Clara Hughes

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Winnipeg speedskater Clara Hughes is Canada’s second-most decorated Olympian, winning medals in both Summer and Winter Games.

Hometown: Winnipeg.

Resides: Glen Sutton, Que.

Age: 37.

Olympic appearances: 4 (Winter: Turin and Salt Lake City); (Summer: Sydney and Atlanta).

Career highlights:

• Canada’s flag bearer for the opening ceremonies this Friday.
• One of only four athletes to medal in both the Summer and Winter Olympics. One gold, one silver and one bronze in speed skating in Salt Lake and Turin, two bronze from road cycling in Atlanta.
• Holds Canadian record in 10,000m.
• Gold medallist in 5000m at 2004 World Single Distances Championships; bronze in 2005.
• Bronze medallist in 5000m at the 2004 and 2005 World All-Round Championships.

Other:

• Recipient of the 2006 IOC Sport and the Community Trophy.
• Speed Skating Canada’s Female Skater of the Year (2004).
• 18-time Canadian champion in cycling.
• Began skating at age 16, switched to cycling at 17 and returned to speed skating at 28.
• Officer of the Order of Canada and Member of the Order of Manitoba.
• Does extensive humanitarian work for ‘Right to Play.’