Weekend recap: Blondin leads Canada’s medal winners
Canada’s Olympic athletes had a stellar weekend with impressive performances across various sports. Speed skater Ivanie Blondin shone brightly as she secured a complete set of medals at the long track World Cup season opener in Japan. She claimed gold in the women’s 3,000 meters, silver in the mass start, and a bronze in the mixed relay. Blondin’s outstanding display of skill and determination marked a remarkable start to the season for Canada’s long track skaters.
In figure skating, ice dancers Marjorie Lajoie and Zachary Lagha clinched a spot in the Grand Prix Final with a silver medal at the Cup of China. Their consistent performances throughout the season earned them a coveted place in the prestigious event alongside other top contenders. While Lia Pereira and Trennt Michaud also impressed with a bronze in the pairs event, no Canadians qualified for the Final in the individual men’s or women’s events.
Meanwhile, golfer Brooke Henderson wrapped up the year on a high note, finishing tied for eighth at the LPGA Tour Championship in Naples, Florida. Henderson’s strong showing earned her a substantial payday, highlighting her prowess on the course. The tournament saw Thailand’s Jeeno Thitikul make history with a record-breaking winner’s prize in women’s golf.
In other Canadian results, athletes across various disciplines showcased their talent on the global stage. Reigning women’s skeleton world champion Hallie Clarke put in a solid performance in Beijing, finishing seventh in the World Cup race. Ski jumping world champion Alexandria Loutitt and her teammate Abigail Strate displayed their skills in the women’s large hill events in Lillehammer, while Laurence St-Germain competed in the women’s slalom in Austria. Freestyle skiers Olivia Asselin and Megan Oldham also made their mark in the slopestyle World Cup opener in Austria.
The weekend’s achievements underscored the depth of talent and the competitive spirit of Canada’s Olympic athletes. As the season progresses, fans can look forward to more thrilling performances and memorable moments from these dedicated and skilled individuals.