Olympic Ambition Passes from Father to Daughter in the Lamarche Family
The Lamarche family is gearing up for an exciting Olympic journey as Béatrice Lamarche prepares to compete in the upcoming Milan-Cortina Games. A promising speed skater, Béatrice has quickly established herself by securing her Olympic qualification in three events.
Rising Star: Béatrice Lamarche’s Olympic Journey
At just 27 years old, Béatrice has already achieved remarkable success. She earned her Olympic spot in the 500m and 1000m competitions and added the 1500m after impressive performances in Canadian trials.
- First titles at Canadian Championships: October, Calgary
- World Cup debut: November, Salt Lake City
- Olympic events: 500m, 1000m, 1500m
Béatrice’s early success was met with enthusiasm from her family. Her father, Benoît Lamarche, an Olympian himself, recalled the anticipation leading up to her confirmation. “It felt like a relief once she secured her spot,” he remarked.
A Family Legacy of Athletes
The Lamarche family boasts a rich history in sports. Benoît represented Canada in speed skating at the 1984 Sarajevo Olympics at just 17 years old. His wife, Simone Lemieux, is a former long jump champion, and Béatrice’s aunt, Marie-Pierre Lamarche, also competed in the 1988 Calgary Olympics.
The family’s sporting lineage extends to various disciplines, including Jiu-Jitsu and short-track speed skating, showcasing their athletic prowess.
Travel Plans for Milan-Cortina
As the games approach, the family has been busy preparing for their trip. Benoît traveled to Europe early to attend events such as the World Masters Championships and the World Cup in Inzell, Germany. Eventually, he will be joined by Simone and his daughters for the Olympic events.
Competitive Schedule for Béatrice Lamarche
Béatrice’s competition dates are as follows:
| Event | Date | Time |
|---|---|---|
| 1000m | February 9 | 11:30 AM |
| 500m | February 15 | 11:03 AM |
| 1500m | February 20 | 10:30 AM |
Encouragement and Support
Benoît, now a professor at Laval University, has been supportive without overwhelming his daughter with advice. He believes in her preparedness and encourages her to embrace the Olympic experience fully. “Enjoy every moment,” he advised her.
Béatrice’s determination and confidence are evident. With her games starting with the 1000m, she’s ready to show the world her talent. As she embarks on this journey, both family legacy and ambition drive her towards Olympic glory.
