In a highly anticipated showdown, Madeline Schizas and Gabrielle Daleman are set to compete for Canada’s sole Olympic spot in women’s figure skating. The event will unfold at the Canadian Figure Skating Championships this weekend, where the women’s short program is scheduled for Saturday, followed by the free program on Sunday. The winner will secure their place at the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympic Games.
Madeline Schizas: A Determined Front-Runner
Madeline Schizas, the reigning national champion, has asserted her commitment to uphold her position as Canada’s top skater. The 22-year-old, hailing from Oakville, Ontario, has rapidly established herself as a force in the sport since her Olympic debut in 2022. Scoring three national titles in four years, she placed 11th at the last world championships and holds the highest international score for any Canadian woman this season at 188.60, achieved at the Finlandia Trophy in late November.
Assessing the Competition
Schizas acknowledges the challenges posed by Daleman’s return. “She’s clearly put a lot of work into coming back,” Schizas remarked. Yet her competitive spirit is unwavering. “Over my dead body is anyone else going to the Olympics,” she declared, highlighting her determination.
Gabrielle Daleman: A Remarkable Comeback
Gabrielle Daleman, now 28, is making her return to the Canadian championships after facing serious injuries. She is determined to become the first Canadian woman to compete in three Olympic Games. Daleman’s journey has been marked by significant challenges, including a severe car accident and multiple surgeries.
Challenges and Triumphs
After enduring two ankle surgeries in 2023 and 2024, Daleman struggled with depression but found renewed motivation during recovery. “You’ll have a year to recover; you need to lock in if this is what you really want to do,” she reminded herself. This mentality fueled her comprehensive training in Colorado Springs, where she focused solely on her comeback.
Daleman’s perseverance paid off when she clinched gold at the Ice Challenge in Austria with a score of 181.04, re-establishing her presence in the competitive landscape.
Upcoming Contenders
Another skater making waves is Sara-Maude Dupuis, last year’s national silver medalist. At just 20 years old, she became the first Canadian woman to successfully land a triple axel during the Warsaw Cup in November. “I’m really proud to have been able to bring it to competition this time,” Dupuis stated, indicating her desire to prove her skills on the national stage.
The Competition Landscape
- Madeline Schizas: Reigning national champion, highest international score this season.
- Gabrielle Daleman: Aiming for her third Olympics after overcoming injuries.
- Sara-Maude Dupuis: Last year’s silver medalist, notable for landing a triple axel.
As the competition intensifies at the Canadian Figure Skating Championships, Schizas, Daleman, and Dupuis each bring unique strengths to the ice. The outcome will determine who will represent Canada at the upcoming Olympic Games in Milan.
