Canada's Olympic Skiing/Snowboarding Memories

1948 St. Moritz, Switzerland

Untouched by the devastation of World War II, the town of St Moritz in neutral Switzerland was chosen to host the V Olympic Winter Games. With the bitter memories of war yet to fade, it was not surprising that Germany and Japan were barred from competing. The quality of the sites for competition and enthusiasm of both athletes and spectators alike, confirmed the Winter Games had emerged from a 12-year hiatus unharmed and with renewed interest.

Before the Games even started, the Canadian alpine team suffered a disappointing loss. Pierre Jalbert, one of Canada's medal favorite in the alpine events, fell at high speed during training. Twin sisters, Rhoda and Rhona Wurtele, weren't even allowed to compete in pre-Olympic races for fear they would get hurt. Unfortunately, Rhoda was injured during a training run and was unable to compete in Olympic competition, while Rhona suffered a head injury but was able to return in time to compete in the alpine events.

Although he didn't win a medal, Bill Irwin must be recognized for competing in a total of six skiing events. Even more remarkable, he had spent two weeks in the hospital prior to the Olympics, after a snow bridge collapsed on him during a training run.

Typically, Canadian skiers had little money to travel and compete in national or international competitions, and usually owned two pairs of skis unlike their European rivals who were supplied with several pairs for each discipline. Despite these obstacles, the Canadian Olympic skiers persevered and achieved commendable results.

Opening date: January 30, 1948
Closing date: February 8, 1948
Candidate cities: Lake Placid (USA)

To return to 'Canada's Olympic Skiing/Snowboarding Memories' exhibit, please click here.

For a brief history of the Olympic Games, please click here.

To learn more about the skiing disciplines at the Olympic Winter Games, please click here.