Ever since speed skaters Ivanie Blondin, Valérie Maltais, and Isabelle Weidemann claimed team pursuit gold at the Beijing 2022 Olympics, competitors worldwide have been striving to match their performance. With the upcoming Winter Games on the horizon, the defending Olympic champions from Canada understand that they cannot afford to be complacent.
Blondin, Maltais, and Weidemann are currently in Salt Lake City for the initial World Cup event of the long track season, which is condensed due to the Milano-Cortina 2026 Games in February. Arriving a few days ahead of their Canadian teammates, the trio is focusing on team pursuit during a specialized camp to fine-tune their strategies for future success.
Although they have skated together previously in preparation for the 2025-26 season, this camp marks the first time they have exclusively concentrated on the discipline in which they clinched Olympic gold almost four years ago. Witnessing their rivals surpass them has prompted a reevaluation of their race tactics.
In the women’s team pursuit, two groups of three skaters each start simultaneously on opposite sides of a 400-metre oval, completing a total of six laps. Effective teamwork involves taking turns leading to minimize wind resistance, ensuring a synchronized finish that stops the clock only when all team members cross the line.
Reflecting on their debut at the 2019 world championships, where they secured a surprising fourth place despite one member lacking experience in the discipline, Maltais and Weidemann recall the chaotic race tactics that have since evolved into a more strategic approach.
Blondin acknowledges that their initial performance showcased the potential of their partnership, propelling them closer to their podium aspirations. As individual stars in speed skating, Weidemann, Blondin, and Maltais have achieved notable success in various events, further emphasizing their versatility and skill.
The trio’s journey towards refining their team pursuit tactics began post-2019, leading to a winning formula that propelled them to Olympic glory in Beijing 2022. However, subsequent world championships saw them face tougher competition, necessitating a shift in strategy to maintain their competitive edge.
Acknowledging the need for adaptation, Blondin emphasizes the importance of continuous improvement to meet evolving challenges and expectations. Despite the changes, their collective goal remains consistent: to push their limits, showcase their prowess as a team, and strive for excellence in every race.
In addition to on-ice strategies, the trio emphasizes the significance of off-ice bonding and communication in fostering a strong team dynamic. By supporting each other and maintaining open dialogue, they aim to enhance their cohesion and performance on the track.
As they gear up for Milano-Cortina, the Canadian speed skaters are poised to defend their title with determination and a relentless pursuit of excellence. While the pressure mounts and expectations rise, their focus remains on delivering their best performance and continuing to push the boundaries of their potential as a team.