Torrance’s Own Chloe Kim Gears Up for Another Thrilling Snowboarding Season
Chloe Kim Set for Third Olympic Appearance at 2026 Milan Cortina Games
Chloe Kim, who made waves at the 2018 Winter Olympics as the youngest female snowboarder to win a medal, is preparing for her third Olympic Games at the upcoming 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics. If successful, she would achieve a historic three-peat in halfpipe snowboarding, an accomplishment that has yet to be realized in the sport.
The 25-year-old Torrance native is known for her trailblazing skills, being the only woman to successfully execute back-to-back 1080-degree spins in the Olympic halfpipe, which stands at 22 feet. Her fearlessness and competitive spirit have become defining traits of her career.
Describing her experiences in the sport, Kim stated, "Fun, painful and rewarding." She reflected on the breathtaking moments atop the mountain, remarking, "Being on top of the mountain on a bluebird day is genuinely one of the most surreal views ever."
For Kim, the trip to Milan will be a blend of professional ambition and personal enjoyment. "I want to land my run. I want to land a bunch of different runs and see how that does. But I also really want to eat pasta and pizza, and I want to go shopping," she said, showcasing her stylish red Givenchy Shark Lock boots paired with a gray blazer.
In a conversation with NBC Los Angeles before her departure, Kim expressed a relaxed attitude: "I’m kind of just here for the vibes." She conveyed her passion for snowboarding and pride in being part of Team USA, confidently adding, "I’m really good at this, so hell yeah, let’s go."
Kim is also aware of the impact she has on younger athletes. Bea Kim, an emerging talent in halfpipe snowboarding, has publicly stated that she looks up to the two-time Olympic gold medalist. Chloe Kim shared her thoughts on this influence: "I think being able to inspire the next generation and show them that anything is truly possible is pretty cool."
