UPDATE: In a stunning display of speed, Jordan Stolz has made history at the Milan Cortina Games by securing his second Olympic gold medal in the 500 meters today, February 17, 2024. Stolz’s victory follows his triumph in the 1,000 meters, making him only the second man, alongside legend Eric Heiden, to achieve the 500-1,000 double at a single Olympics.
The 21-year-old speedskater from Wisconsin set a new Olympic record with a blistering time of 33.77 seconds, solidifying his status as a top contender for the Games. “It’s hard to say it’s like a 50 percent chance to get the other two,” Stolz commented, acknowledging the pressure of his upcoming races.
Stolz’s remarkable performance came as he faced off against Jenning De Boo from the Netherlands, who took silver with a time of 33.88 seconds. The two athletes raced head-to-head, pushing each other to their limits in a thrilling showdown. “We push each other. It makes it more fun for the viewers,” Stolz shared after the race.
With Heiden cheering from the stands, Stolz finished with his signature speed, even recovering from a deficit early in the race. The bronze medal was claimed by Canada’s Laurent Dubreuil, who clocked in at 34.26 seconds. Stolz now eyes two more races: the 1,500 meters on February 20 and the mass start on February 21.
Stolz’s father, Dirk, revealed that Jordan slept with his first gold medal on his pillow the night after winning the 1,000 meters. “You see some athletes crumble under pressure, but I don’t see that with Jordan,” he said, emphasizing his son’s mental toughness.
Reflecting on his achievements, Stolz is flattered by comparisons to Heiden, who famously swept all five events at the 1980 Lake Placid Games. However, Stolz remains focused on his own path, knowing that each race presents its own challenges. “I still have to do the right things,” he stated.
As he prepares for his next events, Stolz’s journey continues to captivate fans worldwide. With his eyes set on potentially winning four gold medals, he stands on the brink of Olympic history. What happens next is critical as he aims to follow in the footsteps of one of speedskating’s greatest legends.
Fans are eagerly awaiting his next performance, which promises to be just as exhilarating as today’s historic race.
