Antoine Gélinas-Beaulieu showcased his prowess at the Canadian long track championships in Calgary after a 19-month hiatus from mass start events. The Sherbrooke speed skater displayed composure and patience throughout the 16-lap men’s competition before seizing victory in the final sprint with a time of 7:55.88. He outpaced his competitors, including Jake Weidemann from Ottawa and David LaRue from Montreal.
Gélinas-Beaulieu reflected on his success, noting the competitive field but expressing satisfaction with his performance. Valérie Maltais of La Baie dominated the women’s event, securing first place in 9:08.72 ahead of Rose-Anne Grenier and Darby Beeson. Maltais emphasized her confidence and determination to represent Canada at the upcoming World Cups.
Meanwhile, Ottawa’s Ivanie Blondin secured a prequalification for the World Cups based on her outstanding international performance last season. The selection for Canada’s World Cup team will be determined in the following weeks, taking into account the results of the recent championships and previous international achievements.