The 2014 Winter Olympics are just around the corner, and Sam Edney is ready for them. A long-standing member of the Canadian luge team, Sam was born and raised in Calgary, AB, and grew up spending time on the ski hill, basketball court, soccer field, and mountain biking. In Grade 9, his teacher considered him a perfect candidate for a Winter Olympic sports recruitment camp, where he was first introduced to Luge. 15 years later, he is a six-time Men’s National Champion, and posted the Canadian best ever 7th place finish in Men’s Singles Luge at the 2010 Olympic Games in Whistler.
Sam’s now preparing for his third Olympics in Sochi, Russia, where he’ll be competing in both Singles Luge and as a member of the Canadian Team Relay in the event’s Olympic debut. When he’s not busy training and posting amazing finish times, you may just spot him on 17th Ave.
What do you love about 17th? What keeps you coming back?
17th avenue is a centerpiece of Calgary. It has so much to offer at any time of day and that’s what keeps me coming back – whether for coffee, breakfast or brunch in the morning; shopping and lunch midday or drinks, dinner and a party in the evening – it has something for all hours of the day.
Describe your perfect day on the avenue.
It would start with riding my bike to 17th, then sitting on the patio of Analog, enjoying a slow pour. Then I’d grab brunch at FARM before heading to the Ship to watch Man City win the Champion’s League. Once they win, I’d celebrate with some beers on the patio. Then I’d head back west and pick out some music or grab some concert tickets at Sloth Records, and have another meal at Market. Afterwards, I’d wander east again for some more drinks at National on the patio with friends – all this drinking taking place post Olympic season obviously!!
Sounds like an awesome day! What are some of your other 17th Ave faves?
- Best haircut – Go see Kelly at Chrome!
- Best shopping – Leo Boutique for threads and Gravity Pope for shoes.
- Best late night eats – Clive Burger.
What are you most excited about heading into the Olympics this year?
I’m most looking forward to my third Olympic Games knowing that I am in peak form leading into them. I have Olympic experience and know what to expect when I get there. Also, I’m confident that I’ve done everything I could to be ready for my competition. I’m in great physical condition, have a great sled that is running fast, and mentally I am confident with my sliding. I aim to better my Vancouver Whistler Games placing, better than 7th. And obviously the podium is where I want to be with that result. In the team relay we aim to win a medal for Canada.
What competitions can we look forward to seeing you in at Sochi?
Men’s luge competition on Feb 8 & 9, so watch for me then. After that, I’ll be cheering on my teammates for three days until I compete in the Team Relay on Feb 11. The team relay is a must watch! Three sleds, continuous time and two sleds in the track at the same time. It’s also the Olympic debut of the event and we are heavy favourites for a medal!
The 2014 Winter Olympics take place from Feb 7 – 23, 2014. Be sure to watch Sam and his team compete in these exciting Olympic events this weekend, and stay up-to-date on all things Sam by following him online below:
Twitter: @samueledney
Instagram: samueledney
Facebook: facebook.com/samedneyfp