Saskatoon Skier Finds Confidence in Fifth-Place Olympic Moguls Performance
The journey to the 2026 Milano Cortina Winter Olympic Games was arduous and occasionally painful for Maia Schwinghammer, but a fifth-place finish in women's moguls left the Saskatoon athlete beaming with renewed confidence on Wednesday. The 24-year-old skier, making her Olympic debut, emerged as the sole Canadian competitor to reach the Final 8 at Livigno Aerials and Moguls Park in Italy.
A Hard-Fought Battle to the Games
Schwinghammer's path to the Olympics was marked by significant challenges. "I pre-qualified for the Games last season, and I had some career-best results—a breakout season, one would call it," she explained to reporters following her performance. "And I think I put a lot of pressure on myself to uphold those results, and I wasn't feeling super confident."
The difficulties intensified just before the Games when she crashed during a qualification event, resulting in bruised ribs. "It was a battle to get here," Schwinghammer acknowledged. "But to ski like I did today, and to still know that I have more in me, gives me so much confidence that I do belong here, and I am capable of an incredible result."
Performance Analysis and Reflection
Despite not being at her absolute best during Wednesday's runs, Schwinghammer managed to secure a final score of 77.61, which left her just off the podium. She admitted to getting "a little too caught up in my head" during her second run, making what she described as a "little mistake" off the top jump.
"I'm really happy I was able to hold on and complete my run and still put out a good showing," she said. "I mean, fifth place with some serious mistakes, it really shows me that I am still at the top of my game."
Overcoming Season Challenges
The Olympic performance comes after what Schwinghammer described as a particularly tough season. "It's been a tough season so far," she revealed. "I've been battling a lot of pressure and some little injuries and missed training camps and some medical stuff, so it's been really, really cool to come out here and just enjoy skiing again and feel good on my feet again."
Her perspective on the close finish highlights her competitive mindset. "I know I had more to give out there, but to be 0.39 points off third place with the run that had mistakes in it... I know I'm right there."
Looking Forward with Renewed Assurance
Schwinghammer's fifth-place Olympic finish represents more than just a competition result—it serves as validation of her skills and resilience. The Saskatoon native's ability to perform at an elite level despite significant obstacles has reinforced her belief in her capabilities and her place among the world's top moguls skiers.
This Olympic experience has provided Schwinghammer with the confidence boost she needed after a season filled with physical and mental challenges, positioning her well for future competitions with the knowledge that she can compete with the best in her sport.
