Elizabeth Manley

Class of 2001: Athlete

From the time she first laced up her brother’s hand-me-down skates at age five, this skater exhibited a unique on-ice presence of grace, speed and incredible jumping prowess. In 1979, while still a junior, she became the first Canadian woman to land a triple jump combination in competition, a triple salchow followed by a double loop. Moving to the senior division in 1981, she earned a bronze medal in her first year going on to become a three time Canadian Champion in 1985, 87 and 88.

Competing on the international circuit, her 1986 gold medal performance at Skate Canada and her 4th place showing at the 1987 World Championships set the stage for what would be her most successful and memorable season. Her electrifying free skate at the 1988 Calgary Olympics, which included five triple jumps, captured her a silver medal and the hearts of all Canadians. Demonstrating her true skating abilities, she repeated her silver medal performance at the 1988 World Championships.

Retiring from amateur competition following the 1988 season, and being awarded the Order of Canada, she went on to enjoy additional success on the professional circuit.