#WeAreWinter: athletes, artists and access

The Canadian Olympic Team has kicked off 2014 with a series of short films that gives the world a glimpse into the dedication and commitment of the country’s winter athletes.

In a word (and hashtag): #WeAreWinter.

Canadian film director and producer Henry Lu was given access to some of Canada’s top medal hopefuls for Sochi 2014 and documented that experience in photos on his personal Instagram account.

Kaillie Humphries‘ steps on fresh snow (as seen in above video)

Pure power – Humphries with Chelsea Valois at WinSport

Click to watch all #WeAreWinter videos

The project began 16 months ago, with scenes involving athletes coming into sharp focus in early 2013, mostly between February to April, in the making of their personal documentaries.

Canadian flag hangs above the short track team dressing room

Arguably the most dominant athlete in any sport heading to Sochi, Charles Hamelin

Scenes were filmed on location in Calgary, Montreal, Quebec City and Whistler. Oh! Whistler.

At the peak

Another medal hopeful, Mikaël Kingsbury making his way to the top

In addition to the documentaries and commercials that will air on CBC – the official Olympic broadcaster – fans on social media platforms will be treated to breathtaking still images captured by photographer Chris Gordaneer (Sochi medal contender Mark McMorris below).

Mark McMorris

#WeAreWinter is a result of athletes giving access to artists, and through their vision fans get a little closer to their heroes in sharing the pride that will be felt from coast to coast to coast, when each Canadian medal winner steps on the podium at Sochi.

More behind the scenes photos