Speed Skating Canada hosted the World Speed Skating Championships in Calgary for the first time since 1998. While we were optimistic about the turnout, we couldn’t be certain what to expect. Thursday and Friday exceeded our expectations with strong attendance. Then came Saturday. In partnership with the Calgary Stampede, we hosted a pancake breakfast for spectators – and the crowds just kept pouring in. Guests enjoyed pancakes and live music, creating an electric atmosphere. I’ll never forget standing at ice level, looking up at the crowd to see every seat filled, the standing areas packed, and fans cheering for the world’s top speed skaters, especially the Canadian athletes. It was an unforgettable moment where all the hard work of the Organizing Committee and our partners truly paid off. To top it all off, Team Canada had a record-breaking weekend, bringing home an incredible 10 medals!

Jill Lynch – Speed Skating Canada, ON