Isabelle Weidemann, a Canadian speedskater, participated in the women's 5,000 metres at the Milan Cortina Games with high expectations but ultimately finished in fifth place. Clocking in at six minutes and 50.08 seconds, she fell nearly four seconds short of a medal. Reflecting on her performance, Weidemann acknowledged the overwhelming pace from the start, stating that she felt she would be unable to recover her speed after the first lap. Despite her effort throughout the race, she expressed disappointment in not being able to secure a spot on the podium.

Weidemann is no stranger to high stakes in speedskating, having previously served as Canada’s flag-bearer at the Beijing Olympics in 2022, where she won multiple medals, including gold in team pursuit. Her previous successes have cemented her status as a notable athlete in the sport. However, her performance in Milan highlighted the stark realities of competitive sports, where even the most seasoned athletes can face challenges that lead to unexpected outcomes. Weidemann's experience and growth over the last four years since her last Olympic appearance were evident, but the desire to achieve more remains strong.

In spite of her disappointment, Weidemann’s attitude reflected resilience and commitment to her sport. Recognizing the difference between her current form and that of years past, she remains optimistic about her future in speedskating. With the experience gained from these Games, Weidemann aims to apply the lessons learned moving forward, as she continues to reflect on her journey as an athlete and her aspirations for future competitions.