China’s Ajemaer Adake bested Ponoka’s Maddison Pearman during the 1,500-metre speed skating event at the 2022 Winter Olympics on Monday.
Adake crossed the finish line with a time of 1:58.60 and Pearman finished at 1:59.89.
Pearman posted on Instagram after her event.
“Today I had my first race here in Beijing. And today I officially become an Olympian.
“In the past 21 years there has been countless tears and days where I wondered if this dream would ever come true. I’m here and I’m so incredibly thankful for incredible support from friends, family, and everyone around me. I’m so grateful and I’m so proud to represent Canada.”
Strong showing by @maddisonpearman #BeijingWinterOlympics pic.twitter.com/Qu0ev0X3w7
— Speed Skating Canada | Patinage de Vitesse Canada (@SSC_PVC) February 7, 2022
Pearman is representing Canada in four Olympic speed skating events, including the 500 metres, 1,000 metres, 1,500 metres and the mass start race.