In a bold move to reignite her Olympic ambitions, British speed skater Ellia Smeding has swapped the familiar canals of the Netherlands for the rugged peaks of the Canadian Rockies. Her relocation to Calgary is paying dividends, as she prepares to compete for Team GB at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics.
A Fresh Start in the Mountains
The decision to uproot her life came after a challenging season plagued by a persistent hip injury. Seeking a clean slate, Smeding, 27, left her long-time training base to work under renowned coach Bart Schouten in Canada. This strategic shift has proven transformative for the Aylesbury-born athlete, who made history as Team GB's first female speed skater in 40 years at the Beijing 2022 Games.
"It has been a year of getting my energy back, my happiness back," Smeding revealed. "It has been such a good experience being in the mountains, being in a new training environment, feeling like my body is doing what I want it to do again." She described the move as a "breath of fresh air" that provided a new perspective, crucial for both recovering from injury and elevating her performance on the international circuit.
Overcoming Adversity with a New Perspective
The period of change was compounded when her partner and fellow skater, Cornelius Kersten, was also sidelined following a training crash. Despite leaving family, including her twin nieces, behind in the Netherlands, Smeding has no regrets. The new setting forced a reevaluation of long-held training methods and beliefs.
"It really challenged certain beliefs and ways we had done things for so many years," she admitted. "I really liked to be challenged on my own beliefs, that's how you grow as an athlete." This process of rediscovery has injected a new sense of purpose and appreciation for her career, directly contributing to her successful return to the World Cup circuit and qualification for Milano Cortina.
Embracing the Full Olympic Experience
With her spark regained, Smeding is now eagerly anticipating what she considers a debut of sorts. Having made her Olympic bow at the Covid-restricted Beijing Games, the upcoming event in Italy promises the vibrant atmosphere she craves.
"This almost feels like my first Games just because so many experiences will be the first time," Smeding said. "I just love a crowd; I love skating in a stadium full of people so I think that will be a real advantage. I can't wait to actually have my friends and family there who missed out on the last experience."
Her journey from injury-induced doubt to Rocky Mountain resilience underscores the determination driving Team GB's winter sports athletes. As the countdown to Milano Cortina 2026 continues, Smeding's story of change and renewal positions her as one of Britain's most compelling hopefuls, ready to put her fresh perspective to the ultimate test on the world's biggest stage.
