From Sparkly Outfits to Maple Leaf Mittens

I’ve got to admit something right up front:

I’m that person who gets genuinely thrilled when the Winter Olympics roll around. You’ve probably figured that out already if you’ve listened to me on the news—I know I talk about the Games a lot when they’re on… I just can’t help it. I’m so excited, and I want to share that with you! But my love for the Games didn’t start with medals or opening ceremonies—it began with sparkly skating outfits. Yup, I’ll own it. Figure skating was my gateway sport.

The first time I remember feeling something bigger than just “ooh, pretty costumes” was back in grade six during the Nagano Olympics. That year was special—not only did snowboarding, curling, and women’s ice hockey make their Olympic debuts, but I was completely obsessed with figure skating. I followed every jump, spin, and program from my favourites: Elvis Stojko, Shae-Lynn Bourne and Victor Kraatz, and the incredible Michelle Kwan and Tara Lipinski. My teacher had us learning about Japan, and we followed the Games as part of the class. That’s when I first understood what Canadian pride really felt like—cheering for our athletes, feeling that pulse of excitement every time someone from Canada hit the podium. It was more than a sport; it was a shared moment that made me feel connected to something bigger.

Over the years, I’ve been hooked. I enjoy the Summer Games, of course, but something about the Winter Olympics that grabs me every time. They always bring back that same thrill—though the 2010 Vancouver Games really took it to a whole new level. Canada hosting the Olympics felt huge. It was only the third time our country had done it: Montreal 1976, Calgary 1988, and then Vancouver 2010. I wasn’t around for the first, too young to fully grasp the second, so 2010 became my Olympics.