On thin ice: Canadian speed skaters fear loss of ice at Calgary’s Olympic Oval

The Calgary Olympic Oval, home to the fastest ice in the world, is facing a critical situation. Built as a legacy of the 1988 Winter Games, the oval is now 38 years old and showing signs of age. The facility has been a hub for international, university, and community sports, producing 36 Olympic medals for speedskaters like Catriona Le May Doan, Cindy Klassen, Clara Hughes, and Denny Morrison.

However, the Oval’s infrastructure is deteriorating, with an increasing number of brine leaks in the 400 pipe connections under its floor. Mark Messer, the Oval’s director, acknowledges that the only solution is to replace the floor, as the current situation is unsustainable. Without the ability to make ice, the Oval would lose its essence as an ice building.

Despite its challenges, the Oval continues to host world-class events like World Cups and world championships. However, Olympic medallists on Canada’s long-track team are concerned about the facility’s ability to hold up until the next Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. Ivanie Blondin and Isabelle Weidemann express their worries about the potential failure of the ice system, emphasizing the impact it would have on their training and preparation for upcoming competitions.

The Oval holds a special place in the hearts of many athletes, including over a dozen players from Canada’s Olympic women’s hockey teams. With over 300 speedskating world records set in Calgary, the Oval has been a historic venue for the sport. However, newer facilities like Salt Lake City’s oval have started to overshadow Calgary in the competition for the title of fastest ice in the world.

To address the Oval’s urgent needs, a $60-million renovation is required, including floor replacement, ice plant upgrades, and improved accessibility. While the facility operates on a combination of endowment funds, university funding, and generated revenue, major capital improvements are beyond its current financial capacity. The Alberta government is advocating for federal support to ensure the Oval’s continued operation and legacy.

Despite the challenges ahead, Messer remains hopeful for the Oval’s future. The facility’s unique ownership structure poses challenges in accessing government funding, but efforts are being made to secure the necessary support. As athletes like Blondin and Weidemann face the uncertainty of the Oval’s future, they reflect on the impact it has had on their careers and the Canadian sports community.

In conclusion, the Calgary Olympic Oval stands at a crossroads, with its future hanging in the balance. The facility’s rich history and contributions to Canadian sports make it a vital part of the country’s sport legacy. As stakeholders work towards securing the necessary funding for renovations, the hope is that the Oval will continue to serve athletes and the community for years to come.