Émilie Greenfield, who looks set to qualify for the World Junior Long Track Speed​​Skating Championship, has pulled off quite a feat that transcends the sporting context.

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“I don’t have words to describe my achievement other than being really proud,” said the gold medalist at the Canada Junior Championships in the 3000m and fifth overall on Friday. My goal in Canadian Junior was to rediscover the joy of skating and manage my stress. I found my good mood and I’m back as the clown of the group. »

Last March, the skater from England, who moved to Quebec at the age of four, went through very difficult times that forced her to put her college studies on hold.

“I took counseling for mental health issues,” she said. I was depressed because I couldn’t handle my stress. I was taken out of school. When I ran my 3000m, there were young people that I train. My message is that good things will happen if you don’t let go. It’s my greatest pride. »

Bad start

“After the 500m, where I was 12th, I said to my mom, ‘We’re going,'” she said. My trainer [Marc-André Poudrier-Michaud] set me right by telling me it wasn’t over yet. »

“In the 1000m, which is not my best race, I was ready. I wasn’t even nervous and sped up to sixth place. »

A long distance specialist, Greenfield landed at the foot of the podium in the 1500m, 0.01 seconds off third place, in addition to his gold medal in the 3000m. Speed ​​​​Skating Canada (SVC) will be the five boys and five team girl who will be traveling to Inzell, Germany early next week, February 10-12.

Cloé Jelonek also gets her ticket for the World Juniors. Among the favourites, the daughter of Olympians Gregor Jelonek and Guylaine Dumont came in third overall thanks to her silver and bronze medals in the 1000m and 500m.

mission accomplished

“Last year I came close to qualifying and I knew I could do that this year,” she said. My goal was a podium place in the general classification. For this first participation in the world of juniors, I want to gain experience. I will target the results later as I am eligible for another two years. »

“I’m very happy with my championship,” added Jelonek. After my sixth place in the 1500m I had some doubts but I got strong. My last major competition was at the Jeux du Québec. »

The top three skaters get their de facto World Juniors ticket, and we’re adding a short distance specialist for fourth place and a long distance specialist for fifth place.