Valerie Maltais has made history for Canada by clinching a bronze medal in the women’s 3,000 meters at the Winter Olympics. This achievement marks Canada’s first medal of the games and is particularly special for Maltais, who is competing in her fifth Olympic event.
The 35-year-old speedskater from La Baie, Quebec, expressed her joy and relief after the race, stating, “I felt confident and I feel not surprised, but I feel relieved. I’m really emotional right now.” Maltais, who burst into tears upon securing her medal, acknowledged the preparation and dedication that led her to this moment, sharing her determination with her team earlier this season.
Maltais, who previously won a short-track silver medal in the relay during the 2014 Olympics, transitioned to long-track skating and has enjoyed success alongside teammates Ivanie Blondin and Isabelle Weidemann, with whom she won gold in the team pursuit in 2022.
During the competition in Milan, Maltais raced in the third-last pairing, finishing with a time of three minutes and 56.93 seconds. She initially placed second overall before being edged out by Norway’s Ragne Wilund, who crossed in 3:56.93. The gold medal went to Italy’s Francesca Lollobrigida, who set an Olympic record with a time of 3:54.28.
Reflecting on her performance, Maltais said, “It wasn’t easy. It was a challenge,” emphasizing her team’s motto of “going all in” this season without settling for less. Her successful run into the finals comes on the heels of an impressive season, where she earned a silver and two bronze medals in four World Cup events at the same distance.
Maltais’s achievement not only highlights her skill but also serves as an inspiration to athletes chasing their Olympic dreams.