Olympic Ice Dance Champion Guillaume Cizeron Announces New Skating Partner: Laurence Fournier Beaudry

Guillaume Cizeron and Laurence Fournier Beaudry (FFSG photo / Schaël Marcéus)

Guillaume Cizeron, the Olympic ice dance champion from the Beijing 2022 Winter Games, has announced his return to competition with a new partner: Canadian Olympian Laurence Fournier Beaudry.

The French skater made the announcement on Sunday (2 March) via social media, teasing the partnership a day before. Cizeron, who has not competed in nearly three years, previously skated alongside Gabriella Papadakis. The pair’s last competitive appearance together was at the 2022 World Championships in Montpellier, France, where they claimed the world title on home ice. Afterward, Cizeron and Papadakis performed in a few ice shows and skated in the exhibition gala at the 2024 European Championships before announcing their retirement as a duo in December 2024.

Since retiring from competition, Cizeron has shifted his focus to choreography, even working with Republic of Korea's Cha Junhwan on his exhibition routine.

Cizeron and Fournier Beaudry have been long-time training mates at the Ice Academy of Montreal, one of the top ice dance training centers in the world. In his announcement, Cizeron expressed his excitement about their new partnership.

“For over a decade, we have grown side by side, sharing joys, challenges, and an unwavering passion for ice,” Cizeron wrote. “We’ve supported each other through every step of our journeys, inspiring one another, never imagining that one day, our paths would unite on the ice."

“Today, the universe offers us a new adventure—a duo born from friendship, respect, and a shared love for the sport. A dance written by the years, fueled by the fire of our dreams. A new story begins.”

The new duo will represent France, and Fournier Beaudry is now listed under the French flag by the International Skating Union. The French Ice Sports Federation (FFSG) also shared Cizeron’s Instagram post, expressing excitement about this collaboration.

A statement from the FFSG read: “This unprecedented sporting challenge brings together two of the world’s greatest skating talents. Their ambition is not only to make France shine at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Games but also to inspire the next generation of skaters and make a lasting contribution to French sport and culture.”

The FFSG continued, “Together, Guillaume Cizeron and Laurence Fournier Beaudry embody the renewal and ambition of French figure skating, supported by a federation that is undergoing transformation and focusing on the future. This new alliance marks a decisive step in the trajectory of French ice dance.”

Their primary objective is clear: to excel at the highest level, push their limits, and position their duo among the world’s elite, with a view to major national and international events, including the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics.

To be eligible to compete at the 2026 Milano Cortina Olympics, Fournier Beaudry would need to obtain French citizenship.

Fournier Beaudry previously competed with Nikolaj Sørensen for Canada at the Beijing Olympics. Before that, she represented Denmark but was unable to obtain Danish citizenship. She has not competed this season after Sørensen was suspended for six years by the Canadian Office of the Sport Integrity Commissioner’s Abuse-Free Sport department in October.

Meanwhile, Papadakis, who has indicated she does not intend to return to competition, has been skating with Madison Hubbell, the former U.S. ice dancer who won team gold in Beijing. They have been promoting the formation of same-sex pairs and dance teams.

Ski Mountaineering Races to Make Olympic Debut

Olympic rings are seen in the snow at the Stelvio Ski Center, venue for the alpine skiing and ski mountaineering disciplines at the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics, in Bormio, Italy, Jan 16, 2025. (PHOTO / AP)

Emily Harrop wasn’t fast enough going downhill to make a mark in Alpine skiing, but she’s proving unstoppable going uphill.

The French athlete, who earned the title “queen of ski mountaineering,” made the switch to the sport at the age of 20. Harrop will be a favorite for gold when ski mountaineering makes its Olympic debut at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Games.

Harrop has dominated the World Cup sprint races this season, winning all four, including her most recent victory on February 22 at an Olympic test event in Bormio, which will host the ski mountaineering (or "skimo") events next year.

“It’s great to be able to come here a year before to test it out, it was really exciting for all of us,” Harrop said after her victory. “I think everyone had the test event in mind this year, so I’m really glad to end this day with a big confidence boost.”

Following her sprint win, Harrop earned a second-place finish in the mixed relay, alongside Thibault Anselmet.

The 27-year-old is a four-time world champion in relay and team events and has secured both the overall and sprint World Cup titles in the past three seasons.

What Is Ski Mountaineering?

Ski mountaineering requires athletes to ascend a mountain before descending.

“It’s kind of like combining cross-country skiing with Alpine skiing. You sprint up a mountain with your skis on, then ski down a mini Alpine course,” explained Cameron Smith of the United States.

In sprint races, competitors use specialized skis with climbing skins—materials that improve traction against the snow—to ascend, and sometimes climb on foot in ski boots. Once at the top, they switch to downhill skis to descend.

At the Olympics, 18 male and 18 female athletes will compete in individual sprint races and a mixed relay.

Sprint races typically last only about three minutes—far shorter than other ski mountaineering events like the vertical (uphill-only) and individual races, which can last well over an hour, but are not part of the Olympic program.

Training for the Olympic Format

With the sprint race as the Olympic format, athletes have had to adjust their training routines to focus on shorter, more explosive efforts.

“My training changed a lot because the races are short, so we do a lot of gym work and short intervals,” said Oriol Cardona Coll of Spain, who won the men’s sprint and the mixed relay with Ana Alonso Rodriguez. “We altered our preparation, and it worked.”

The course in Bormio, located at the foot of the famous Stelvio slope, will also host the men’s Alpine skiing events.

As one athlete described, the course features a bit of everything: an ascent with climbing skins, followed by foot climbing with skis on the back, then another short ascent before switching to skis to descend 70 meters downhill through raised banks and steep curves.

The mixed relay involves another descent halfway through the longer course, raced twice by each team member in alternating order.

Although the races are fast-paced, athletes must remain mentally sharp for the frequent transitions where they switch their skis or skins.

“I tell people we just practice taking our skis on and off a lot,” said American Jessie Young, who finished 10th in the relay with Smith.

Is the Sprint True Ski Mountaineering?

Some feel the sprint race is not representative of traditional ski mountaineering.

“I think the sprint is a really fun, spectator-friendly event. It’s very different, almost like a different sport compared to the longer races,” said US racer David Sinclair.

Many athletes in Bormio agreed that while the sprint differs from the sport’s traditional Alpine climbing, it will serve as a good introduction to ski mountaineering.

“It’s like saying the 100 meters isn’t a real race,” said Italy’s Nicolo Ernesto Canclini. “It’s true that someone doesn’t usually just run 100 meters, but it’s the most followed event in the Summer Olympics. Ski mountaineering had to make this compromise to get into the Olympics… Hopefully, in the future, we’ll have more classic races too.”

When asked about his preference for the sprint versus longer races, Canclini said: “My favorite is when I’m without a race number, just going up into the mountains and stopping at a rifugio (mountain lodge) for a nice beer—that’s the best ski mountaineering for me.”

Home Advantage

For Canclini, next year’s Olympics will be especially meaningful as the races will be held on his home turf. The two-time world champion grew up in Bormio and lives just 300 meters from the slope.

“It’s a great emotion to race at home,” he said. “As a youngster, I was an Alpine skier, so having seen all the greats race here, I dreamed of racing here myself. Then I switched sports, and in the end, I still got to race here. It’s a great satisfaction and feeling.”

Canclini’s family and friends were there to cheer him on during the weekend’s event. Unfortunately, he tripped during his ascent in the qualifiers, losing about three seconds as his skis became trapped in the strap holding them to his back. He didn’t make it to the quarterfinals, falling short by less than a second.

“Everyone said to me, ‘better that it happened this year than next’,” Canclini laughed. “But it would have been even better if it hadn’t happened at all.”

 Here's an edited version of the article for clarity and flow:

Ariarne Titmus Responds as News About Olympic Champ Brianna Throssell Sparks Flood of Messages

Ariarne Titmus has joined the outpouring of congratulations for Brianna Throssell after the Olympic gold medallist announced her retirement from competitive swimming on Sunday. Throssell revealed her decision on social media, effective immediately, after announcing last year at the Paris Olympics that she would not continue to the next Games.

Throssell had a breakthrough moment at the 2024 Paris Olympics, securing her first Olympic gold medal as part of the women’s 4x200m freestyle relay team. Although she had won a gold in the 4x100m medley relay at the Tokyo Games, she was only a heat swimmer on that occasion. In Paris, Throssell raced in the final and helped her team, alongside Titmus, Mollie O'Callaghan, and Lani Pallister, secure the gold.

"As I reflect on everything I’ve accomplished, I feel an overwhelming sense of pride in the journey I’ve taken," Throssell wrote when announcing her retirement.

"For over 12 years, I’ve been part of the Australian Dolphins team, giving everything I had, leaving no stone unturned. Swimming has been the biggest part of my life, and I’ve pushed myself to the absolute limit. I’ve competed in two Commonwealth Games, six long-course World Championships, three Olympics, won four Olympic medals, and set a world record. Each of these achievements holds a special place in my heart. But the greatest reward has been the person I’ve become through it all.

"I am so proud of everything I’ve achieved and incredibly grateful for the lessons swimming has taught me. It was never about the medals—it’s about the people I’ve met, the strength I’ve found within myself, and the pride in knowing I gave everything I had."

Titmus, who roomed with Throssell in Paris, was among the first to offer her congratulations. The two have shared a close bond for years. On Monday, Titmus wrote on social media, “I am so, so proud of you, beautiful, in and out of the pool. I am so blessed for your support and friendship and can’t wait to see you do great things in the next chapter of your life! Love you lots. Here’s to making many more memories.”

The praise for Throssell continued to pour in, with fellow swimmers Mollie O'Callaghan, Cameron McEvoy, and Shayna Jack also sharing their well-wishes.

Throssell later posted another message on Instagram, thanking everyone for their support, with a special mention of Titmus. "The past few days have been incredibly emotional, and I’ve been absolutely overwhelmed by the beautiful messages of love and support," she wrote. "Thank you from the bottom of my heart. I feel so lucky to have been surrounded by the most amazing people throughout my swimming journey.

"To my biggest supporters—Mum, Dad, and Nick—thank you for being there through it all. The early mornings, the tough days, the best moments, and everything in between. I truly wouldn’t be here without you. To my fiancé Josh, thank you for always being by my side, cheering me on, and supporting me every step of the way. I can’t wait for this next chapter together."

Throssell also expressed gratitude to her teammates, especially Titmus, along with Evie and Shayna Jack, for the memories, laughs, and unwavering support. "This sport has given me more than I could have ever imagined, and while this chapter is closing, my love for swimming and the people in it will never fade. I’ll forever cherish the friendships, the lessons, and the incredible moments that have shaped who I am today."

Throssell concludes her career with 39 medals, including four Olympic medals. She will now focus on a new career in business, joining Deloitte Australia's Mergers and Acquisitions team.

Former Cyclone Tyrese Haliburton's Olympic Gold Medal Banner Unveiled at Hilton Coliseum

AMES, Iowa — Tyrese Haliburton's Olympic gold medal banner was unveiled Saturday night at Hilton Coliseum, solidifying his legacy at Iowa State University.

Haliburton, a former Iowa State standout and current Indiana Pacers All-Star, earned a gold medal with the U.S. men's basketball team at the 2024 Paris Olympic Games last summer.

Now hanging in the rafters of Hilton Coliseum, Haliburton’s banner joins those of other legendary Cyclones like Dan Gable and Cael Sanderson. Haliburton is the first men's basketball player from Iowa State to win an Olympic gold medal, forever etching his name into the university’s storied history.

"This is a dream come true," Haliburton said. "I couldn’t have done it without the support of my coaches, teammates, and fans."

Haliburton's path from Iowa State to Olympic glory highlights his relentless dedication and hard work. The banner now serves as a lasting tribute to his impact on both the sport of basketball and the university that helped shape his career.

Fans and alumni gathered to witness the special moment, celebrating Haliburton's remarkable achievements. The ceremony featured career highlights and heartfelt messages from his former teammates and coaches.

World of Golden Memories Found at the Lake Placid Olympic Museum

LAKE PLACID — What does it mean to be at the heart of Lake Placid? That’s a subjective question, and one with many possible answers. After visiting nearly two dozen of the Olympic region’s most iconic sites, trails, and attractions for the Visiting Lake Placid Column, I humbly suggest this: the Lake Placid Olympic Museum. Conveniently, this week’s feature is dedicated to this must-see destination.

The museum, operated by the state Olympic Regional Development Authority, is located inside the Olympic Center at 2634 Main St. It first opened in its current location in 1994 and celebrates the history of Lake Placid’s two Olympic Winter Games—1932 and 1980.

Visiting the Museum

To enter the museum, head to the first floor of the Olympic Center’s Miracle Plaza. The entrance is above the corner of Main Street and Cummings Road, with a check-in desk on the right. Tickets are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors (65+), teens (7-19), students with I.D., and military members; $10 per person for groups of 10 or more. Children under 6 get in free. Tickets can be purchased at the desk or online in advance at tinyurl.com/3cyx3a9r.

What to Expect Inside

Once inside, the museum’s exhibits take visitors on a chronological journey through the history of the Olympic Games. The first section delves into the origins of the Games, starting with the 1896 Summer Olympics in Athens, Greece.

The next area highlights Lake Placid’s early history as a small community in the Adirondack Mountains. It explores how the town, led by Godfrey Dewey, won the bid to host the 1932 Winter Games, and how the community rallied behind the infrastructure efforts during the Great Depression.

The exhibit then shifts to the 1932 Winter Games, with displays dedicated to the sports, athletes, and sites that defined the event.

Olympic Dreams and Grit

The museum also showcases the skill, preparation, and dedication it takes to become an Olympian. One of the interactive highlights is a fixed bobsled "run" that simulates the experience of speeding down the Mount Van Hoevenberg Olympic Bobsled Run, complete with video monitors.

There’s also an exhibit that features local Olympic athletes and information on the rigorous demands Olympians face in terms of nutrition, travel, and training.

Artwork and Design

As visitors move through the museum, they encounter an entire section dedicated to the artwork and design that helps define each Olympic Games. This room is filled with artwork, pins, fashion, medals, and torches from around the world, including original design prints from the 1980 Lake Placid Winter Olympics. One wall showcases over 800 collectible Olympic pins, popular among participants and fans alike.

A Legacy Still Alive

The final exhibit area emphasizes the lasting legacy of Lake Placid’s Olympic venues. Unlike many past Olympic sites that fall into disrepair, Lake Placid's venues remain in active use, maintained by ORDA, and are open to the public for both athletic events and tourism.

Plan Your Visit

The Lake Placid Olympic Museum is open daily from 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. The museum is self-paced, but it’s recommended that visitors allocate at least an hour to explore the exhibits, or two hours to fully appreciate the extensive collection of history. Guided tours are available upon request. For more information or to schedule a tour, visit tinyurl.com/3n5a2kj9.