Lia Pereira and Trennt Michaud found themselves in the mixed zone, answering questions, when they saw the scores on a nearby television screen change the game. The Canadian duo, accustomed to being second to world champions Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps, realized they had clinched their first national title on the spot.
Pereira exclaimed, “Oh my God! We won!” in disbelief before embracing Michaud, who was overwhelmed with tears of joy. The scores that flashed were from Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps, whose flawed performance in the free skate secured Pereira and Michaud’s unexpected victory at the Canadian figure skating championships.
Scoring 135.03 points in their free program with their “Gladiator” routine, Pereira and Michaud surpassed Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps by 12.02 points, making up for a nine-point deficit from the previous day’s short program. They finished with a total of 204.14 points, claiming the gold, while Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps settled for silver, and Kelly Ann Laurin and Loucas Éthier took bronze.
“This is what we live for,” Michaud expressed, with Pereira adding, “This is unbelievable.” Pereira highlighted their dedication and hard work over the three-and-a-half years of partnership, emphasizing the significance of this victory.
Pereira, 21, and Michaud, 29, teamed up in August 2022 after Michaud’s former partner retired. Michaud had predicted their national championship win from the start, recalling their initial training days and his vision of multiple gold medals, to which Pereira admitted he was right.
Despite their victory, Pereira and Michaud were focused on the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympics. Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps, despite their setbacks at the championship, were also preparing for the Winter Games, aiming to overcome challenges and fulfill their Olympic aspirations.
As they move forward, both pairs are determined to make the most of their Olympic opportunities, showcasing resilience and determination in pursuit of their goals.
