Jordan Stolz Overcomes Fall to Qualify at U.S. Olympic Team Trials

At the U.S. Olympic Team Trials, speed skater Jordan Stolz faced a challenging moment when he fell just steps into his 1,000-meter race. Despite this setback, Stolz demonstrated remarkable resilience and finished third, securing his spot for the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina.

Jordan Stolz’s Remarkable Recovery

The incident occurred at the Pettit National Ice Center in Milwaukee. Stolz stumbled forward when his toe caught the ice, known as a “toe pick.” Even though he fell onto the pristine surface, he quickly regained his focus and completed the distance in a time of 1:07.968.

Pre-Qualified and Proud

Due to his ranking as the No. 1 skater globally, Stolz had already pre-qualified for the Olympics. His third-place finish at the Trials was merely a formality to confirm his participation.

Illness and Determination

• Stolz battled a cold and dehydration leading up to the race.
• He attributed his fall to feeling unwell rather than ice conditions.
• The event drew a crowd of 1,700, adding to the pressure.

Reflecting on the fall, Stolz stated, “I was just feeling a little dehydrated going in… so I felt weird in my legs.” His quick recovery showcased his competitive spirit. Stolz was pleased with his performance despite the circumstances.

Upcoming Challenges

Looking ahead, Stolz is set to compete in more races, including the 500-meter and 1,500-meter events scheduled for January 4th. He indicated that he would evaluate his condition before these races.

Stolz’s Record and Achievements

Stolz holds prestigious records, including a world record time of 1:05.37 in the 1,000 meters set in January 2024. He also has the Pettit track record of 1:06.16 and has won multiple World Championships in various distances.

Looking Forward to the Olympics

As Stolz approaches the Olympics, he remains focused on enhancing his performance. Despite recent illnesses, his commitment to training and competition is unwavering. He continues to bring a competitive edge, making him a vital contender for the upcoming Winter Games.