The Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Games have already delivered a jaw-dropping moment for U.S. speedskater Greta Myers! While she was preparing for her scheduled races, the young American athlete received an unexpected call: she was making her Olympic debut in the 3,000 meters – with only three hours’ notice!
This incredible, whirlwind opportunity opened up when Czechia’s legendary Martina Sablikova, a gold medalist from the 2010 Vancouver Games, made the incredibly difficult decision to withdraw from the race. Sablikova expressed feeling “helpless” and “disappointed,” calling it the “hardest sporting decision of her life.” With Sablikova out, Myers, who held the first alternate quota spot, was suddenly in the spotlight.
Imagine the shock and excitement! Myers quickly shared her incredible news on social media, exclaiming, “HEY! I’ll be racing the 3k today!!!! Quite unexpected but I’m so incredibly grateful to have the opportunity to skate and give it my very best!! Let’s go!!!!!”
After crossing the finish line in 20th place, Greta reflected on the “really crazy” turn of events. She admitted that when she first heard the news, she had just fallen during a high-speed practice, so she was “a little bit shaken up and frustrated.” But once she processed the magnitude of her Olympic debut, pure emotion took over. “When I was walking back to the locker room, I started tearing up a little… I’ve just been trying to take it all in.”
Despite the rushed preparation, Myers gave her absolute best. This surprise 3k was just a thrilling prelude; her body is still training through for her main events. She’s set to compete in the women’s 1,500, women’s 5,000, and the women’s Mass Start, with a team pursuit race also on the horizon. “I can’t wait to show you all what I have,” she shared.
What an unforgettable, last-minute start to her Olympic journey! We’ll be eagerly watching to see what Greta Myers accomplishes next on the ice.
Source: https://www.cbsnews.com/news/us-speedskater-greta-myers-3000-meters-olympics/
