Apolo Ohno became a household name during the 2002 Olympics. Chad Hedrick is set to be a household name for the 2006 Turin Olympics. Will he be the next Eric Heiden? (In case you don’t know who Eric Heiden is he set a record 26 years ago by winning five gold medals in one Olympics. Incidentally, Heiden will be on hand if his record is tied, as he is one of the team doctors.)
All six U.S. long track medalists from the 2002 Olympics are set to compete in Turin, many of them expected to medal again. With Hedrick competing in long track, that’s one more opportunity for medals.
Shani Davis is another name to watch for. Until Chad Hedrick came on the scene, he was the one to beat. Now, their rivalry will be an exciting one to watch, and one that may bring gold and silver finishes for the U.S. in several of the events.
And, yes, Apolo will be back skating for gold, as well.
On the women’s side, Jennifer Rodriguez and Chris Witty are veterans who already have won Olympic medals. Each qualified in three events – 500, 1,000 and 1,500. Look for them to be strong contenders for medals.
