Meet the Swans

Robert isn’t exactly the perfect model of motivation. In fact, he’s happiest when he’s just floating along, letting the current take him wherever it pleases. His motto? “Go with the flow” - obviously. Ask him what’s going on, and he’ll give you a blank stare or an unenthusiastic shrug. He’s blissfully unaware of schedules, goals, and the stress of everyday life. But today, Robert’s lounging about has been disrupted. 

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Clearly there has been some sort of mix up here, because apparently he is supposed to flap, paddle, and swim his way to some finish line he hasn’t even bothered to locate yet. Other swans are stretching and warming up, but Robert is just kind of… there, looking around and hoping nobody expects too much from him. By chance, the racing coordinators discovered there is one trait Robert has that could lead him to succeed in this race - food motivation!

 

Will one strategically placed carrot and stick be the one element to bring Robert success?

Swanson is the life of the pond and is always down for a good time. He’s the kind of swan who’s more familiar with pond parties than race training, but when someone dared him to enter the big race, he couldn’t turn it down. After all, his motto is, “Go big or go home.”

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Training? Not really Swanson’s thing. He figures his natural swan strength and confidence will be enough to carry him across the finish line. He’s spent more time hyping himself up and trash-talking his competitors than actually swimming laps.  Most of his “training sessions” consist of cruising around the pond, splashing his friends, and doing cannonballs just to impress a certain figure skater. 

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Will he win? Maybe, maybe not. But one thing’s for sure: Swanson’s going to make it the most unforgettable race anyone’s ever seen.

Eloise is as stylish as they come. With her pastel bows, delicate feathers, and sparkly accessories, she’s the picture of beauty and femininity. But don’t let her appearance fool you—Eloise is an absolute powerhouse on the track. She’s got a competitive streak and natural athleticism that leave her competitors in the dust. Her sights are set on the highest goal of all: representing Canada in the Olympics.

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Though her style might suggest she’s more into ballet than running, Eloise has worked tirelessly to shatter those assumptions. When she’s racing, she’s laser-focused, every stride calculated to bring her one step closer to her Olympic dream. Eloise is proof that strength and style can go hand in hand. She’s as unstoppable as she is elegant—a true icon in the making. 

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Unfortunately,  Eloise’s love for girly accessories doesn't exactly help her with speedy swimming. While perfect for the track, her bows and glitter create drag in the water and slow her down. She’s used to running above water, not pushing herself through it!

Herbert is the epitome of class and refinement—a true gentleman both on and off the water. With his perfectly preened feathers, an incredibly straight bow tie, and a dignified demeanour, Herbert approaches everything in life with class and poise. His fellow swans affectionately call him “Mr. Herbert” for his old-fashioned manners and impeccable style. As the head librarian of the local library, he spends his days surrounded by the classics, carefully organizing shelves and sharing his love of literature with any swan, duck, or goose willing to listen.

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Herbert didn’t enter this race for fame or glory; he’s racing purely for the honour of it. In his mind, it’s a grand opportunity to educate others on good sportsmanship and to uphold the tradition of swan racing with the utmost class. After the race, win or lose, Herbert will be the first to congratulate his opponents with a firm wing shake and a heartfelt pat on the back. He’ll probably write a book about it too!

Oswald is a ‘swan’ in a million! By day, he is an incredibly successful accountant -  crunching numbers, sorting ledgers, and ensuring everything adds up to the last feather—Oswald’s accounting skills are truly magical!

 

As soon as his day job is done, however, is when he truly begins his favourite craft. As a part-time wizard with … unique… skills, Oswald has a history of casting spells that almost work. He may be better at balancing budgets than broomsticks, but you have never met a swan with more passion for the magical arts - just make sure to stay clear when he's practising his ‘spells’ - the last time the other swans were around when Oswald was practising, they all ended up bright pink!

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Here's hoping he doesn't attempt to use his magic to win the race…

Penelope is often seen as the belle of the ball; she’s a graceful ice queen who feels most at home gliding across the frozen surface of the pond. While her fellow swans are happy to be paddling through regular water, Penelope prefers the graceful slide of ice beneath her feet. As a professional figure skater, she’s known for her breathtaking spins and jumps, dazzling anyone lucky enough to be a witness. 

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Penelope has been skating since she first stepped foot out of the nest, and she works incredibly hard to master her talent and craft. The other swans may not understand her love for water in its coldest form, but for Penelope, seeing that first freeze over Avon River every year is her calling. Her dream? To perform as Odette in the first Stratford Festival rendition of Swan Lake on Ice. With a heart as cool as the ice she loves, Penelope has a reputation for her high standards but is admired for her dedication, beauty, and undeniable talent on the rink.

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Unfortunately, swimming is a must for this year's race, despite Penelope’s numerous complaints. Will she be able to move just as gracefully in water as she can on ice?