Visiting Teams
Train with the best at the Olympic Oval, Canada's ISU Centre of Excellence.
Welcome to Canada's ISU Centre of Excellence
Train Where Champions Are Made
Welcome to Canada—and welcome to the Olympic Oval in Calgary, home of the fastest ice in the world.
Join athletes from around the globe at one of the most iconic training centers on the planet. As an ISU Center of Excellence, the Oval offers more than just world-class ice—it delivers elite coaching, high-altitude performance advantages, and a legacy built on Olympic excellence.
Whether you're an emerging talent or a seasoned pro, this is your place to push limits, chase podiums, and skate alongside the best of the best.
Ready to level up?
Train at the Oval—where speed meets Olympic legacy.
Welcome Message
Dear Athletes,
On behalf of the entire Olympic Oval team at the University of Calgary, it is my great pleasure to welcome you to the Fastest Ice in the World™—and to thank you for choosing Calgary as your training home.
We’re thrilled to have you here for what promises to be another incredible year—our 39th season of high-performance excellence!
Whether you’re returning or visiting for the first time, please know that our team is deeply committed to creating an environment where you can perform at your absolute best. From meticulously maintained ice conditions to elite dryland training facilities, everything we do is designed to support your goals.
We are equally proud to be part of your journey, and to help nurture the next generation of long- and short-track speed skating champions. While you’re here, we hope you experience not only top-tier training, but also the warmth, professionalism, and hospitality that Canada is known for.
Should you have any questions, requests, or feedback during your time with us, please don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help—on and off the ice.
Wishing you a successful and inspiring 2025/26 season!
Warm regards,
Mark Messer
Director, Olympic Oval
University of Calgary
Why Train at the Olympic Oval?
Built for the ’88 Olympics, the Oval is Canada’s home of speed. It’s not just the altitude or humidity—it’s the legendary ice crew behind the scenes. Their precision, tech savvy, and obsession with perfect ice make the Oval one the fastest and smoothest track in the world. From Olympic hopefuls to first-time skaters, this is where athletes train for Gold.
Visting Team Benefits
International skaters and teams are invited to train at the Olympic Oval in Calgary. Athletes will have the opportunity to train alongside top Canadian development teams, gaining exposure to high-performance programs while contributing to the growth of speed skating in emerging nations. The Oval offers an excellent training environment for those not competing in ISU Junior or Neo-Senior World Cups, serving as a crucial step toward more senior-level racing. Convenient hotel accomodations are available near the Olympic Oval. The Oval also provides support with Canadian visa applications for non-Canadian athletes and staff, making it an accessible and welcoming hub for global speed skating development.
Canadian Athlete Benefits
Canadian skaters have the unique opportunity to train alongside Team Canada and top international athletes, gaining valuable experience and exposure. This environment supports late-developing skaters, offering them the time and resources to mature at their own pace. With increased access to senior-level racing and a stable training base for those not traveling to ISU World Cups, athletes can continue progressing without disruption. This setup also allows Canadian development teams to concentrate on juniors from their own regions, while Canadian skaters benefit from consistent, high-quality training. Accommodations are available for those relocating from other parts of the country.
Before You Arrive
Completing these steps will help us to best prepare for your team's arrival and will significantly decrease check-in time at the front desk.
Complete the Team Registration Form
Please fill out this form with the information of all your athletes and staff. Once completed please email forms to ovalguestservices@ucalgary.ca
Complete Your Waivers Online
You can now complete your waiver online in advance of your arrival in Calgary.
International Athletes
|
2025/2026 Rates (GST Incl.) |
|
|
Daily |
$40.00 |
|
Weekly |
$197.00 |
|
Monthly |
$686.00 |
|
Stage 2 Season |
$4,387.00 |
|
Stage 3 & 4 Season |
$5,758.00 |
Elite Pathway Drop-in
|
2025/2026 Rates (GST Incl.) |
|
|
Daily |
$40.00 |
|
Weekly |
$197.00 |
|
One Month |
$686.00 |
|
Two Months |
$1,028.00 |
|
Three Months |
$1,371.00 |
Canadian Visiting Athletes
|
2025/2026 Season (GST Incl.) |
|
|
Daily |
$27.75 |
|
Weekly |
$138.75 |
|
Monthly |
$481.00 |
|
Season |
$3,244.00 |
Time Trials
|
2025/2026 Rates |
|
|
Long Track Single Competition |
$22.50 |
|
Single Distance Series |
$47.50 |
Facility Hours and Bookings
Introducing 'Blades Without Borders'
Starting in Summer 2025, we are introducing Blades Without Borders — a 30-day elite training program for speed skaters from around the world.
Train with specially discounted rates, with access to top-tier coaching, hotel accommodations, and optional meal plans designed to fuel your performance.
COMING SOON
Book your accommodations with one of our partner hotels and receive exclusive discounts for Olympic Oval guests. Click here
University of Calgary and Surrounding Area
The Olympic Oval is located on the University of Calgary campus — a central hub for athletes from around the world. Surrounded by hotels, shopping, entertainment, and dining options, it's the only speed skating facility globally designed to meet the modern demands of training, accessibility, and convenience.