As the Winter Olympics come to a close, let’s take a look back at a few of the best moments from this year’s games. Even if you haven’t watched closely, this year had some great moments. We may be able to give you just enough to stay in the loop about what’s happened the past couple weeks.
Arguably, this year’s break-out Olympian is Red Gerard. The 17-year-old snowboarder won America’s first gold medal and became the first Winter Games medalist born in the 2000s. This year was his first year to compete in the Olympic games. For a little Mankato connection, his cousin Charlie Gerard currently plays for MNSU, Mankato’s Men’s Hockey Team. Watch for Red on Saturday as he competes for a second gold in the Men’s Big Air final.
Adam Rippon and Gus Kenworthy have been followed closely by the media this year. Both athletes are trailblazing for being some of the first openly gay winter athletes. Gus came out in October 2015 following his silver medal at the 2014 Sochi games. Oddly enough, Adam publicly came out in October 2015 as well. Both athletes have been a voice for the community and the Olympics as well. They have both finished their runs for this season. Gus placed 12th in Slopestyle skiing and Adam took a bronze with Team USA Figure Skating.
Men’s hockey seems to be one of the biggest events during the Olympics. Women’s, on the other hand, does not get nearly as much press time. This year, however, Team USA women’s hockey seems to be killing the game. On Thursday night, the women’s team did something that hasn’t been done in nearly 20 years. Within the last few minutes of the game, in a shootout, the women beat Team Canada 3-2.
This win comes following the women’s fight for equal pay and 38 years after the men’s ‘Miracle on Ice’ win during the Lake Placid games. Did I mention that it was the first time in 20 YEARS that we have won a gold medal? Great job ladies.