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 Speed Skating Canada
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Date of Birth: 27/09/72 |
Place of Birth: Winnipeg, MB |
Residence: Calgary, AB |
Height: 5'9" |
Weight: 159 lbs |
Years on National Team: 1 |
Clara Hughes is one of the big stories to emerge in Canadian sports over the past year but you'd never know it watching your local TV sportscast or reading your daily newspaper.
A double Olympic bronze medallist in cycling at the 1996 Olympics, Hughes is headed to her first Winter Games with a legitimate shot for a medal in the women's 5'000-metres. At the Olympic trials in December she posted the fourth fastest time in history in the event to qualify for the Games. Hughes could become the first Canadian to win a medal at both a winter and summer Olympics.
"Our opposition in Europe is going to look at the times we skated at trials and go OEOh my God''" said Hughes, who laced up her skates again eight months ago. "I can't believe this is actually happening so early in my new skating career. It's very motivating for the Olympics because I know I can go faster."
Hughes started speed skating at age 16 but switched to cycling at age 17. She went on to become one of Canada's best-ever female cyclist and enjoyed a successful career as a pro rider with Team Saturn.
However she hung up her bike after the Sydney Games to return to speed skating to pursue a dream to compete at a Winter Olympics.
What Clara Hughes Did
Feb. 23 - Women's 5,000 metres: Clara Hughes, Winnipeg, won bronze medal
Feb. 10: Clara Hughes, Winnipeg, was 10th of 32 finalists.
Clara Hughes Pictures
Hughes raises her arm after winning a bronze
5000m medalists receive their flowers
Clara Hughes eyes the track
Clara Hughes smiles as she looks up
More Clara Hughes Stories
Hughes most comfortable in speed skates
Chasing her dreams
Groves, Hughes shine in Olympic selections racing
2002 Games Long Track Speed Skating Coverage
