Olympic medallist Summer McIntosh received a warm welcome from fans at Toronto's Pearson International Airport on Monday. Around 15 athletes were greeted as they returned from the Paris Olympics. (Christopher Katsarov/The Canadian Press)
Team Canada set a new record by securing nine gold medals and 27 medals overall, surpassing previous achievements from the Tokyo 2021 and Barcelona 1992 Olympics. The accomplishment was celebrated with fervour as the athletes arrived back home.
At Toronto's Pearson International Airport, around 15 athletes were greeted with cheers, flags, and emotional embraces. Among them was 17-year-old swimmer Summer McIntosh, who captured the nation’s attention by winning four medals, including three golds. She expressed deep gratitude for the support she felt from Canadians, both in Paris and back home. McIntosh had the honor of carrying the Canadian flag during the closing ceremony alongside gold-medal-winning hammer thrower Ethan Katzberg from Nanaimo, B.C.
Silver medallist rower Jessica Sevick, from Strathmore, Alberta, also returned to Toronto, her voice hoarse from celebrations. She was joined by her teammate Kristen Siermachesky, who reflected on the hard work that led to their success. The joy of their achievements was shared by other returning athletes, including swimmers Alex Axon, Ella Jansen, and Lorne Wigginton, all of whom made their Olympic debuts in Paris.
Amid the joyous homecoming, young Toronto skateboarder Fay De Fazio Ebert, who became Canada’s youngest Olympian since 1976, skated around the airport terminal. Though she placed 20th in her Olympic debut, she expressed pride in her efforts and excitement for the future.
In Montreal, the excitement continued as more athletes returned. Sylvain Fafard was among the many family members eagerly waiting at Montreal’s international airport. He was there to welcome his son, Thomas Fafard, who had made it to the final round of the men’s 5,000-metre event. Though Thomas faced challenges in the final, his father proudly recounted the experience of seeing his son compete on the world stage.
Diver Nathan Zsombor-Murray, who won a bronze medal in the men’s 10-metre synchronized platform event alongside partner Rylan Wiens, arrived in Montreal as well. Despite his achievement, Zsombor-Murray humbly kept his medal packed away, preferring to reflect on his journey and future goals. He hinted at a potential return for the 2028 Los Angeles Games, though he plans to focus on his studies for now.
Calgary diver Caeli McKay, who competed in the women’s 10-metre platform events, described the thrill of performing in front of a live audience, something she missed during the Tokyo Games due to the pandemic. Her husband, former Olympian Vincent Riendeau, cheered her on, adding a personal touch to her Olympic experience.
In a different, heartfelt story, Cedrick Belony-Duliepre, who lives in Montreal, chose to represent Haiti at the Games to honour his grandparents. Though he didn't advance past the round of 16 in men's boxing, his pride in representing his heritage was clear. Belony-Duliepre spoke of the decade-long journey that led him to this moment, a dream come true after years of dedication and hard work.
