In the world of ski jumping, athletes are no strangers to facing challenges and fluctuations in their careers. Abi Strate, a 24-year-old Canadian ski jumper from Calgary, had a remarkable summer in 2025 marked by significant achievements and a heartbreaking setback.
During the 2025 Summer Grand Prix circuit, Strate showcased her prowess by securing five podium finishes, including a victory on the hill that will host the upcoming Milano-Cortina Olympic Winter Games.
However, her triumph was overshadowed by the unfortunate injury of her friend and teammate, Alex Loutitt, during the Olympic test event in Predazzo, Italy, in September.
Recalling the moment of Loutitt’s crash, Strate expressed her initial optimism upon seeing her walk away, only to be devastated upon learning the severity of the injury. The timing of the injury, right before the Games, added to the emotional weight of the situation for Strate.
Strate and Loutitt were part of the Canadian team that clinched a historic Olympic bronze medal in the mixed team event at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. Their success continued as they consistently graced the World Cup podiums leading up to the Milano-Cortina Games, with Strate crediting their mutual support and encouragement for their achievements.
Looking ahead, Strate faces the upcoming season with both hopes for medals and the added pressure resulting from Loutitt’s absence due to her knee surgery. Despite the increased expectations, Strate aims to view this challenge as a source of motivation and excitement rather than succumbing to pressure.
Handling the Weight of Expectation
With Loutitt out of competition, Strate acknowledges the added responsibility and the void left by her teammate’s absence. The dynamic of their supportive partnership, despite being competitors, left a lasting impression on their coach, Janko Zwitter.
Zwitter highlighted the unique bond between Strate and Loutitt, emphasizing their mutual support and lack of envy towards each other’s successes. The absence of Loutitt presents a new challenge for Strate, who will now navigate the season without her teammate’s presence.
As the winter competition season commences, Strate reflects on the adjustment required to compete without Loutitt’s companionship and support at the hill’s summit. She acknowledges the need to find new means of grounding herself and maintaining focus during her jumps.
Despite the challenges, Strate remains determined to build on her summer successes without solely fixating on podium placements as measures of achievement. Setting goals centered around performance and personal improvement, she aims to excel in the upcoming season.
Zwitter believes that Strate’s focus on personal excellence rather than podium finishes will be key to her success moving forward. By approaching each jump with the intention of giving her best performance, Strate is poised to have a rewarding season.
Looking ahead, Strate defines her success not by the accolades but by her ability to deliver exceptional jumps and leave nothing behind in her pursuit of excellence.