Markham has a lot to be proud of and this year we have an extra special reason to cheer. Local ice dancer Paul Poirier is headed to his fourth Olympic Games.
From Crosby Arena to the World Stage
Paul's story starts right here in Markham where he first took skating lessons at Crosby Arena in Unionville. What began as early lessons grew into a remarkable athletic career highlighted by creativity and dedication. Paul has achieved incredible success with his skating partners:
- He made his Olympic debut with Vanessa Crone at the 2010 Vancouver Games
- He later completed alongside Piper Gilles at PyeongChang (2018) and Beijing (2022)
- In 2026 Paul and Piper will take the ice together once again marking Paul's fourth Olympic appearance
- The pair are also five-time Canadian national champions and are celebrated worldwide for their artistry, innovation and storytelling on ice.
If you've been following the buzz, you'll also know they're featured in the brand-new Netflix docu-series Glitter and Gold, offering a behind-the-scenes look at the world of ice dancing. (You can watch the trailer here)
Ice Dancing 101: What to know while you're watching the Games
Ice Dancing and Pairs Skating are both Olympic events. Not sure how they differ?
- Ice Dancing focuses on rhythm, musical interpretation, and intricate footwork
- Unlike Pairs Skating, there are no jumps or big lifts. The emphasis is on movement, connection and storytelling.
Skaters compete in two segments:
- Rhythm Dance (short program) with a designated rhythm or theme. This year's theme is 1990s music and Paul and Piper will skate to a mashup of RuPaul's Supermodel and Right Said Fred's I'm Too Sexy
- Free Dance (long program) - a longer more expressive performance. They'll skate to the emotional song Vincent by Don McLean
Each dance program has required elements and compulsory patterns. Want to learn more about the elements you'll see? These short videos - featuring Paul and Piper are a great place to start:
Markham Public Library has a great collection of skating films, biographies and music to get you inspired
- The Cutting Edge
- Tessa and Scott: Our Journey from Childhood Dream to Gold
- Ice Castles
- Blades of Glory
- Tessa and Scott: Our Journey from Childhood Dream to Gold
- The House of Hidden Meaning by RuPaul
- A collection of songs by Don McLean
And if the Olympic performances inspire you to learn to skate - it's never too late! The City of Markham offers learn-to-skate programs for all ages.
Mark Your Calendars! Let's Cheer Loudly Markham
As Paul Poirier takes to the ice let's show him how proud we are.
- Check the schedule and official results
- Catch every moment on CBC Television or CBC Gem (free streaming service). CBC is Canada's official Olympic Games broadcaster with full Games coverage
- Send your messages of encouragement to any Team Canada athlete or team.
Add a comment to: Paul Poirier: Cheering on Our Hometown Olympian