Jordan Stolz Claims Gold in Men's 1000m Speedskating at Milan Cortina Olympics
In a stunning performance at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics, American speedskater Jordan Stolz triumphed in the men's 1000 meters on Wednesday, posting the fastest time and setting a new Olympic record. His victory is pending a re-skate for one competitor who was disrupted during an earlier heat, but if confirmed, it marks Stolz's first gold medal at this level, with aspirations for a four-medal haul at these Games.
Record-Breaking Performance at Milano Speed Skating Stadium
Skating in the penultimate pairing at the temporary Milano Speed Skating Stadium, a venue known for producing rapid times, Stolz completed the race in 1 minute and 6.28 seconds. Although he did not surpass his own world record of 1:05.37, the 21-year-old from Wisconsin shattered the previous Olympic standard of 1:07.18, which had stood since 2002—before Stolz was born. This achievement highlights the exceptional speed seen in Milan, where all four long track speedskating events have been won in record-breaking Olympic times.
Historic Milestone for Stolz and U.S. Speedskating
This medal represents a significant breakthrough for Stolz, who, as a 17-year-old at the 2022 Beijing Games, finished 14th in the 1000m and 13th in the 500m. Moreover, it is the first medal for the United States in the men's 1000m since the 2010 Vancouver Olympics, when Shani Davis—a mentor to Stolz—won his second consecutive gold and Chad Hedrick took bronze. The victory ends a streak of Dutch dominance, as Dutch men had claimed gold in this event at the past three Winter Games.
Thrilling Race with Celebrity Spectators
With speedskating legend Eric Heiden, the only athlete to win five golds at a single Olympics, watching alongside rapper Snoop Dogg in the stands, Stolz delivered a captivating performance. He initially surged ahead of Jenning de Boo of the Netherlands after one full lap, but de Boo briefly took the lead. In a dramatic finish, Stolz reclaimed the advantage at the final corner and crossed the line first, hands on his knees, before celebrating with a subtle pump of his right hand.
This gold medal not only cements Stolz's status as a rising star in speedskating but also signals a promising start to his Olympic campaign in Milan, with potential for more podium finishes ahead.
