As the world’s premier athletes converge on Milano Cortina for the 2026 Winter Olympics and Paralympics, Canine Companions future service dog Champion will be part of the festivities.
No, you won’t see Champion on ice skates or pulling a bobsled in Italy, but this puppy partner of the United States Olympic and Paralympic Museum is set to take part in activities adjacent to the Winter Games at the venue in Colorado Springs, Colorado.
The USOPM is hosting a variety of events* concurrent with the Winter Olympics, which began with the Opening Ceremonies on Friday, Feb. 6.
Champion and volunteer puppy raiser Laurel participated in the Feb. 7 Downtown Winterfest* torch-lighting, where the public ushered in the start of the Games in style. Joining Champion were future dogs Merlin and Wasabi, pictured below posing in front of the Museum entrance and getting facetime with 2008 Beijing Summer Olympics gymnastics star Nastia Liukin.
The 2026 Winter Olympics conclude with the Closing Ceremonies on Sunday, Feb. 22. Competition continues with the Winter Paralympics running from March 6-15.
Visitors to the USOPM will have the opportunity to join in live watch parties, participate in Meet-and-Greets with Olympic athletes, and learn about historic artifacts that define the majesty of the Summer and Winter Games. Throughout the weeks, visitors will also be able to meet Champion!
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