Canadian Women’s Speed Skating Team Secures Consecutive Olympic Gold in Pursuit
Canada’s women’s speed skating team showcased their dominance once again by winning Olympic gold in the team pursuit event. The trio of Isabelle Weidemann, Valérie Maltais, and Ivanie Blondin secured victory over the Netherlands at the Milano Speed Skating Stadium. They completed the six-lap race in a remarkable time of 2 minutes 55.80 seconds, while the Dutch team finished in 2:56.77.
Historic Repeat Champions
This victory marks a significant achievement for the Canadian team, as they became the first to defend their Olympic title in the women’s team pursuit since Germany did so in 2010. Four years earlier, Canada set a Games record in Beijing, defeating Japan with a time of 2:53.44.
Path to the Final
- Semifinal: Canada defeated the United States with a time of 2:55.92 against 3:00.14.
- Netherlands advanced with a semifinal time of 2:55.84, narrowly beating Japan’s 2:55.95.
- Quarterfinals: Canada posted a strong time of 2:55.03.
Earlier in the Games, Maltais earned a bronze medal in the women’s 3,000 metres event, contributing to Canada’s overall success in Milan, where the team has achieved a total of four silver and five bronze medals.
Celebrating Success
The trio continues to build on their success, having secured eight individual World Cup medals this season, including one gold, four silvers, and three bronzes. Their victory in the team pursuit is a testament to their training and determination.
For the Canadian women’s speed skating team, this Olympic gold reinforces their status as one of the leading teams in the sport. Their efforts exemplify the spirit of competition and excellence that defines Olympic athletes.
