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Canada Claims Historic Figure Skating Silver

  //sports-competition.news-articles.net/content/2 .. anada-claims-historic-figure-skating-silver.html
  Published in Sports and Competition on Friday, February 13th 2026 at 6:49 GMT by Global News
      Locales: ITALY, CHINA, CANADA

Beijing, China - February 13th, 2026 - Day 7 of the Winter Olympics in Beijing has delivered a mixed bag of results, thrilling victories, and frustrating delays, largely due to increasingly challenging weather conditions. From figure skating breakthroughs to dominant performances in speed skating, and a concerning rise in COVID-19 cases amongst athletes, the Games continue to navigate the complexities of competition during a global pandemic and unpredictable natural elements.

Figure Skating Team Event: Canada Secures Silver in Historic First

The figure skating team event concluded today, with Canada claiming a historic silver medal - their first-ever in this relatively young Olympic discipline. The Canadian team showcased impressive consistency across all disciplines, spearheaded by strong performances in the ice dance and pairs segments. Madison Chock and Evan Bates delivered a captivating ice dance rhythm program, setting the tone for the team. Kirsten Moore-Towers and Derrick Delmore followed suit, claiming victory in the pairs rhythm portion of the event. While details regarding the gold medal winner remain fluid, Canada's achievement signifies a notable advancement in their figure skating program, suggesting a strong future for the sport in the nation.

The team event, introduced to the Olympic program in 2014, has quickly become a fan favorite, combining the skill and artistry of all figure skating disciplines into one cohesive competition. Canada's success demonstrates their growing depth and competitiveness in a field historically dominated by Russia and the United States.

Snowboarding Under the Weather: High Winds Cause Disruptions

Unfortunately, the mountain weather continues to wreak havoc on the snowboarding schedule. High winds forced the postponement of the men's snowboard cross race, originally slated for today, to Wednesday. This isn't an isolated incident; several snowboarding events have experienced delays or cancellations throughout the week, raising concerns about the feasibility of completing the entire program. Organizers are working diligently to adjust the schedule, prioritizing athlete safety while attempting to maintain the integrity of the competition. The unpredictability of mountain conditions is a constant challenge at the Winter Olympics, requiring athletes and officials to be adaptable and prepared for last-minute changes.

Hockey: Canadian Women Triumph, Men Suffer Setback

The Canadian women's hockey team continued their dominant run, securing a resounding 8-0 victory over Switzerland. This emphatic win underscores their status as one of the favorites for gold. The Canadian offense proved unstoppable, showcasing a combination of skill, speed, and tactical prowess. The team's impressive performance sets the stage for what promises to be a thrilling showdown in the later stages of the tournament.

However, the Canadian men's hockey team faced a disappointing 3-2 loss to Sweden. Despite a valiant effort, they were unable to overcome a determined Swedish side. This defeat puts pressure on the Canadian men to regroup and secure crucial points in their remaining matches. The competition in men's hockey is particularly fierce this year, with several teams demonstrating the ability to challenge for a medal.

Speed Skating: Irene Wust Adds Another Gold to Her Legacy

Irene Wust of the Netherlands cemented her status as a speed skating legend, winning the women's 1,500-metre race. This victory marks her fifth Olympic gold medal, adding to an already impressive collection of accolades. Wust's remarkable consistency and unwavering determination have made her a dominant force in speed skating for over a decade. Her performance today serves as a testament to her dedication and athletic prowess.

The Netherlands has historically been a powerhouse in speed skating, consistently producing world-class athletes. Wust's success is a source of national pride and an inspiration to aspiring speed skaters worldwide.

COVID-19 Concerns: Another Athlete Tests Positive

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic continues to cast a shadow over the Games. Alpine skier Jan Stranger of the Czech Republic has tested positive for the virus, adding to the growing number of athletes affected. Strict protocols are in place to minimize the spread of the virus, including regular testing, mask-wearing, and social distancing. However, the highly contagious nature of the virus presents a constant challenge. The health and safety of athletes, officials, and the local population remain the top priority for organizers.

Looking Ahead: Weather Remains a Key Factor

With high winds predicted to persist, the weather will undoubtedly continue to play a significant role in the coming days. Organizers will be closely monitoring conditions and making necessary adjustments to the schedule. Despite the challenges, athletes are determined to give their best and showcase their talents on the Olympic stage. The Beijing Winter Olympics are proving to be a test of not only athletic ability but also resilience, adaptability, and a unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.