One month to go: Canada's medal chances

There's one month to go until the Vancouver Olympics.The athletes are counting down the days now as they gear up for the Games.Canada is looking strong in several events and could challenge for the top spot in the overall medal standings.There are a few sports where Canada is considered a virtual lock for a trip to the podium.First up - women's hockey.It would be a major surprise if Canada didn't make it to the gold medal game.Canada and the U-S are the two powerhouse teams in the field.It would be a stunner if they don't meet again for the gold.Canada outscored the opposition 46-2 at the 2006 Games in Turin.If Canada didn't make it to the final, it would be an upset of massive proportions if they didn't win the bronze.Canada is also very strong in long-track speedskating.So strong, in fact, that team officials think a whopping nine medals could be a possibility.Christine Nesbitt and Kristina Groves are the skaters to watch on the women's side.Nesbitt has won all four World Cup races she has entered in the one-thousand metres.The pursuit teams are also solid and Denny Morrison could reach the podium on the men's side.Freestyle skiing and the sliding sports are also good bets for podium appearances.There are too many medal hopes to mention but keep an eye on Jennifer Heil in moguls, Ashleigh McIvor in skicross and Mellisa Hollingsworth and Jon Montgomery in skeleton.