Born: 1997
Biography:
Meryeta O’Dine is a Canadian snowboarder who has made a significant impact in the discipline of snowboard cross. Born on February 24, 1997, she has become known for her exceptional skills and determination on the slopes.
O’Dine’s journey in snowboarding began when she won a gold medal while representing British Columbia at the 2015 Canada Winter Games. This early success laid the foundation for her future achievements in the sport. In the 2016-17 FIS Snowboard World Cup season, she made her debut for Team Canada and quickly made her mark by securing her first podium finish, a bronze medal, at the stop in Feldberg, Germany. This accomplishment was particularly remarkable considering the challenges she had to overcome earlier that season. O’Dine had suffered a concussion in September 2016 and had nearly ruptured her ligament, but she persevered and continued to compete despite a bruised heel.
The following season proved to be another strong one for O’Dine. She consistently performed well, earning eight top 10 finishes, and formed a formidable partnership with Zoe Bergermann in women’s team snowboard cross. Her impressive form and dedication to the sport earned her a spot on Canada’s 2018 Olympic team for the snowboard cross event. However, her Olympic dreams were dashed when she suffered another concussion during training, rendering her unable to compete.
Tragically, in 2020, O’Dine’s brother was diagnosed with a brain tumor and passed away. This devastating loss, coupled with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, caused O’Dine to take a break from competition. During this time, she reflected on her future as an athlete and sought support from a psychologist to help her navigate through the grief. It was a challenging period for O’Dine, and she questioned whether she wanted to continue pursuing her athletic career.
In January 2021, O’Dine made her return to competition and once again took to the slopes for the World Cup season. Her resilience and determination paid off when she achieved a fourth-fastest qualifying time at the 2021 World Championships. However, she was eliminated in the first heat after a crash. Despite this setback, she remained focused and determined to prove herself on the international stage.
O’Dine’s dedication and determination were rewarded when she was named to Canada’s 2022 Olympic team for the snowboard cross event. She showcased her skills and ability during the Winter Olympics in Beijing. Just as in the previous World Championships, O’Dine exhibited her strength and talent in the qualifying rounds, finishing with the third-fastest time. She continued her impressive performance throughout the heats, winning every one of them, leading her to the final. In the final, she trailed behind Chloé Trespeuch and Lindsey Jacobellis but managed to secure her first Olympic medal, a bronze.
In addition to her individual success, O’Dine also competed in the inaugural mixed team snowboard cross event at the 2022 Winter Olympics. She teamed up with compatriot Éliot Grondin, and together they won the bronze medal, cementing her status as one of Canada’s top snowboarders.
O’Dine’s personal life has played a significant role in shaping her journey as an athlete. The loss of her brother challenged her both emotionally and mentally, forcing her to reassess her path in snowboarding and confront her deepest motivations. Through it all, she has emerged stronger and more determined, showcasing her resilience and inspiring others with her courage.
Awards:
– 2022 Winter Olympics: Bronze medal in Women’s snowboard cross
– 2022 Winter Olympics: Bronze medal in Mixed team snowboard cross