Anastasia Bucsis represents the next generation of Canadian speed skaters.

She started speed skating at the age of four, inspired by the opportunity to see such legends in the sport as Catriona Le May Doan, Susan Auch and Kevin Crockett compete at the Calgary Oval. Now, at the age of 20, the Calgarian is one of the youngest members of the national World Cup team and still in awe of many of her teammates.

“I’ve always been star-struck and still am,” she said, putting Kristina Groves and Christine Nesbitt at the top of the list. “Both have taught me a lot and kept me grounded. They’ve shown me that hard work does pay off.”

Bucsis made a major breakthrough at last week’s World Cup trials at the Richmond Olympic Oval, which will host long-track speed skating for the 2010 Winter Games next February. Her third-place finish in the women’s 500-metre event in one minute, 20.14 seconds qualified her to represent Canada on the World Cup circuit. She’ll make her World Cup debut Nov. 6 in Berlin.

“I am so happy, it’s the highlight of my career so far,” she said. “I think the team’s the strongest it’s ever been, so I’m just really excited to see what we can do.”

A communications student at the University of Calgary, Bucsis relies on strong time management skills and a positive outlook to keep her life balanced. Canada’s top speed skaters train hard for 11 months and it takes most of the remaining four weeks of the year to recover.

“You kind of have to learn to really relax, but it’s weird because our bodies are so mentally trained,” she said. “It’s almost like we’re thoroughbred horses, we’re competitive all the time.”

Bucsis is fortunate to have a strong supporting network. Her family and friends are excited for her, though she questions how much they understand the dedication and commitment she has to make to speed skating. She also finds relief from the rigours of training in a wide range of hobbies including acting and love of theatre and film.

On the ice, Bucsis hasn’t yet felt the pressure that comes with success. But she carries plenty of self-imposed expectations.

“I had a few slow years growing up and I think those really put things in perspective and made me realize I love this sport and the life I can lead because of it,” she said. “Even when you’re doing a really hard program you just thank God this is what you’re doing instead of working nine to five.”

But Bucsis hasn’t allowed herself to think much beyond the present—and certainly not the Olympics.

“That’s a dream,” she said. “One of our coaches has a good quote—’It’s about today, not tomorrow.’ People can get really caught up in what others are saying and lose site of the big picture. So I kind of concentrate on myself now and watch my progress. I don’t want to count myself out (qualifying for the 2010 Games) but I’m very happy with where I am and I think I will only get better.”