The Olympics

I’m in awe of Olympic athletes. The training and commitment they give to perform often dangerous sports at elite levels is magical. So it comes as no surprise that one of my favourite types of movies are sports movie. Whether they’re comedy or drama, I gobble them up. A League of Their Own has long been a favourite of mine, and my sister and I used to quote the film line for line back and forth to each other. I prefer the Winter Olympics, and events from them have resulted in some delightful sports movies: Cool Runnings, Eddie the Eagle, Miracle. However, my favourite winter sport hasn’t received much filmic representation, Olympic or otherwise. That sport is speed skating (long or short track). There was a film about Dan Jansen back in the 90s, but it’s one I’ve never been able to see. The only speed skater I’ve seen as a character on film was in the Cutting Edge sequel Fire and Ice. This is sad, because as a former speed skater (short track), I know there’s a lot of drama. And anyone that’s watched the Olympics has seen it play out, but if you need a refresher, look no further than this memorable Olympic final.

Bradbury’s whole Olympic story that year was amazing. He had low expectations of medalling that year, he was mostly there to promote his custom speed skating boots, and then in one crazy moment, he ends up winning the Gold. I want to see a movie about that. I’ve been waiting. Perhaps I might have to try my hand at myself if no one else will.