Eastern Canadian Ski Legends

Eastern Canada is in the shadow of the Canadian rockies. We may not have the same dramatic landscapes but we do have a ski culture just as rich and a history just as proud. The densely populated cities near the ski hills of Quebec and Ontario have given rise to some of the world’s most renowned skiers. This is their story—the legends who carved their names into destinations like Mont-Tremblant, Mont-Sainte-Anne, and Le Massif, and more.

Jean Luc Brassard – Mogul Skiing’s Vibrant Champion

Jean Luc Brassard, an Olympic gold medalist in mogul skiing from the 1994 Winter Games, is often regarded as the greatest of all time in his discipline. His electrifying performances are a testament to his title. Fun fact, he used bright knee patches on his snow pants to catch everyone’s eyes and draw the judges’ attention to his graceful turns and bumps. He set the trend for mogul skiers to follow for many years after. 

Anne Heggtveit – Ottawa’s Trailblazing Gold Medalist

The name Anne Heggtveit rings a bell in Ottawa, especially at Camp Fortune ski hill, where the double back diamond “Heggtveit” run stands as a monument to her legacy. The first Canadian gold medalist in skiing, Heggtveit’s triumph in the 1960 Squaw Valley Olympics speaks volumes of her skill, honed at Mont Tremblant. There, on the icy slopes where temperatures often plunge below -30 degrees celsius, she mastered the skills that would let her ski triumphantly on any mountain worldwide.

Steve Podborski – The ‘Crazy Canuck’ from Toronto

Steve Podborski, a name that fittingly includes ‘ski,’ is known for his association with the fearless ‘Crazy Canucks,’ who dominated the European World Cup circuit in the 70s and 80s. Remarkably, Podborski honed his skills at the modest Craigleith Ski Club in Toronto, with just a 200-meter vertical drop—a stark contrast to the towering peaks his peers trained on. His achievements highlight that greatness in skiing isn’t solely about the height of the mountain but the height of one’s passion and determination.

Nancy Greene – Ottawa’s Fierce Competitor and Leader

Nancy Greene, the second Olympic skiing gold medalist hailing from Ottawa, reflects a fascinating paradox. The undemanding hills of Ottawa may not challenge an avid skier, but perhaps they instil a yearning for greater heights. Greene’s athletic prowess, coupled with her sharp mind, led her to become a senator for British Columbia. With 14 World Cup victories and numerous Hall of Fame inductions, she embodies toughness, both physically and mentally.

These legends, with their unique stories and unmatched skills, have shaped Eastern Canadian skiing history. Each one, from Brassard’s colourful flair to Heggtveit’s first winter Olympic gold medal in Canada, has inspired countless enthusiasts to pursue the thrills of the slopes. As we recount their achievements, we remember that Eastern Canada’s ski culture is about more than just picturesque landscapes—it’s about the culture and legacy skiers built.