In an exhilarating display of skill and determination, Canadian freestyle skiers Megan Oldham and Naomi Urness have both clinched places in the women’s slopestyle finals at the upcoming Milan-Cortina Olympics. Competing in Livigno, Oldham secured her spot with a score of 61.09, finishing seventh in the qualifiers, just ahead of Urness, who scored 58.40 to place eighth. This marks a significant achievement for both athletes as they prepare to face off against the world’s best.
Oldham and Urness: A Tale of Determination
Megan Oldham, hailing from Parry Sound, Ontario, demonstrated her prowess on the slopes by finishing fourth in her initial run. Despite her strong start, she was unable to improve upon her score during the second run. Nonetheless, her qualification is notable, especially considering the pressure of competing on such a grand stage. Having previously medalled at the 2025 FIS Freestyle World Championships, Oldham is currently ranked third on the World Cup circuit, adding to the anticipation surrounding her Olympic debut.
Naomi Urness, representing Mont-Tremblant, Quebec, faced a tougher journey. After finishing 15th in her first qualifying run, she needed to elevate her score by over six points to secure a top-12 finish. The determination she displayed in her second attempt paid off, allowing her to advance to the finals. This will be Urness’s first Olympic experience, and it is particularly significant as it marks her initial entrance into a slopestyle final outside of the X Games.
A Competitive Field Awaits
The competition in Livigno was fierce, with reigning Olympic champion Mathilde Gremaud from Switzerland showcasing her dominance by scoring 79.15 points. Meanwhile, Chinese star Eileen Gu, despite a fall in her first run, managed to recover and finish second with a score of 75.30. The presence of such elite competitors adds an extra layer of challenge for the Canadian duo as they prepare for the finals.
Other Canadians, Skye Clarke and Elena Gaskell, unfortunately struggled during their runs, finishing in 21st and 23rd places, respectively. Their experiences highlight the unpredictable nature of freestyle skiing, where even the most skilled athletes can face setbacks.
Looking Ahead: Men’s Freestyle Skiing
As the women’s competition wraps up, the focus will soon shift to the men’s freestyle skiers, who are set to take on the Livigno snow park later today. Evan McEachern from Oakville, Ontario, is the sole Canadian representative in this category, further emphasizing the importance of these events for Canadian winter sports.
Why it Matters
The advancement of Oldham and Urness to the finals not only signifies a personal triumph for both athletes but also represents a broader narrative of Canadian excellence in winter sports. Their performances at the Milan-Cortina Olympics could inspire a new generation of skiers and reinforce Canada’s reputation as a powerhouse in freestyle skiing. As they gear up for the finals, the spotlight will be on their ability to rise to the occasion and potentially secure medals for their country on this prestigious international stage.
