Weekend recap: Summer McIntosh ends her year in style

Canadian athletes have been making waves on the international stage as they continue to excel in their respective sports. From swimming to short track speed skating to para hockey, there have been plenty of standout performances from our Canadian athletes.

In swimming, Summer McIntosh has had a phenomenal year, capping it off with another gold and silver at the short-course world championships in Budapest. McIntosh, only 18 years old, set three short-course world records during the week and earned multiple gold medals. Her impressive performances earned her the title of World Aquatics female swimmer of the year, as well as the Canadian athlete of the year award. McIntosh’s success in 2024 includes three gold medals at the Paris Olympics and a Canadian record in the 400 IM at the Canadian Olympic trials.

Mary-Sophie Harvey also had a stellar showing, winning a silver in the women’s 200m freestyle and earning her fifth medal of the meet. In short track speed skating, William Dandjinou dominated once again, winning two gold medals in Seoul to extend his lead in the overall standings. The Canadian short track speed skating team added eight more medals to their tally, including four golds.

In para hockey, Canada fell to the United States in the final of the Para Cup, continuing their rivalry with the Americans. The U.S. secured their ninth consecutive Para Cup title with a 4-1 victory over Canada. In snowboard cross, Éliot Grondin finished fourth in the season opener after crashing in the final, while Tess Critchlow placed 16th in the women’s event. Canada’s ski cross racers fared better, with Marielle Thompson winning a gold and a bronze, and Kevin Drury taking two bronze medals.

Other notable Canadian results include the women’s 3×3 basketball team winning gold at the AmeriCup, cross-country skiers Sonjaa Schmidt and Liliane Gagnon finishing fifth in a World Cup race, ski jumper Alexandria Loutitt placing eighth and 12th in World Cup events, and bobsleigh pilot Melissa Lotholz placing 10th and 12th in World Cup races.

Overall, Canadian athletes have continued to shine on the international stage, showcasing their talent and determination in their respective sports. Their hard work and dedication have not gone unnoticed, and they continue to make Canada proud with their impressive performances.