Anne Merklinger

Chief Executive Officer
Own the Podium

An elite athlete for most of her life, Anne Merklinger was a member of Canada's national swim team from 1977–1981. Anne earned a silver medal at the 1979 World University Games in the 200‐metre breaststroke.

After a distinguished swimming career, Anne focused on curling and since the early 1980's she competed with distinction at every major event she entered. She was consistently ranked as one of Canada's foremost curlers, winning the Ontario Women’s Curling Championships in 1993, 1994, 1998 and 2000. She has twice led her team to the final of the Scott Tournament of Hearts (1998 and 2000).

A passionate, creative, and inspiring leader, Anne has more than 35 years of management experience with national sport organizations. Prior to becoming CEO, Anne held the position of Director, Summer Sports with Own the Podium. She previously worked with CanoeKayak Canada in the role of Director General, and has also worked with the Commission for Inclusion of Athletes with a Disability and the Canadian Federation of Sport Organization for the Disabled.

Anne’s life‐long experience in sport as an athlete and professional is complemented by extensive volunteer experience with a number of organizations including the Sandra Schmirler Foundation, Women’s Tour of Curling, Women and Sport, and Special Olympics Canada.