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Kim Boutin's recent race completion

Canadian speed skater Kim Boutin announced on Tuesday that this season will be her final one with the national short track team. With a smile, Boutin expressed her intentions to fully enjoy the remainder of her skating career, stating, "I'm going to soak it all up."

Kim Boutin's final race
Kim Boutin's final race

Kim Boutin's recent race completion

Kim Boutin Prepares for Final Season and World Championships

Canadian short track speed skater Kim Boutin has announced that the 2022-2023 season will be her last with the national team. As she gears up for her final international competition, the World Short Track Speed Skating Championships, Boutin is focused on making the most of her remaining time on the ice.

Boutin, who has won four individual Olympic medals (one silver and three bronze), has had a successful career in the sport. However, she has yet to win an Olympic medal in the relay. This year, Boutin is eager for the team spirit to help her potentially win an Olympic medal in the team event.

The Canadian short track speed skating team won the globe of crystal last season, and Boutin attributes the cohesion with her teammates to the arrival of the globe of crystal. Boutin's head coach, Marc Gagnon, has known for a long time that Boutin's 2025-2026 season will be her last. Gagnon is prepared to support Boutin, understanding that she may not follow the program linearly.

During an interview in October 2024, Boutin expressed her desire to be the Lionel Messi of her team, meaning she would only run when it's important. Boutin's motto is "Don't have regrets and go all out everywhere to try and get as much as you can." This approach for her final season is different from her previous years, as she is focusing on performing at her best.

Boutin is currently recovering from a concussion, but she finds herself in a "sweet spot" where she believes she will perform well this year. Gagnon expects Boutin to stick to her decision, even with very good results. Boutin's focus remains on her performances during the season, and she does not plan to constantly remind herself that her last moments on her long blades are approaching, except at the World Championships.

Boutin wants to finish her career with good memories and as many positive memories as possible. After the World Championships, her final competition, Boutin sees this final season as "extra." Despite the end of her competitive career looming, Boutin is excited for what the future holds and the memories she will create in her final season.

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