Gay speed skater Anastasia Bucsis won't protest in Sochi

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Bucsis is one of the few openly gay athletes competing at this month's Games in Sochi, and the host nation has made international headlines by passing strict laws banning the promotion of "non-traditional" sexual relationships.

However, Bucsis has insisted her sole focus in on winning medals, not taking a stand against Russian legislation.

"(Protesting is) a thought that's not a part of my preparation for my race, so it honestly hasn't been on the forefront of my thoughts," she told Perform.

"(I am) just thinking about what I need to do to be the best on the day. I'm not going to protest.

"I'm not going to make any fuss. I'm here to compete as a speed skater and represent my country the best way I know how and just be proud to wear the maple leaf, so I believe that lending my face and my name to certain organisations or campaigns is more than enough.

"I can only speak for myself and I think I've done enough by just coming out. I'm here to compete in the Games and I'm going to have fun and just be proud."

Bucsis added that she was not aware of any plans from other athletes to protest.

The 24-year-old believes Team Canada will enjoy success in the speed skating, and is not worried about the absence of some high-profile names of the past.

"I think that we have a very young, energetic team, and the Olympics is the Olympics, anything can happen," she added.

"It is a different team, a different energy, obviously we don't have Clara Hughes, Cindy Klassen or Kristina Groves.

"Speed skating in Canada has left such a legacy, that I'm not worried for this program at all.

"I think that it's going to be a very interesting Games and I have a lot of positive energy going into the competition."

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