American Speed Skating’s Rising Stars: A Recent Era of Olympic Hope
The U.S. Is poised for a potential resurgence in speed skating, with athletes like Jordan Stolz and Kristen Santos-Griswold leading the charge at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan. Building on a legacy of Olympic heroes – Eric Heiden, Bonnie Blair, and Apolo Ohno – these skaters are capturing attention and inspiring a new generation.
Jordan Stolz: The Next American Phenom
At 21, Jordan Stolz of Kewaskum, Wisconsin, has quickly grow a dominant force in long track speed skating. Despite not medaling at the 2022 Beijing Olympics, Stolz has since amassed ten World Championship medals, including three gold medals in February 2024. He’s even set a world record in the men’s 1000 meters. Some are already comparing him to Eric Heiden, with Heiden himself calling Stolz “the best I’ve ever seen.” Stolz is competing in the Men’s 1000m (February 11), Men’s 500m (February 14), Men’s 1500m (February 19), and Men’s Mass Start (February 21).
Kristen Santos-Griswold: Redemption and Resilience
Kristen Santos-Griswold, representing Fairfield, Connecticut, embodies perseverance. After a heartbreaking crash in the 2022 Beijing Olympics during the 1000m final, where she finished fourth, Santos-Griswold contemplated retirement. She overcame this setback to become a world champion and earn the Crystal Globe for consistent excellence. She’s approaching the Milan Games with a renewed focus on giving her all in every race. Santos-Griswold will compete in the Short Track Mixed Team Relay (February 10), Short Track Women’s 500m (February 12), and Short Track Women’s 3000m Relay (February 18).
A Friendship Forged in Speed: Erin Jackson and Brittany Bowe
The bond between Erin Jackson and Brittany Bowe exemplifies sportsmanship and teamwork. At the 2022 Beijing Olympics, Bowe selflessly gave up her spot in the 500m event so Jackson could compete, ultimately leading to Jackson winning gold – the first American woman to do so since Bonnie Blair. Both athletes, originally inline skaters from Ocala, Florida, are now flag bearers for the U.S. Team. Jackson will race in the Women’s 1000m (February 9) and Women’s 500m (February 15), while Bowe will compete in the Women’s 1000m (February 9), Women’s 500m (February 15), and Women’s 1500m (February 20).
The History and Evolution of Speed Skating
Speed skating has been a cornerstone of the Winter Olympics since the inaugural Games in Chamonix, France, in 1924. Long track speed skating involves individual races against the clock on a 400m oval, while short track, added in 1992, features multiple skaters racing simultaneously on a smaller 111.12-meter oval. Short track is known for its more dynamic and often chaotic racing style.
Looking Ahead: The Future of American Speed Skating
The success of these athletes signals a promising future for American speed skating. The sport’s growing visibility, coupled with the dedication of these athletes, could inspire a new wave of participation and investment. The Milan Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics provide a crucial platform to showcase the sport and its stars to a global audience.
FAQ
Q: How long has speed skating been an Olympic sport?
A: Since the first Winter Olympics in 1924.
Q: What is the difference between long track and short track speed skating?
A: Long track is raced individually against the clock on a 400m oval, while short track involves multiple skaters racing simultaneously on a smaller oval.
Q: Who are some of the most decorated American speed skaters?
A: Eric Heiden, Bonnie Blair, and Apolo Ohno are among the most celebrated American speed skating Olympians.
Q: Where is Jordan Stolz from?
A: Jordan Stolz is from Kewaskum, Wisconsin.
Did you grasp? Jordan Stolz was inspired to take up speed skating after watching the 2010 Winter Olympics.
Explore more about the 2026 Winter Olympics and the athletes competing here.
