Canadian Artistic Swimmers Set to Shine at Paris 2024 Olympics
A group of talented Canadian artistic swimmers have been selected to represent Team Canada at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, marking a significant achievement in their careers. Despite being considered underdogs, Team Canada secured their spots in both the duet and team events after their impressive performances at the 2024 World Aquatics Championships earlier this year. The team’s journey to the Olympics has been marked by steady progress, including a team bronze at the Santiago 2023 Pan Am Games.
Since qualifying for the Olympics, Team Canada has been hard at work, honing their skills and competing in various events. A recent trip to the Aquatics Centre in Paris for the World Aquatics Artistic Swimming World Cup saw them clinch a silver medal in the team free routine, showcasing their high level of expertise. The team also impressed at the Canadian stop on the World Cup circuit, winning medals in all three routines to the delight of their home crowd in Markham, Ontario.
Team co-captain Kenzie Priddell expressed her excitement about fulfilling their Olympic dreams, highlighting the team’s strength, resilience, and special bond. Two-time Olympian Jacqueline Simoneau will provide leadership to the team as they prepare for Paris 2024, with Simoneau coming out of retirement to compete once again.
In addition to the team event, Simoneau will also compete in the duet event with Audrey Lamothe, with whom she has already achieved success at international competitions. Lamothe, who is making her Olympic debut, spoke about the honor of competing alongside Simoneau and learning from her experience.
For many young athletes on Team Canada, Simoneau has been a role model and inspiration, making her transition into a leadership role all the more meaningful. As the team gears up for the Olympics, they received a generous bursary from the Canadian Olympic Foundation’s “Great to Gold” initiative, providing crucial support for their journey to Paris 2024.
The Canadian artistic swimmers will be competing in Paris from August 5 to August 10, aiming to make a splash and showcase their skills on the world stage.
**Team Canada Artistic Swimmers at Paris 2024:**
– Scarlett Finn (Toronto, Ont.)
– Audrey Lamothe (Montreal, Que.)
– Jonnie Newman (Calgary, Alta.)
– Raphaelle Plante (Quebec, Que.)
– Kenzie Priddell (Regina, Sask.)
– Claire Scheffel (Brantford, Ont.)
– Jacqueline Simoneau (Saint-Laurent, Que)
– Florence Tremblay (Rimouski, Que.)
– Sydney Carroll (Saskatoon, Sask.) *Travelling Alternate*