The 2026 Milan Cortina Games have already provided a thrilling showcase of talent, with Canadian athletes making headlines on multiple fronts. From an emotional bronze medal win in ice dance to a nail-biting curling match, the events of Wednesday, February 11, highlighted the competitive spirit and determination of Canada’s winter sports representatives.
Gilles and Poirier Capture Bronze in Ice Dance
Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier have finally secured their place on the Olympic podium, clinching a bronze medal in ice dance. The Toronto-based duo performed a breathtaking free dance set to Govardo’s rendition of “Vincent,” which resonated with both the judges and the audience. After their score was announced, Gilles erupted with joy, a culmination of years of hard work and near-misses in previous Olympic competitions.
The gold medal went to France’s Laurence Fournier Beaudry, a Montreal native, alongside her partner Guillaume Cizeron, while the silver was claimed by American champions Madison Chock and Evan Bates. This achievement marks Canada’s first Olympic figure skating medal since the 2018 Pyeongchang Games, reigniting hope for future successes in this beloved sport.
A Clutch Performance in Curling
In the men’s curling competition, Team Jacobs delivered a nail-biting performance against Germany’s Marc Muskatewitz. The Calgary-based squad triumphed 7-6 in an intense match that extended to an extra end, with Jacobs sealing the victory with a crucial hit in the 11th end. This win is a promising start for Canada as they aim to reclaim the Olympic men’s team gold, a title they last held in 2014.
As the competition progresses, Team Jacobs will look to build on this victory, showcasing the resilience and skill that Canada is known for on the international curling scene.
Slafkovský Shines in Men’s Hockey
Montreal Canadiens forward Juraj Slafkovský has made a spectacular return to the Olympic stage, scoring two goals in Slovakia’s opening game against Finland, leading his team to a 4-1 victory. Slafkovský, who was a standout player at the 2022 Beijing Games, continues to impress, having previously netted a tournament-leading seven goals and helped Slovakia secure a bronze medal. His performance here not only solidifies his reputation but also highlights the potential for further success in the tournament.
Schwinghammer’s Narrow Miss
Saskatchewan’s Maia Schwinghammer narrowly missed out on a medal in the women’s freeski moguls, finishing fifth with a score of 77.61 points. Just 0.39 points shy of the bronze medal, her performance was nevertheless commendable and highlights her potential as she prepares for the upcoming women’s dual moguls event on Saturday, where she will have another opportunity to showcase her skills.
Rarefied Air in Alpine Skiing
Swiss skier Franjo von Allmen made waves in the alpine skiing events by securing his third gold medal in the men’s super-G, a feat only achieved by two other alpine legends in Olympic history. This remarkable accomplishment places von Allmen among the greats, inspiring young athletes and adding to the competitive nature of the Games.
Why it Matters
The successes of Canadian athletes at the Milan Cortina Games not only elevate national pride but also serve as a testament to the hard work and dedication of these sportspeople. As they strive for excellence on the world stage, their achievements capture the hearts of fans across Canada and beyond, fostering a sense of unity and inspiration as the country rallies behind its athletes in pursuit of Olympic glory.
