As the world celebrates Olympic Day 2026, skaters are sharing a simple but powerful message: You Can Do This!

Through Figure Skating, Speed Skating, Short Track and Synchronized Skating, skaters are encouraging young people to take their first step into sport, build confidence and discover the joy of movement. While every skater's journey is unique, they all share one thing in common: each began with a single stride on the ice.

This year's Olympic Day campaign serves as a reminder that confidence is not something people are born with. It is built through trying something new, embracing challenges and believing that progress comes one step at a time.

Every champion starts with a first step

Behind every Olympic performance is a story of perseverance.

Long before they competed on the world's biggest stages, elite skaters were beginners learning new skills, overcoming setbacks and finding the courage to keep going after every fall. Whether in Figure Skating, Speed Skating, Short Track or Synchronized Skating, growth comes from showing up, putting in the effort and trusting the process.

Olympic Day celebrates the many benefits of sport and physical activity, from physical wellbeing to mental resilience and social connection. Across the skating community, those benefits are felt every day. Skating offers opportunities to build confidence, form lasting friendships and become part of a supportive community that encourages personal growth both on and off the ice.

Whether stepping onto the ice for the first time, joining a local skating club or simply being active with friends and family, every journey begins with a single move. The message from skaters around the world is clear: don't be afraid to take that first step.

Skaters share their Olympic Day messages

To celebrate Olympic Day, skaters from around the world shared personal messages of encouragement for young people who may be considering taking their first step into sport.

Watch their Olympic Day messages here!

Ivanie Blondin 

Wenjing Sui

Viktor Knoch

Tessa Tamminen

Donovan Carrillo