The world’s No. 1 ranked speedskater Erin Jackson is headed to the 北京オリンピック after her friend and teammate gave up her spot after a slip during qualifying trials cost Jackson a place in the team.
Jackson failed to qualify for Beijing 2022 during Friday’s trials when she slipped and finished third — just one place shy of qualifying.
But the 29-year-old got some welcome news when the winner of the event, Brittany Bowe, gave up her spot, allowing Jackson to make the team.
Bowe, 33, will still compete in the 1,000m and 1,500m events in Beijing.
“何よりもまず, Erin has earned her right to be on this 500 meter team — she’s ranked number one in the world and no one’s more deserving than her to get an opportunity to bring Team USA home a medal,” Bowe 前記.
“After that unfortunate slip, I knew in my mind before that night was even over that if it had to come down to a decision of mine, she could have my place,” 彼女は付け加えた.
“Definitely not the way I imagined qualifying for my second Olympic team… but I guess I had to one-up my story from the 2018 トライアル. I’m incredibly grateful and humbled by the kindness of @BrittanyBowe in helping me to secure a chance at reaching my goals in #Beijing2022,” 彼女は書いた.
“She’s an amazing friend, [object Window], and mentor and this is an act I’ll never forget. You can bet I’ll be the loudest voice in the oval cheering for her in the 1000 そして 1500 来月.
“I’ve grown up with Brittany, I’ve known her, お気に入り, almost my whole life. I’ve always known what an incredible person she is, and now it’s really showing.”
In November last year, Jackson became the first Black woman to win a speed skating World Cup event and she will be looking for more success in Beijing in February.
