Updated on 01/11/2022 10:12 am
- When it counts, US speed skater Erin Jackson slips on her parade route and misses qualifying for the Olympics.
- But her teammate Brittany Bowe cannot bear this misfortune – and makes a heartfelt decision.
With a grand gesture, ten-time speed skating world champion Brittany Bowe saved her US teammate Erin Jackson’s Olympic dream. Two days after winning the 500 meter elimination race for the Beijing Winter Games, Bowe gave up her starting place to the US record holder, who had finished third because of two falls. The US has only two slots available in China.
“Erin deserves to be on the 500m team. After her unfortunate slip, I knew immediately I had to make a decision, she can have my spot,” Bowe told NBC.
Jackson leads the 500m World Cup standings after four victories and is one of the gold favorites at this distance in Beijing. In 38.24 seconds, the 29-year-old had to give way to Bowe (37.81) and Kimi Goetz (37.85) in Milwaukee. Bowe got over 500 meters, her world record distance 1,000 meters and 1,500 meters Beijing starting places.
© Getty Images/AFP/Stacy Revere
Erin Jackson gets her gold chance in Beijing
“It’s part of the Olympic spirit to be a great comrade. It’s not just about me. It’s about Team USA. Erin has the vigor to bring home a medal, hopefully a gold one,” wished the 33- year olds.
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“I grew up with Brittany. I’ve known her all my life and I’ve always looked up to her. I’m especially grateful and humbled,” said Jackson, who became the first African American speed skater to compete for the United States in South Korea in 2018. (SID/hau)
Updated on 12/16/2021 at 11:30 am
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