Calgary’s Olympic Oval faces urgent repairs as speedskaters fear ice loss ahead of the Winter Olympics
But now, the ice-making system is failing. There are leaks in the pipes under the floor, and it’s only a matter of time before it can’t make ice anymore. Mark Messer, the Oval’s director, says they’ve done all they can to maintain it. The only real fix is a complete floor replacement.
With the World Cup event coming up, speedskaters are anxious. Ivanie Blondin, an Olympic medallist, expressed her worries about the ice holding up until the next Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina. It’s a stressful situation for the athletes, and they feel the pressure.
The Oval has a rich history, with over 300 world records set there. But it needs a $60 million renovation to keep going. The funding is complicated since it’s on a university campus, and the government hasn’t stepped up yet.
Alberta’s Sports Minister is pushing for federal support, but progress has been slow. The Oval is crucial for Canada’s sports legacy, and everyone hopes it can continue to serve athletes for years to come. Losing this venue would be a huge blow for the speedskating community and beyond.
