Two Olympic medallists to lead Calgary Stampede parade on July 3

The Calgary Stampede has named two Canadian Olympians as parade marshals for this year's celebration: Mikaël Kingsbury, a freestyle skier with five Olympic medals, and Courtney Sarault, a short-track speedskater with four. They'll lead the parade through downtown Calgary on the morning of July 3.

"Courtney and Mikaël embody the passion, perseverance and excellence we celebrate at the Calgary Stampede," said Stuart O'Connor, president and board chair of the Stampede. "As world-class athletes who have inspired youth on a global stage, they are fitting ambassadors."

Sarault, who earned more medals than any other Canadian athlete at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan — two silver and two bronze — said she's been wanting to experience the Stampede for years. "I remember just being so excited because I've wanted to go to the Stampede for years," she said. "It was just a really surreal moment that I was chosen to do that."

She's looking forward to riding a horse and getting "full Western" in her outfit. A country music fan, she also hopes to catch concerts, check out the rodeo, and experience what friends have been telling her about. "I know it's a huge thing in Calgary, and to be even considered to be the parade marshal — I don't take that job lightly," she said.

Sarault has trained in Calgary at the Olympic Oval, which has given her some familiarity with the city.