Let’s get to know Canada’s Sweetheart: the Calgary-born Olympic alpine skier Cassidy Gray. Known for bringing excitement and energy to Team Canada, Cassidy also has a habit of going viral with her hilarious, confessional social media videos. We talked to her about Tate McRae, family, blowing up on social media during the Milano Cortina Games, and how she got the nickname “Canada’s Sweetheart.”
What’s your go-to hype song before competing?
“Anything But Love” or “Nobody’s Girl” by Tate McRae!! (Canadian and Calgary ICON.)
How does this song make you feel?
Like an absolute girl boss. It gives me a little extra attitude and sass, and definitely a boost of confidence!
What’s usually going through your head right before you compete?
Normally something along the lines of “I f***ing got this,” followed by some technical cues.
What’s one thing about the life of an Olympian you wish more people understood?
We’re full-time athletes during the other three years, too. It means the world to us to have support during those years as well.
You went viral during the Milano Cortina Games. Can you tell us what that experience was like?
It was mostly just funny. I wasn’t thinking too much before posting. I was just doing single takes of whatever was on my mind. It was pretty funny to see how many people found me funny and supported me!
What’s the weirdest part about going viral?
Realizing that people actually liked me without knowing me that well. I was really surprised by how much positivity I received.
Do you have a lucky piece of jewellery or something you wear with special meaning?
My mom gave me the H&B Ski Charm while I was at the Olympics, and it’s been really special. I’ve worn it almost every day since.
You’ve now earned the nickname “Canada’s Sweetheart.” Tell us one surprising fact about Canada’s Sweetheart.
I actually started calling myself Canada’s Sweetheart. I like to think it's similar to dressing for the job you want.
What’s your hidden talent?
I played so many sports growing up, right up until I was 18, so I like to think I’m pretty good at a few other sports, too, not just skiing.
Which sports? What sport would you be playing if you weren’t skiing?
I played soccer until I was 18 and loved it. I still do a lot of CrossFit, so I think that would have been fun, too. I also really loved hockey but had to give it up at 15 because I kept getting hurt and missing skiing. I’m not entirely sure which sport would have become my main one, but probably one of those three.
How would you describe your personal style?
I love fun shapes and sleeves. Maybe a slightly elevated streetwear look with some standout pieces. I love interesting silhouettes and a fun belt to change up an outfit. I also love adding fun jewellery and accessories because I don’t think there’s such thing as too much. I like bright colours, too, so that’s fun to play around with.
What does your dream ski day look like?
A bluebird day with fluffy powder and temperatures just below zero. Definitely a coffee break somewhere in there, too, probably with my family. My dad would barbecue something for dinner, and some of my siblings’ friends and my friends would come hang out at our house. My parents love having a full house, so whether we have cousins up for the weekend or people dropping by, it’s usually pretty fun and loud
What’s one thing you love to talk about?
I love talking about my family. My parents and siblings are all incredible people who constantly inspire me and leave me in awe. My parents are both incredible in their own right. They were athletes growing up and throughout university, which helped them raise us with a love of sport without putting pressure on our performance. In the end, all my siblings and I became pretty good at a variety of sports, but our parents have always supported us regardless of the results.
My siblings have so many talents, from sports to academics. What I admire most is their different personalities and how each of them thrives in their own unique way.
