In a heart-stopping performance at the Winter Olympics, Maïa Schwinghammer, Canada’s rising star in freestyle moguls, narrowly missed out on a medal, finishing fifth in a highly competitive event on Wednesday. The 24-year-old from Saskatchewan delivered a commendable first run under the sunny skies of Livigno, Italy, but fell short in the final round, concluding her Olympic debut with a mere 0.39 points separating her from the podium.
A Strong Start in Challenging Conditions
Schwinghammer’s journey began on an unusually warm day in one of the Olympic mountain towns, where she showcased her skills among 20 formidable competitors. Her initial performance earned her a sixth-place finish, securing her a spot in the second and final run. However, despite her promising start, the second run did not go as planned, resulting in a fifth-place finish overall, just shy of a medal.
The gold medal was clinched by American Elizabeth Lemley, whose impressive execution outshone her competitors. Jaelin Kauf, also from the United States, took silver while France’s Perrine Laffont secured the bronze. Notably, defending Olympic champion Jakara Anthony from Australia, who was a favourite heading into the event, stumbled in the final round and finished in eighth.
Schwinghammer’s Olympic Experience
Despite the disappointment of missing the podium, Schwinghammer remained upbeat following her race. Reflecting on her experience, she expressed pride in managing her nerves on such a grand stage. “I am so proud of the way I was able to handle my nerves,” she shared with reporters. “Wow, the Olympics are for real; it’s nerve-wracking and stressful, but what an incredible experience.”
Schwinghammer has had a remarkable trajectory leading to the Games, having earned her first World Cup victory in January 2025 during the FIS Freestyle Ski World Cup. However, her path to the Olympics has not been without challenges. “I’ve had a tough season on my skis this year,” she admitted. “I have been battling some injuries and some lack of confidence in my skiing and missed some training camps.”
Looking Ahead: The Dual Moguls Race
With her Olympic journey still ongoing, Schwinghammer is set to compete in the dual moguls event this Sunday, a new addition to the Olympic programme. This could present another opportunity for her to claim a coveted medal. Meanwhile, her teammate Mikaël Kingsbury, a prominent figure in the sport, will be competing in the men’s moguls on Thursday. At 33 years old, Kingsbury has indicated that this may be his final Olympic appearance, with his family cheering him on from the side.
Why it Matters
Schwinghammer’s performance at the Olympics not only highlights the intense competition of the freestyle moguls event but also underscores the challenges many athletes face on the road to such a prestigious platform. Her resilience in overcoming personal adversities, coupled with her evident passion for the sport, positions her as a key figure in Canada’s winter sports narrative. As she continues her Olympic journey, the dual moguls race offers a fresh chance for glory, and her experience could inspire a new generation of athletes eager to make their mark in freestyle skiing.
