Almost four years ago in the first mixed team aerials competition at the Winter Olympics in Beijing, three Canadian athletes secured bronze medals. Lewis Irving, Marion Thénault, and Miha Fontaine, the first Canadians to achieve an Olympic podium in this event since 2002, are aiming for another podium finish next year. They are preparing at the Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park in Italy, where they will showcase their skills amidst a crowd of 3,000 spectators.
Before the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, the trio is training at Genting Snow Park in China, where they previously won bronze medals in Beijing. Reflecting on their past experience and setting their sights on the upcoming games, they are determined to succeed in February.
Fontaine emphasized the importance of enjoying the sport to enhance performance, as he looks to introduce new challenging moves at the Winter Olympics. Thénault, focusing on sustainability, aims to make her trip environmentally friendly while striving for a podium finish. Irving, drawing on his extensive experience, aims to excel on the World Cup circuit and hopes to secure two medals at the upcoming Winter Olympics.
The team is familiar with the challenges and opportunities presented at the Livigno Aerials & Moguls Park, having competed there in the past. They are prepared for unpredictable weather conditions and are determined to deliver exceptional performances at the Winter Olympics. The trio’s dedication and readiness promise an exciting and competitive event ahead, with a focus on gender balance and high-level competition.
