Red Deer, Alta. relay swimmer takes silver in Tokyo
21-year-old Rebecca Smith of Red Deer helped secure one of Team Canada’s first medals at the Tokyo Olympic Games on Saturday.
“The reactions was great. I think there was many tears, happy tears for sure,” said her mother Sandi from the family’s home.
Smith was competing in the women’s 4 x 100m freestyle relay with teammates Penny Oleksiak, Kayla Sanchez and Margaret MacNeil, where they secured a second-place finish.
Her family held a watch party Saturday evening, taking in the entire performance.
“She has worked so hard since she was a little girl,” said sister Madalyn. “She’s just dedicated and she has always had that drive to go to the Olympics and wanted it really bad.”
The Smiths say while Rebecca was on the bus following her victory – she was able to Facetime with them.
Ecstatic about the victory, her parents Sandi and Scott say they are very proud.
“It’s very emotional but very exciting for her,” said Scott. “(We are) super proud of her, and very thankful to everyone. They talk about, ‘it takes a village’ and family, a lot of support and a lot of encouragement.”
The Smiths say it’s disappointing not to celebrate alongside Rebecca, but are excited to see her medal when she arrives home.
“Over a year ago, we were planning on going, we had time booked off, we were doing our research to go,” said Sandi. “But being home, definitely was a little bit different.”
Rebecca began swimming at the Roland Michener Recreation Centre when she was younger.
Mandi Smith, who is not related, coached Rebecca from seven years old until she was 16 at the Red Deer Catalina Swim Club.
Smith says this win showcases Red Deer on the world stage and says she is proud to play a part in Rebecca’s journey.
“Seeing that big smile, its one of those smiles that I have seen for years and years,” said Smith.
“As a little age grouper, as she came up and through and how she was selected to junior teams, provincial teams and national teams.”
Rebecca will compete again on Wednesday in the 4x200m relay.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
Nearly half of China's major cities are sinking, researchers say
Nearly half of China's major cities are suffering 'moderate to severe' levels of subsidence, putting millions at risk of flooding especially as sea levels rise.
American millionaire Jonathan Lehrer denied bail after being charged with killing Canadian couple
American millionaire Jonathan Lehrer, one of two men charged in the killings of a Canadian couple in Dominica, has been denied bail.
Prince Harry formally confirms he is now a U.S. resident
Prince Harry, the son of King Charles III and fifth in line to the British throne, has formally confirmed he is now a U.S. resident.
Judge says 'no evidence fully supports' murder case against Umar Zameer as jury starts deliberations
The judge presiding over the trial of a man accused of fatally running over a Toronto police officer is telling jurors the possible verdicts they may reach based on the evidence in the case.
Sports columnist apologizes for 'oafish' comments directed at Caitlin Clark. The controversy isn't over
A male columnist has apologized for a cringeworthy moment during former University of Iowa superstar and college basketball's highest scorer Caitlin Clark's first news conference as an Indiana Fever player.
Health Canada to change sperm donor screening rules for men who have sex with men
Health Canada will change its longstanding policy restricting gay and bisexual men from donating to sperm banks in Canada, CTV News has learned. The federal health agency has adopted a revised directive removing the ban on gay, bisexual and other men who have sex with men, effective May 8.
Colin Jost names one celebrity who is great at hosting 'Saturday Night Live'
Colin Jost, who co-anchors Saturday Night Live's 'Weekend Update,' revealed who he thinks is one of the best hosts on the show.
'Shopaholic' author Sophie Kinsella reveals brain cancer diagnosis
Sophie Kinsella, the best-selling author behind the 'Shopaholic' book series, has revealed that she is receiving treatment for brain cancer.
LeBlanc says he plans to run in next election, under Trudeau's leadership
Cabinet minister Dominic LeBlanc says he plans to run in the next election as a candidate under Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's leadership, amid questions about his rumoured interest in succeeding his longtime friend for the top job.