Charles Hamelin, a retired Canadian speed skater, recently reflected on his absence from the Winter Olympics for the first time in 20 years. Although he does not miss the competition, he acknowledges the unique experience of the Olympics. Hamelin expressed feeling a “lot of apprehension” about the Canadian short track speed skating team amid the current Olympic scene.
Hamelin’s Olympic Journey
Hamelin’s illustrious career included participation in five Olympic Games, starting in 2006 in Turin. He won a silver medal in the 5000-meter relay. His journey concluded at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, where he earned another gold medal in the men’s relay.
Over his Olympic appearances, Hamelin accumulated a total of six medals, four of which are gold. He fondly remembers the opening ceremony of the Olympics, wishing he could relive those moments.
Experiencing the Olympics from Home
- Retired since 2022, Hamelin watches the Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina from his home in Sainte-Julie.
- He shares these experiences with his daughters, Violette and Ludivine.
- The family enjoys watching speed skating sessions together, establishing a routine of early morning viewings.
In 2014, 2018, and 2022, Hamelin and his daughters kept the tradition of waking up early for the Olympic events. While he rises at 4 AM, the girls join him around 6 AM.
Coaching Young Talent
For the past two years, Hamelin has been an assistant coach at the Canadian Regional Training Centre (CRCE). He trains young athletes aged 15 to 19, aiming to help them achieve spots on the national team.
Currently, he is responsible for coaching approximately 40 elite skaters from Quebec and Canada. His experience and dedication to training the next generation are evident as he guides emerging talents in short track speed skating.
Impressive Achievements in Speed Skating
In discussions, Hamelin also addressed several notable names in the sport, including skater Kim Boutin, who recently earned her fifth Olympic medal. He shares an interesting bond with Boutin, predicting her potential to match or exceed his medal count.
- Hamelin and Boutin are recognized figures in Canadian speed skating.
- Boutin is on pace to become one of the most decorated female skaters in her discipline.
Returning to Sainte-Julie
In October 2024, Hamelin and his family returned to Sainte-Julie. His brother, François Hamelin, also an Olympic gold medalist, lives nearby. Their children are involved with the local speed skating club, Les Fines Lames.
Charles and François began their skating careers with this very organization, which has been active for over 45 years. Together, the two champions are dedicated to nurturing the future of speed skating, often seen coaching and cheering for the next generation at the Sainte-Julie arena.
In honor of his legacy, one of the rinks at the arena now bears Hamelin’s name, symbolizing his significant contributions to the sport and his community.
