With 98 medal events taking place at the upcoming Sochi Olympics, there are plenty of events to entertain viewers.
CBC released its programming schedule Jan. 30, and the Associated Press released its medal predictions earlier this week.
Expectations are high following Canada’s impressive performance in 2010.
There is no shortage of Canadian athletes making headlines as the Olympics approach, and experts have already weighed in on the events worth following.
Week one must see events (Feb. 7 – Feb. 14)
Friday Feb. 7:
Opening Ceremony 11:00-14:00 EST on CBC
Canadian Hayley Wickenheiser will lead the team into Fisht Olympic Stadium for Sochi’s big debut. Controversy has hounded Russia, and people will certainly be watching closely during this ceremony.
Saturday Feb. 8:
Snowboard – Men’s Slopestyle: 00:30-02:15 & 03:45-05:00 EST on CBC
Mark McMorris has been touted as a serious gold medal contender, but a rib fracture that occurred during the X-Games last week could leave this event wide open. Maxence Parrot is another potential favourite representing Canada in this event.
(Honourable Mention – Women’s Hockey Canada vs. Switzerland: 08:00-10:30 EST on CBC)
Sunday Feb. 9:
Figure Skating – Team Event – Men’s Free, Women’s Free, and Ice Dance Free Programs: 10:00-13:15 EST on CBC
Team Canada is a favourite for this inaugural event.
Monday Feb. 10:
Freestyle Skiing – Men’s Moguls: 08:55-10:20 EST on Sportsnet
Alex Bilodeau is the reigning Olympic gold medal winner, but he could have some competition in teammate Mikael Kingsbury. Bilodeau was the first Canadian to win a gold medal at the 2010 Vancouver games to great fanfare.
Tuesday Feb. 11:
Freestyle Skiing – Women’s Slopestyle: 03:55-05:05 EST on CBC
The Canadian Freestyle Ski team is anticipated to win as many as 10 medals. Dara Howell and Kaya Turski are contenders for the podium, so fans should keep an eye on this event.
Wednesday Feb. 12:
Ice Hockey – Women’s Canada vs. USA: 07:30-10:00 EST on CBC
Many are expecting this game to be a preview of the gold medal finals. There is no love lost between these long-time rivals, and this game is sure to thrill.
Thursday Feb.13:
Ice Hockey – Men’s Canada vs. Norway: 12:00-14:30 EST on CBC
This will be the first opportunity to see our men’s hockey team in action. The gold medal favourites are expected to put in a strong performance. The roster has been highly debated, but Canadian’s Olympic hopes still rest with this team.
Friday Febr. 14:
Figure Skating – Men’s Free Program: 10:00-14:30 EST on TSN
In the second day of men’s Figure Skating, Patrick Chan is expected to shine. He placed fifth in the men’s event in Vancouver, but has since earned multiple World Championships. It would be a surprise if he didn’t make the podium this time.
Top 5 Canadians to follow:
Click on the photos for background on each athlete.
Use #WeAreWinter on twitter to get involved with the conversation.
Want to follow @CDNOlympicTeam on the road to Sochi? Here’s a handy Twitter list of athletes https://t.co/K6NC9bUrHf #WeAreWinter
— Kirstine Stewart (@kirstinestewart) January 24, 2014
The Olympics (technically) start in one week from now! #Sochi2014 #Olympics #WeAreWinter
— Bucket Shoes (@BucketShoes) January 30, 2014
The Associated Press made projections for the Sochi Olympic games. Here’s a review of what to expect this year, along with past results:
