Athlete Profile

Holly Smith

Team Canada Program Athlete 2026 / 2026: Junior Development Squad

About

  • Born: 2010
  • Hometown: Ottawa
  • Currently Living: Ottawa
  • Orienteers for: Ottawa Orienteering Club
  • Occupation: Student and Orienteering Coach
  • Instagram: h.smith.18

Q&A

Q: What would you say is the most overlooked element of orienteering training and why?
A: The most overlooked element is practicing navigation while tired. A lot of people work on fitness or do map exercises but not many combine the two. In races, you’re almost always making decisions while your heart rate is high, so training your brain to stay calm and accurate when you’re tired makes a huge difference.
Q: What aspect of orienteering keep you interested and motivated to stay involved, train, and compete?
A: I love the mix of physical challenge and problem-solving. Every course feels like a puzzle and it’s fun knowing that the smartest runner, not just the fastest, wins. Plus the community is really supportive, and the feeling of finding a control exactly where you expected it is super satisfying.

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