Canadian speedskater and cyclist Clara Hughes says the work she put in on Alberta soil pushed her to become a six-time Olympic medallist.
Hughes was part of the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame's Class of 2025, which was inducted during a ceremony at the Red Deer Resort and Casino on the evening of Saturday, June 7.
"It means a tremendous amount to me," Hughes said of her induction.
"I lived in Alberta for 19 years. Four of my Olympic medals — all of the speedskating medals — were earned with hard work on Alberta soil, from the Olympic Circle in Calgary to biking all around and through the Rocky Mountains. I had the gift of living in Canmore for nine years after sport as well."
Hughes won two bronze in the 1996 Summer Olympics and four one gold, one silver, two bronze over the course of three Winter Olympics. She is the only Canadian to win medals in both the Summer and Winter Olympics.
Hughes had two words of advice for young athletes: "Dream big."
"You never know where you dreams may lead you. Be curious, be creative and don't ever give up," said Hughes.
Joining Hughes in the Alberta Sports Hall of Fame's Class of 2025 are:
— Athletes: Alex Gough (luge), Brady Leman (skiing-alpine and freestyle), Brian and Robin McKeever (para nordiq skiing), Ross Norton (wheelchair basketball), and Viviane Forest (para multisport, goalball and alpine skiing).
— Builders: Dianne Greenough (cheer), Hugh Hoyles (volleyball) and Les Gramantik (athletics).
— Team: 1981-1989 Red Deer College Queens Volleyball
— Bell Memorial for contribution to the enjoyment or knowledge of sport in Alberta through print, radio, television, social media or other media: Arnie Jackson
— Achievement Award: George Hopkins and Dwayne Mandrusiak
Dale Henwood, Alberta Sports Hall of Fame board chair, said this year's class was filled with "game changers and history makers."
"This is a great opportunity for us to look at what they've done for sport in Alberta, as well as how they've impacted the province through their sport involvement," said Henwood.
"If you look at the value of sport, there's a lot it can do and a lot it can teach you. It brings our communities together and brings people of all ages together. I believe if we have an active, healthy population — physically, mentally and emotionally — it makes for a much better population and community."
Tracey Kinsella, Alberta Sports Hall of Fame executive director, said the induction ceremonies are always special occasions.
"We get to recognize the most amazing athletes, builders and teams from Alberta," Kinsella said.
Kinsella noted there are some "big changes" coming to the Hall of Fame, which is located at 4200 Queen Elizabeth II Hwy in Red Deer.
"We're looking at a full enhancement and revamp of the entire facility. ... If you haven't been for a visit, it's time," said Kinsella.
