Canadian ice dance duo Piper Gilles and Paul Poirier are gearing up for what could potentially be their last competitive season on the ice. Despite this, they are not treating it as a farewell tour. With their sights set on the Milan-Cortina Games in February, the pair is determined to secure a podium finish at the Olympics, emphasizing their focus on the present rather than contemplating the future.
Gilles and Poirier, in their 15th season together, have established themselves as top contenders in the ice dance world. Their impressive track record includes consecutive world championship medals, with a bronze in 2023 and back-to-back silvers in the following years. Both skaters will be 34 when they compete in Milan, and while they are fully committed to the current season, their longtime coach Carol Lane anticipates that this may be their final campaign.
The duo is revisiting their beloved “Vincent” free dance program from the 2018-2019 season, aiming to bring a fresh perspective to the routine while staying true to their identity as skaters. Gilles and Poirier are enthusiastic about unlocking the program’s full potential and showcasing their growth and evolution as athletes.
Reflecting on their Olympic experiences, the pair acknowledges the challenges they faced in previous Games and the lessons learned from those moments. They are focused on the upcoming Skate Canada International and are taking a one-year-at-a-time approach, avoiding looking too far into the future.
As Gilles and Poirier prepare for what may be their final performances together, their dedication and passion for the sport remain unwavering. Their journey is marked by milestones and memorable routines, creating a legacy that will be celebrated and cherished by fans and supporters alike.