Canada’s Relay Dreams in Question: How Will the Team Fare Without Star Swimmer Penny Oleksiak?…Read More…
July 6, 2025 — Montreal, Canada
With the 2025 World Aquatics Championships just days away and the Paris Olympics looming on the horizon, Canadian swimming fans are grappling with a pressing and emotional question: how will Team Canada’s relay squads perform without their most decorated Olympian, Penny Oleksiak?
The 24-year-old Toronto native and seven-time Olympic medalist was officially ruled out of the competition after announcing that she is not yet fully recovered from her long-term knee and shoulder rehabilitation. Though she’s been training quietly and progressing in her recovery, Oleksiak and her medical team, in consultation with Swimming Canada, agreed that pushing for a rushed return in a high-stakes meet like Worlds would do more harm than good.
A Nation Without Its Anchor
Oleksiak has long been a cornerstone of Canada’s relay teams. Her powerful closing strokes helped secure podium finishes in both freestyle and medley events at the Olympics and World Championships. Her absence leaves a gaping hole not just in terms of speed, but in morale and leadership as well.
“We’re definitely missing a big piece of our puzzle,” admitted coach Ben Titley. “Penny brings not just world-class times but a veteran presence and an aura of calm in high-pressure moments. That’s hard to replicate.”
The Numbers Game: Where Canada Stands
Canada’s relay squads—particularly the women’s 4x100m freestyle, 4x200m freestyle, and 4x100m medley—have historically been among the strongest globally. The nation shocked the world with bronze and silver medals at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Olympics, often with Oleksiak playing a central role.
Without her, the depth will be tested. Young swimmers like Summer McIntosh, Taylor Ruck, Maggie Mac Neil, and Mary-Sophie Harvey will now need to step into even more prominent roles. McIntosh, just 18, is already being seen as the natural successor to Oleksiak in terms of both talent and media attention.
“Penny’s shoes are huge to fill,” said McIntosh. “But she’s been incredibly supportive behind the scenes. We’ve all grown up watching her dominate, and now it’s our turn to rise.”
The numbers suggest Canada can still compete, though podium finishes are far less assured. In the latest international rankings, Canada’s average relay splits without Oleksiak place them 4th or 5th in most events, with the U.S., Australia, and China often outpacing them.
Rising Stars Ready to Shine
Taylor Ruck, who has battled her own mental health challenges in recent years, looks revitalized and strong in training. Her smooth technique and experience as a multiple-time Olympian will be key in anchoring relays. Mac Neil, meanwhile, is best known for her explosive butterfly, but she’s also a solid freestyle leg when needed.
Swimming Canada’s high-performance director, John Atkinson, remains optimistic. “We’ve invested in depth for this exact reason. No team can rely on a single athlete forever. We’ve built a roster of tough, talented women who are more than capable.”
Among the newcomers, 16-year-old Lila Harris has been turning heads. She recently clocked a 54.02 in the 100m freestyle at Canadian Trials—a time that could earn her a spot on the 4x100m team. If selected, she’d be the youngest member of the squad, echoing Oleksiak’s own breakout moment at 16 in Rio.
Strategic Adjustments and Team Chemistry
Team Canada’s coaching staff will likely shift their strategy to account for the absence of Oleksiak’s explosive closing ability. Rather than relying on a single anchor leg to catch up or seal victory, they may balance the relay with strong middle legs to stay competitive throughout.
“Relay chemistry is crucial,” said assistant coach Michelle Simmons. “It’s not just about speed—it’s about baton timing, trust, and understanding your teammates. That’s something we’ve been focusing on every day.”
Despite the challenges, insiders say the team’s morale remains strong. Oleksiak herself has been attending practices and sending encouragement via video calls when unable to join in person.
“She’s our big sister,” said Mary-Sophie Harvey. “Even when she’s not in the pool with us, she’s guiding us. That kind of leadership is rare.”
Looking Beyond Worlds: Eyes on Paris
There’s still hope that Oleksiak will be healthy in time for the Paris Olympics in 2026. By then, she will have had ample time to rebuild strength, refine her technique, and return to form. The team is operating with a two-track mindset—competing hard in her absence now while keeping a long-term vision centered on her return.
Canada has shown before that it can thrive under pressure and surprise the world. The relay squads, bolstered by hungry newcomers and inspired veterans, could still make waves in Fukuoka and beyond.
One thing’s for sure: Penny Oleksiak’s legacy is far from over—and neither is Canada’s fight for the podium.
As Oleksiak herself posted on Instagram following her withdrawal announcement: “This team has heart. I’ll be cheering them on every stroke of the way. And when I return… we’re going for gold.”
Leave a Reply