Kim Boutin and Canada’s mixed relay team clinched victory in the 2,000-metre race in Montreal on Sunday. (Photo credit: Graham Hughes/Canadian Press)
Canada’s short-track speed skating team brought home a double victory on Sunday, wrapping up a successful stretch at the ISU Short Track World Tour in Montreal. With standout performances in both the men's and mixed relay events, Team Canada ended the two-week event with an impressive total of 14 medals, including nine gold and two silver.
The Canadian team’s golden day began at Montreal's Maurice Richard Arena as the 2,000-meter mixed relay team—comprising Steven Dubois from Lachenaie, Kim Boutin and Felix Roussel from Sherbrooke, and Florence Brunelle from Trois-Rivieres—secured the top podium spot in the first relay event. The Canadians, racing against strong teams from the Netherlands and Japan, showcased their determination and strategy, leading the relay to a thrilling finish.
The mixed relay race was intense, with the teams jockeying for position throughout. Boutin made a critical push that allowed Brunelle to take the lead, outpacing the Dutch competitors. Roussel and Dubois continued the high-energy momentum, keeping Canada ahead and blocking a late attempt by the Netherlands to claim the victory. They crossed the finish line at 2:37.684, narrowly edging out the Netherlands, who finished at 2:37.960, and Japan, who came in at 2:40.162.
This win marked a significant milestone for Canada, as it was only the second time they had taken the top prize in the mixed relay event since it became part of the international circuit six years ago. Their previous gold was achieved at the World Cup in Almaty in 2018, with a team that included Boutin, Samuel Girard, Alyson Charles, and Cedrick Blais. The victory was a momentous one, underscoring the growth and depth of talent in Canadian short-track speed skating.
To end the day on another high note, Canada’s men’s relay team once again demonstrated their prowess. Dubois and Roussel joined forces with teammates William Dandjinou from Montreal and Jordan Pierre-Gilles from Sherbrooke to claim gold in the 5,000-meter relay, finishing with a time of 6:41.532. The victory in this marathon event showed the team’s exceptional stamina and coordination, helping them to maintain a lead and secure the win. This accomplishment further solidified their place as one of the world’s top teams in short-track speed skating.
With these wins, Canada capped off a triumphant two weeks on home ice, showcasing the strength of their national team and the potential of their athletes in short track. The Montreal event brought significant achievements, highlighted by the nine gold medals the team earned. Canada’s powerful showing in the relays not only celebrates their current success but also hints at even greater achievements to come in future international competitions.
