A New Brunswicker will help to lead the 2026 Calgary Stampede parade through downtown Calgary.
Olympic speed skater Courtney Saurault has been chosen, along with freestyle skier Mikaël Kingsbury, as parade marshals.
Sarault, who is from Moncton, is a four-time Olympic medallist, winning a silver medal in the mixed 2000-metre relay, a silver medal in the women’s 1000-meter, a bronze medal in the women’s 500-metre and a bronze medal in the women’s 3000-metre relay at the Milano Cortina Olympic Games.
“Attending the Calgary Stampede has long been a dream of mine, so the opportunity to take part as Parade Marshal is surreal and thrilling,” says Sarault. “Calgary has been a big part of my journey – I trained in Calgary at the Olympic Oval for a few years, so Calgary has a really special place in my heart. I’m so excited to join everyone in this celebration.”
Kingsbury, who is from Quebec, most recently served as Canada’s Opening Ceremonies flag bearer and captured both gold and silver to become the most decorated male freestyle skier in Olympic history.
“Courtney and Mikaël embody the passion, perseverance and excellence we celebrate at the Calgary Stampede,” says Stuart O’Connor, President & Chair of the Board at the Calgary Stampede. “As world-class athletes who have inspired youth on a global stage, they are fitting ambassadors, and we are proud to welcome them as our 2026 Parade Marshals and continue the Stampede’s long tradition of celebrating Canada’s Olympians.”
The Calgary Stampede parade will be held on July 3.
