SAPPORO, Japan — Canada’s Abigail Strate continued her stellar path to Milano Cortina 2026, capturing back-to-back silver medals on the large hill at the FIS Ski Jumping World Cup in Sapporo, Japan.
The results mark another career milestone for the 24-year-old Calgarian, who now heads into the 2026 Olympic Winter Games having earned three consecutive World Cup medals.
Earlier this week, Strate claimed bronze on the normal hill in Zao, Japan, before soaring to double silver podium finishes in Sapporo – her first time earning multiple medals on the same weekend. Despite battling a cold throughout the week, the colourful Canuck delivered podium performances in three of four competitions during the Japan tour.
“It was definitely an interesting competition,” said Strate. “It was dumping snow and the wind really picked up toward the end. I had a strong jump, even though I was a bit frustrated with the landing. Everyone was struggling with the conditions, but technically my jump was solid. I stayed calm and focused, which made the difference.”
Due to snow and challenging windy weather conditions, the competition was reduced to a single round with no qualification. Strate soared 128.5 metres, earning 129.2 points to secure silver on Sunday. It was her fifth World Cup podium of the season and 10th of her career.
“I really went for it and gave everything I had,” Strate added. “To finish the Japan block with three podiums is incredibly satisfying. This has been the best experience I’ve had in Japan, and I feel like I’m in a perfect place heading into the final training and recovery period before the Games. The energy with the coaches is really good, and I’m excited for what’s ahead.”
Slovenia’s Nika Prevc won gold with 134.5 points, while Norway’s Heidi Traaserud took bronze at 124.6 points.
Earlier in the Olympic year, Strate also earned silver medals on the large hill in Lillehammer, Norway, and in Poland. The women’s large hill ski jumping event will make its Olympic debut at the 2026 Winter Games.
Canada’s Nicole Maurer of Calgary finished 35th in the Sapporo competition.
A certified beekeeper and graphic designer, Strate has been buzzing throughout the Olympic season, consistently competing with the world’s best while stacking both distance and style points. She launched her breakout year with a dominant summer Grand Prix season, earning podium finishes in all five events she entered — including victories in Courchevel, France, and at the 2026 Olympic venue in Val di Fiemme, Italy.
“These were my last competitions before the Games, so it’s exciting to finish on such a high note,” Strate said.
The Canadian team will return to their home training base in Slovenia for their final preparations for the the Olympic Games.
Complete World Cup Ski Jumping Results
Ski Jumping Canada is the governing federation for ski jumping in Canada. It is responsible for the governance of all ski jumping competitions in Canada and for the operation of the national team. For more information, please visit skijumpingcanada.com.
