Milan Cortina Olympics: Athletes Proud to Represent Canada Amidst Political Storm

When U.S. President Donald Trump attacked skier Hunter Hess, calling him a “real loser” for expressing mixed emotions about representing the U.S., it sent shockwaves through the Milan Cortina Olympics. The incident highlighted the political divisions in the U.S. and the infiltration of politics into these Winter Games.

“I’ve never felt so supported in my entire life,” said Embyr-Lee Susko, a Canadian luge competitor at the Milan Cortina Olympics.

– Embyr-Lee Susko, Canadian luge competitor

Canadian Athletes: Proud to Wear the Maple Leaf

Canadian athletes, witnessing the controversy, felt a renewed sense of pride in representing their country. Several athletes expressed their appreciation for the red Canadian tracksuit, feeling it represented something more significant than just a uniform.

“It’s difficult to see [the controversy], but at the same time, I could not be more proud to be Canadian,” said Erin Ambrose, a Canadian hockey player from Keswick, Ont.

Canada on the World Stage

Adam van Koeverden, a federal MP and former Olympian representing the Canadian government at the Milan Cortina Games, was taken aback by the attack on Hunter Hess. He expressed solidarity with the U.S. skier and praised his composure.

Van Koeverden reflected on his family’s history, noting that Italy played a crucial role in his mother’s family fleeing oppression in Hungary 70 years ago. He has seen an upswell in support for Canada from other countries’ representatives at the Winter Games.

Sport as a Uniting Force

Despite the political turmoil, athletes like Trinity Ellis, a Canadian luger from Pemberton, B.C., remain optimistic about the unifying power of sport. “I hope that the Olympics can do that in this time − which is a bit fraught politically,” she said.

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