Story perspectives

Colorado Athletes Shine as Milan-Cortina Olympics Approach

2/4/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics begin February 6, 2026, featuring Colorado athletes Birk Irving and Svea Irving in halfpipe.
The U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team includes 97 athletes, 27 from Colorado—the most from any state.
New events include dual moguls, where skiers race head-to-head, and ski mountaineering, debuting with Cam Smith.
Lily Dhawornvej, 16, competes in snowboarding slopestyle, as U.S. snowboarder Alex Ferreira aims for a double-cork 1800 in the halfpipe.

History

Historical Context

The 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, held from February 8 to 24, featured 2,399 athletes from 78 nations and marked the U.S.'s eighth time hosting the Games. The U.S. team secured 34 medals, including 10 golds, while Norway led the medal count. The event's success and infrastructure legacy continue to influence winter sports in the U.S., with Salt Lake City set to host again in 2034.

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Story summary

The Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics begin February 6, 2026, featuring Colorado athletes Birk Irving and Svea Irving in halfpipe.
The U.S. Ski and Snowboard Team includes 97 athletes, 27 from Colorado—the most from any state.
New events include dual moguls, where skiers race head-to-head, and ski mountaineering, debuting with Cam Smith.
Lily Dhawornvej, 16, competes in snowboarding slopestyle, as U.S. snowboarder Alex Ferreira aims for a double-cork 1800 in the halfpipe.

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