Stephen Gogolev Takes Early Lead at Canadian Figure Skating Championships

Toronto skater Stephen Gogolev surged into the lead at the Canadian Figure Skating Championships after delivering a near-flawless short program, strengthening his bid for Canada’s lone men’s singles Olympic spot.

Stephen Gogolev produced a confident and composed performance on Friday night to take the lead after the men’s short program at the Canadian Figure Skating Championships, held before a sold-out crowd at Centre Slush Puppie.

The 21-year-old from Toronto, known for his typically reserved demeanor, showed visible emotion after skating cleanly to the “Mugzy’s Move” medley. Gogolev landed two quadruple jumps and a triple axel to earn 99.60 points, placing him well ahead of the field.

“I’ve been the most relaxed I’ve ever been on ice,” Gogolev said, adding that the supportive crowd helped him skate with ease and confidence.

Vancouver’s Wesley Chiu finished second with 89.14 points, while Aleksa Rakic of New Westminster, British Columbia, placed third with 83.60.

Once considered a prodigy for becoming the youngest skater to land multiple quad jumps, Gogolev’s career was slowed by a growth spurt that led to back issues. Friday marked his first appearance at the national championships since 2023 and capped a strong comeback season in which he has recorded several personal bests.

Despite his commanding lead, Gogolev remained cautious ahead of Saturday’s free program, stating that the competition is far from over.

Reigning national champion Roman Sadovsky, a co-favourite entering the event, dropped to fourth place after mistakes on his triple axel combination, scoring 81.79. Sadovsky acknowledged feeling pressure after hearing Gogolev’s score announced before his skate.

The two skaters are competing against each other for the fifth time this season, with each having won two previous encounters. Their rivalry will play a crucial role in determining Canada’s sole men’s singles representative for the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympics, though Skate Canada’s selection criteria consider performances over multiple seasons.

Veteran skater Keegan Messing, a two-time Olympian who returned from retirement last year, finished seventh after a shaky performance but received a standing ovation from the crowd. The 33-year-old said his return was motivated by passion rather than results.

In the pairs competition, reigning world champions Deanna Stellato-Dudek and Maxime Deschamps led the short program with 78.35 points. Stellato-Dudek drew significant attention for debuting a glittering gold costume designed by Oscar de la Renta — the fashion house’s first-ever figure skating outfit.

Competition continues on Saturday with a full schedule, beginning with the rhythm dance.