Canada Summer Games 2025 Silver Medalist Kiira Saarenoja

August 27, 2025

The second week of August, I had the opportunity to represent Alberta on the national stage alongside 15 of my teammates from the Calgary Canoe Club at the 2025 Canada Summer games in St.John’s, Newfoundland. With more than 4,000 athletes competing across 19 sports, the atmosphere was unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. From pin trading and the opening ceremonies to spike ball and everything in between, it was inspiring to be constantly surrounded by like minded individuals who all strive to be the best version of themselves.

The racecourse at Quidi Vidi was no stranger to the type of conditions many of us on Team Alberta had faced before as we faced a gruesome headwind for the majority of the regatta. Going into racing, I was definitely nervous-not so much about placement, but about making the most of every race as an opportunity to learn and improve. Throughout the regatta, our team delivered strong performances that reflected the dedication and effort it takes to compete at an event as special as the Canada Summer Games.

When warming up for my C1 500m race, I approached it no differently than the other races I had already competed in that week. I knew it was another chance to line up against the same athletes I’d be racing at nationals and to showcase the work I’ve put into training this summer. What happened next exceeded every expectation I had for myself at the games as I earned a silver medal in the C1 500m. Standing on the podium with some of the fastest girls in the country, wearing that medal around my neck, was a humbling and unforgettable moment that I will always cherish.

This summer marks my fifth season as part of the Calgary Canoe Club family, and over those five years I’ve truly fallen in love with the sport of sprint canoeing. I am so grateful to see how my training, coaches, teammates, and overall support system has shaped me, not only as an athlete, but also as a person. Reflecting on how far I’ve come makes me extremely grateful for the support and experiences that have brought me here, and I look forward to building on them in the future!