Jordan Stolz Breaks Olympic Record to Claim Second Gold Medal in Speedskating
MILAN — Jordan Stolz, a 21-year-old speedskating sensation, secured his second Olympic medal at the Milan-Cortina Games by shattering the Olympic record in the men’s 500 meters. Stolz completed the race with an impressive time of 33.77 seconds on Saturday, narrowly besting the Netherlands’ Jenning de Boo, who finished just 0.11 seconds behind. Canada’s Laurent Debreuril earned the bronze with a time of 34.26 seconds, which had stood as the Olympic record for three pairs until Stolz’s stellar performance at Milano Speed Skating Stadium.
Stolz is undertaking a challenging four-event program at the Games, having already claimed gold in the 1,000 meters earlier this week. He is set to compete in the 1,500 meters and the team pursuit as well. This victory marks a significant milestone, as Stolz becomes the first American man to win the 500 meters at the Olympics since Joey Cheek in 2006, and the first to achieve gold in both the 500 and 1,000 meters at the same Games since Eric Heiden in 1980.
Following his win, Stolz joyfully paraded around the arena, brandishing the U.S. flag as fans chanted "U-S-A!" Even Dutch supporters, adorned in vibrant orange, applauded in respect as Stolz celebrated his remarkable achievement.
Stolz’s performance continues to captivate spectators and underscores a new era in U.S. speed skating, with implications for the forthcoming events in the ongoing Games.
