Viewpoint

Carolyn Waldo

Sparked by Pride in Representing Canada

"It might sound corny, but I have always had a huge admiration for Canada," admits Carolyn Waldo, the Canadian who dominated synchronized swimming at the 1988 Seoul Olympics. She was the first woman in Canadian history to win two golds at the same Olympic games.

"My interest in Canada was sparked through sport. I remember when I was about 10 seeing a 14-year-old girl who was wearing a Canada Team jacket at a swimming pool. She was a competitive swimmer who would later go on to win a bronze medal at the 1976 Olympic Games in Montréal. It was from that point on when I decided I wanted to represent my country," says the former Montrealer who currently lives in Ottawa with her children.

"The first time I represented Canada, I was blown away by the instant respect Canada had worldwide. That's when I realized that I lived in a very special country. We're humble, honest, caring, yet very classy in victory or defeat."

As a six-time World Champion, Carolyn certainly knows about victory. Despite nearly drowning when she was three, she joined an aquatic club at 11 in 1975. By age 15, she was a national team member. At 19, Carolyn won silver medals in the 1984 Los Angeles Olympics and then won gold at the World Championships in Madrid. In 1988, in Seoul, she was Canada's first woman flag bearer in the opening ceremonies, and then went on to win golds in the solo and duet (with Michelle Cameron) synchronized swimming events. For such an achievement, she was named Canadian Athlete of the Year for an unprecedented second time. Carolyn is also a recipient of the Order of Canada.

"My other memory that defines Canadian culture for me was Terry Fox's journey across the country. His unselfishness and passion to help others was simply amazing," she reflects.

Carolyn, who has worked as a sportscaster and anchor for CJOH-TV (Ottawa) since 1990, says, "sport is a very important part of Canadian culture. It has created great patriotic memories and provides dreams for others. It has helped unite the country and gives Canadians an opportunity to wave their flag proudly."

She recalls that a nine-year-old girl asked her once, what her favourite country was during her years of international competition.

"My answer was simple, 'Canada!' It still is!"

Interview conducted in January 2005