Hughes first made her mark in cycling, winning two bronze medals at the 1996 Olympic Games in Atlanta. She then transitioned to speed skating, where she achieved significant success. Her most memorable sporting achievement came when she won the gold medal in the 5000m at the 2006 Olympic Winter Games in Turin.

Challenges and Injuries

Throughout her career, Hughes faced several injuries. In 1997, she suffered from a chronic ankle injury that continued throughout 1998. During the 2003/04 season, she dealt with a back injury. In 2012, she went to hospital as a precaution after a crash in the Gatineau Grand Prix.

Influences and Philosophy

Hughes credits her former coach Eric van den Eynde as the most influential person in her career. Her mother is her hero. She lives by the motto: "Live in the moment and make the most out of every opportunity."

Awards and Honours

Hughes is the first Canadian to win medals at both the Olympic Summer and Winter Games. She has six Olympic medals: two bronze from Atlanta 1996, one gold and one silver from Turin 2006, and one bronze from Vancouver 2010. She was also the flag bearer for Canada at the 2010 Winter Olympic Games.

In recognition of her achievements, Hughes was awarded the Order of Manitoba in 2006 and made an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2007. She received an honorary doctorate of law from the University of Manitoba in 2008.

Personal Life and Interests

Hughes resides in Glen Sutton, Quebec with her husband Peter. She holds a degree in Visual Arts from the University of Calgary. Outside of sports, she enjoys bird watching.

Troubled Teen Years

Despite her success, Hughes admits she had a troubled adolescence. She experimented with drugs and smoked a pack of cigarettes a day. Reflecting on that period, she acknowledges how different her life could have been if she had continued down that path.

Right to Play

Hughes has also been involved in charitable activities. After winning the 5000m at the 2006 Winter Olympics, she donated USD$10,000 to Right to Play, an organisation that uses sport for child development in disadvantaged areas. Inspired by Joey Cheek's donation of his gold medal bonus to the same cause, Hughes contributed from her personal savings as Canada does not offer gold medal bonuses.

Future Plans

Looking ahead, Hughes plans to continue her involvement in sports and charitable activities. Her dedication to both fields remains unwavering as she aims to inspire future generations through her actions and achievements.