Madeline Schizas delivered a strong message to potential challengers eyeing her top position, and she backed it up by securing her fourth Canadian figure skating championship title. This win solidified her hold on the sole women’s singles entry for the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympic Games. Schizas had boldly stated just days before the competition that no one would take her place at the Olympics, emphasizing her determination to fight for her spot.
The 22-year-old skater from Oakville, Ont., impressed with a score of 135.94 points in her free skate routine to “Butterfly Lovers Concerto,” achieving a total winning score of 200.86 and moving up from fourth to first place. Gabrielle Daleman, a two-time Olympian, claimed the silver medal with 195.35 points, marking her return to nationals after a hiatus due to back and ankle injuries.
Daleman, on the cusp of turning 28, aimed to become the first Canadian women’s singles skater to participate in three Olympics. Despite facing challenges in her performance, she expressed a mix of emotions, acknowledging the journey she had overcome to reach the national podium.
In the ice dance category, Gilles and Poirier clinched their fifth Canadian title with a stellar performance in the “Vincent” free dance routine. They set a new Canadian record with a total score of 231.05, further solidifying their dominance in the competition.
Minsol Kwon, hailing from South Korea, secured the bronze medal with a score of 193.18, showcasing her talent despite not being able to represent Canada internationally yet. The competition was fierce, with tight margins differentiating the top contenders vying for coveted Olympic spots.
As the championships concluded, the focus shifted to the selection of the complete Olympic team by Skate Canada, with seven entries set to represent the country in various figure skating disciplines. The anticipation for the upcoming Winter Games in Milan Cortina continues to build, with athletes like Schizas and Gilles and Poirier poised to shine on the international stage.
