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Canada’s speed skating team prepares for the 2026 Winter Olympics
As the 2026 Winter Olympics draw near, Canada’s long track speed skating team aims to make a noteworthy impression in Milan Cortina. The team consists of 15 athletes, including eight women and seven men, who are committed to building on their past achievements and contributing to the nation’s proud legacy in the sport. Leading this dedicated group is the exceptional Isabelle Weidemann, a triple medallist from the previous Olympics. She is focused not only on her individual success but also on inspiring her younger teammates throughout the competition.
Key athletes leading the charge
Among the standout competitors, Isabelle Weidemann, from Ottawa, has undergone a significant transformation over the past four years. With the experience of competing in two previous Olympic Games, she has embraced a leadership role within the team. “I’ve evolved both as an athlete and a person,” Weidemann stated. “I feel a strong responsibility to support the next generation of skaters.” This commitment to mentorship highlights her dedication to fostering talent and promoting a collaborative team spirit as they approach the upcoming competition.
Veterans and newcomers unite
Joining Isabelle Weidemann is the seasoned Valérie Maltais, who is preparing for her fifth Olympic appearance. Previously a competitor in short track events, Maltais is now focused on long track. “Competing for Canada always fills me with emotion,” she stated. “This time, I’ve learned so much and I’m excited to channel that experience into my performance.”
The squad also includes fresh talent, such as Béatrice Lamarche, a promising athlete who recently earned her first World Cup medal. “Representing Canada at this level is a dream come true,” Lamarche remarked. “I’m ready to show what I can do on the Olympic stage.”
Men’s team ambitions
The men’s contingent of the Canadian speed skating team boasts notable talents, including Olympic medallists Ted-Jan Bloemen and Laurent Dubreuil. Bloemen, a veteran with a gold medal from the PyeongChang Olympics, is determined to reclaim his place on the podium in both the 5000m and 10,000m events. At 39, he continues to be a formidable presence on the ice, having secured a silver medal in the 5000m during the recent World Cup season.
Aiming for personal bests
Laurent Dubreuil, who captured silver in the 1000m at the last Olympics, remains optimistic about his upcoming performance. “I’m focused on delivering my best performance,” Dubreuil stated. “While medals are the goal, my priority is to race with everything I have.” This commitment underscores the determination shared by his teammates, including first-time Olympians Anders Johnson and Cédrick Brunet, who are eager to make their own marks on the Olympic stage.
Building on past successes
Canada has a distinguished history in long track speed skating, securing a total of 42 Olympic medals since the Winter Games began in 1924. This remarkable achievement positions it as the country’s most decorated discipline in winter sports. With the current roster, Team Canada aims to enhance this legacy, combining explosive speed with the mental resilience necessary to thrive on the world stage.
As the athletes brace for the upcoming challenges, Jennifer Heil, the chef de mission for the Canadian Olympic team, underscores the importance of capitalizing on the moment in Milan Cortina. “Every race is an opportunity to showcase their skills and determination,” Heil stated. “I encourage our athletes to embrace the excitement and make the most of this incredible experience.”
The implications
With a blend of seasoned veterans and enthusiastic newcomers, Canada’s long track speed skating team is ready to compete fiercely at the upcoming Winter Olympics. The athletes are not only striving for personal accomplishments but also aiming to inspire the next generation of skaters. As they lace up their skates in Milan Cortina, the world will be watching to see how these talented individuals carry forward the spirit of Canadian speed skating.