marc first discovered the Guinness World Record category for the heaviest weighted triceps dip, he knew he had the potential to break it. Motivated by the opportunity to represent Lebanon on a global stage, he applied and committed to an intense training regimen—three to four hours daily for several weeks. Although already a disciplined athlete, he adopted an even stricter diet and lifestyle, pushing through occasional setbacks to stay on course.
Marc’s record-breaking success has fueled his ambition to set new records in the future. His career aspirations include working as a personal trainer and model before launching his own fitness business. To inspire others, he emphasizes two key principles: consistency and sacrifice.
For NDU alumna Chloé Abou Chabake (BA’19), who majored in Physical Education and Sport, sport is more than just a passion—it has shaped her career, identity, and leadership journey. Now selected for the prestigious International Olympic Committee (IOC) Young Leaders program, she is determined to use this platform to drive social change in Lebanon and beyond.
Chloé started her career in sports as a coach, and after pursuing a master’s degree in Olympic Studies at the International Olympic Academy, she decided to work in sporting events. Chloé has worked for the Davis Cup in Cairo, as well as served a project manager at Odyssey, a sports volunteering association in Lebanon. She volunteered in national and international events, such as the 2024 Olympic Games and the 2023 European Games. She is also board member of Club La Tour and a member of the education commission of the Lebanese Olympic Committee. “Sports shaped me into who I am today,” she shares.
Applying for the IOC Young Leaders program was a natural next step, allowing her to put her Master’s thesis into practice while gaining national and international exposure. The selection process was highly competitive, but her strong academic background, professional and volunteer experience, and clear career vision set her apart. “This accomplishment opens doors to greater impact and validates my passion and hard work,” she says. Through her role, Chloé hopes to highlight the power of sports in fostering social cohesion, particularly in Lebanon.
“My professors challenged me to pursue my goals and provided me with the right direction,” she explains, expressing particular gratitude to NDU Professors Dr. Nadim Nassif and Dr. Kaissar Keyrouz for their consistent support.
To young professionals aspiring to make an impact in sports, she offers this advice: “Get involved in everything, explore different domains, and take advantage of every opportunity. It’s a long journey, but every step counts.”
With their unwavering dedication, Marc and Chloé exemplify the spirit of perseverance and leadership in sports. Their achievements not only bring pride to NDU but also inspire a new generation of athletes and sports professionals. We look forward to seeing them continue to break barriers on the global stage.