Catriona’s winning ways
by San Larocque

"Winning the Gold did not change my life," said Olympic champion speed skater Catriona Le May Doan. A look at Le May Doan’s amazing achievements in the speed skating ovals around the world since 1996 reveal over 30 gold medals in World Cup, Olympic and Canadian events. Three-time Canadian Female Athlete of the Year and eight-time world record breaker are just a few of this 33-year-old’s achievements. Le May Doan has been the only successful Canadian to defend an Olympic title to date. Another title that Catriona sports joyfully is that she’s a Christian.

With a bright, contagious smile and twinkling eyes Canadians recognize immediately, Saskatoon-born Le May Doan has won over the hearts of many across this land but admits her own heart belongs to Jesus.

"I started looking for answers. I asked Jesus to be the biggest part of my life. It was in 1994 that I really became a Christian. I realized that I needed to make a decision," Le May Doan admitted to CLN recently.

Regarding her Christian walk, she stated, "I also struggle with many things. I try to fix everything myself but realize that I can pray about all things and I know that God is in control of my life. She explained that since her decision to follow Christ, "there’s an incredible peace in my life."

Le May Doan has been a positive influence in the Olympic arena on and off the ice. "As a Christian, many think that you won’t and shouldn’t mess up. When I have... I (have been able to) show that none of us are perfect, and God can forgive us all." This Olympic Gold Medalist spent 15 years with the national team before retiring earlier this year. Her teammates have much to say about her. "Catriona’s a class act,’’ added Clara Hughes, bronze medalist at the 2002 Olympic Winter Games. "She’s set such a great example for all of us. Nobody will ever fill her shoes.’’

Retirement for the fastest woman on ice is not really a matter of slowing down. "Retirement has been great. I have been so busy with speaking, events with sponsors, work with the Vancouver bid committee, work with CBC, and I love it all!" said Le May Doan.  A driven and sought after motivational speaker, she enjoys encouraging people to reach their potential. "I love people – that is my true passion. I love to see people dream and work hard and be able to achieve their dreams. I love to push myself to see what I am able to accomplish and love to be a part of other’s dreams in any way." Le May Doan reported that many people have also had an impact on her faith. The verse that motivates this motivator is Philippians 4:13. "I can do all things through Christ who gives me strength. I know He can help me handle anything!" she said with assurance.

When asked what advice she would give to younger skaters, Le May Doan answered, "enjoy every minute. It’s hard not to get wrapped up in the results but that is not what matters – it is the moment, the journey." On winning the gold, she said, "although it was great to win the Olympic Gold. I know that it’s my relationship with Jesus that gives me true significance. With Him my life is truly fulfilling."

Catriona Le May Doan has trained at the Calgary’s Olympic Oval and has received an Honorary Degree from the University of Calgary. In what little spare time she has, she loves to golf as well as ride horses. She and her husband Bart currently live in Calgary.

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