How did Erin Jackson qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics?

Erin Jackson qualified for the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Games by winning the women's 1,000 meters at the U.S. Olympic trials.

What is Brittany Bowe's Olympic history?

Brittany Bowe is heading to her fourth Olympics and has won bronze medals in the 1,000 meters and team pursuit.

Did Erin Jackson have any recent injuries before the trials?

Yes, Erin Jackson tore her left hamstring just before a World Cup meet in December but competed and won at the trials.

Home / Sports / Jackson, Bowe Secure Olympic Spots in Thriller

Jackson, Bowe Secure Olympic Spots in Thriller

4 Jan

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Summary

Erin Jackson secured a 1,000m Olympic spot after defeating Brittany Bowe.
Jackson overcame a recent hamstring injury to win the race.
Both athletes grew up in Ocala, Florida, and started in inline skating.

Jackson, Bowe Secure Olympic Spots in Thriller

Erin Jackson has earned a spot in the 1,000-meter speedskating event at the upcoming Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, defeating fellow American Brittany Bowe in a decisive race at the U.S. Olympic trials. This victory allows Jackson to defend her 500-meter gold medal, a historic win from the previous Winter Games.

Jackson's performance was remarkable given she sustained a torn left hamstring just before a December World Cup event. Despite the recent injury, she completed the 1,000 meters with a time of 1 minute, 14.63 seconds, edging out Bowe by 0.38 seconds. The two athletes share a bond, having both started in inline skating in Ocala, Florida.

Brittany Bowe, who will be competing in her fourth Olympics, also secured a berth in the 1,000-meter event. This marks her final Olympic appearance as she turns 38 next month. Bowe has previously won bronze medals in the 1,000 meters at Beijing and in team pursuit at the 2018 Pyeongchang Games.