Pereira, Michaud pull off upset to win Canadian pairs title
In a stunning turn of events, figure skaters Lia Pereira and Trennt Michaud captured the Canadian pairs title with an impressive score of 204.14 points. Their free skate routine garnered 135.03 points, allowing them to surpass seasoned veterans Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps, who have long held the top spot in this competition.
The moment unfolded dramatically as Pereira and Michaud were in the mixed zone, responding to media questions. They were met with the life-changing scores displayed on a nearby television screen. “Oh my God! We won!” Pereira exclaimed, nearly in tears of disbelief, as she embraced Michaud, who was overcome with emotion. Their victory was solidified by the mistakes made by Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps during the critical free skate performance.
With their reintroduced “Gladiator” routine from the 2023-24 season, Pereira and Michaud not only shined in execution but overcame a significant point deficit of over nine points established during Friday’s short program. The end result saw Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps settle for silver and Kelly Ann Laurin with Loucas Éthier taking home the bronze.
“This is what we live for,” Michaud declared passionately, while Pereira added, “This is unbelievable.” She detailed the dedication they had poured into the sport over their three-and-a-half years together: “We’ve really put in the work, and this is going to be a good moment to sit with for a little while.”
The duo formed in August 2022, with Michaud seeking a new partner after the retirement of Evelyn Walsh. Remembering their early days, Pereira recounted Michaud’s ambitious prediction of future national championships: “I can see the future, a bunch of gold medals.” Indeed, the confidence they shared has proved prophetic.
As they prepare for the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympics, both Pereira and Michaud firmly earned their spot amongst Canada’s skating team. Meanwhile, Stellato-Dudek and Deschamps, despite concerns over Stellato-Dudek’s recent illness, plan to recover swiftly for the Olympic Games. “I’m gonna skate no matter what,” she insisted, demonstrating the unwavering spirit seen in Olympic competitors.
This championship featured thrilling twists reminding fans why figure skating continues to captivate audiences across Canada and beyond.
