Hughes returns to the Oval after cycling hiatus

By Mike Hallman

Olympian Clara Hughes recently announced she will be leaving the sport of cycling to return to speed skating full-time. She is making this move to help actualize her goal of winning gold for Canada at the 2006 Olympic Winter Games.


Hughes excelled at cycling, winning twin bronze medals at the 1996 Olympic Summer Games.


"I have pursued all my cycling dreams and I’m proud of all my accomplishments," she explained. "I realize now I need to concentrate on speed skating full-time."


Hughes is an immensely talented athlete, she remains the only Canadian to win medals in both the Summer and Winter Olympics. A mere seven weeks after strapping her skates on again, she made the national team.


Jean Dupre, Director General of Speed Skate Canada, is thrilled to have Hughes back full time.


"Canada is very excited about the recent announcement that Clara would skate again this season," said Dupre. "Clara has been and will continue to be an important component of our team."

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