As the countdown to the Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics begins, Canada’s snowboard cross squad is gearing up for an exhilarating competition. Key athletes Éliot Grondin and Meryeta O’Dine lead a talented roster of 13 competitors announced by Canada Snowboard and the Canadian Olympic Committee. Both Grondin and O’Dine have made their mark on the international stage, and they are primed to represent Canada once more in the quest for Olympic glory.
Grondin and O’Dine: Olympic Experience
Éliot Grondin, the reigning men’s snowboard cross world champion and two-time World Cup Crystal Globe winner, is a familiar face on the Olympic scene. Hailing from Sainte-Marie, Quebec, he secured a silver medal in the snowboard cross event at the 2022 Beijing Games. “I am honoured to be named to the Canadian team for the third time in my career,” Grondin expressed. “It is always a privilege to wear Canada’s colours at the Olympic Games when all eyes are on us. I am confident in my ability to perform well at these Games, but my primary goal is to enjoy the moment and have fun on each of my runs. I know that if I do that, I have a good chance of winning a medal.”
Meryeta O’Dine, from Prince George, British Columbia, is no stranger to success either, having clinched a bronze medal in the women’s snowboard cross at Beijing 2022, followed by another bronze in the mixed team event alongside Grondin. Their combined experience and talent will be crucial as they aim to add to Canada’s medal tally in Milan.
A Strong Supporting Cast
Joining Grondin and O’Dine in the snowboard cross category are a robust group of athletes: Liam Moffat from Truro, Nova Scotia; Evan Bichon of Mackenzie, British Columbia; Tess Critchlow from Kelowna, British Columbia; and Audrey McManiman of Saint-Ambroise-de-Kildare, Quebec. Each of these competitors brings unique skills and a competitive spirit to the team, setting the stage for a dynamic performance on the world stage.
In the halfpipe discipline, Elizabeth Hosking leads a trio of talented female snowboarders. The Longueuil, Quebec native recently secured a silver medal at the world championships and celebrated a gold medal victory in Calgary earlier this month. She will be joined by fellow Calgarians Brooke D’Hondt and Felicity Geremia, who will look to make their mark in the halfpipe event.
Representing Canada in the parallel giant slalom are Kaylie Buck from Oakville, Ontario; Arnaud Gaudet of Montcalm, Quebec; Ben Heldman from Toronto; and Aurélie Moisan of Baie-D’Urfé, Quebec. This diverse group reflects the growing depth and talent within Canadian snowboarding, setting the stage for exciting competitions across all categories.
Key Dates for the Events
The snowboard events will unfold in Livigno Snow Park, with the parallel giant slalom event kicking off on February 8, 2026. Following that, the snowboard halfpipe qualifications will be held on February 11, culminating in the women’s final on February 12. The snowboard cross individual events are slated for February 12 and 13, with the mixed team event scheduled for February 15. With such a packed schedule, fans can expect thrilling contests and outstanding displays of athleticism.
Why it Matters
The participation of athletes like Grondin and O’Dine at the Milan Cortina Olympics not only showcases Canada’s prowess in winter sports but also serves to inspire the next generation of snowboarders. Their journey—marked by hard work, resilience, and a passion for the sport—highlights the importance of fostering talent in Canada’s diverse athletic landscape. As the nation rallies behind its athletes, the upcoming Games are set to be a showcase of skill, determination, and national pride.
