Alaskans Shine at Winter Olympics with Historic Ski Race, Hockey Gold, and Homemade Knitwear

Alaska athletes make their mark at the 2026 Winter Games in Italy

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Three Alaskan women made history by competing in the first-ever 50-kilometer Olympic cross-country ski race, while other Alaskan athletes brought home gold and silver medals in hockey and biathlon. The Olympics also showcased Alaska's vibrant winter sports culture, with athletes like Kendall Kramer and Gus Schumacher representing the state on the world stage.

Why it matters

The inclusion of the women's 50K ski race at the Olympics is a landmark moment for gender equality in winter sports. Alaska's strong representation on the U.S. Olympic team highlights the state's deep talent pool and passion for outdoor pursuits. The success of these athletes also inspires the next generation of Alaskan winter sports stars.

The details

In the historic women's 50K race, four American skiers finished in the top 30, including Alaskans Rosie Brennan (15th), Hailey Swirbul (19th), and Kendall Kramer (26th). Elsewhere, Alaskan Jeremy Swayman won gold with the U.S. men's hockey team, while Gus Schumacher took silver in cross-country skiing. Biathlete Maxime Germain even showcased his homemade knitwear skills during the Olympics.

  • The women's 50K race took place on the final day of the 2026 Winter Olympics in Val di Fiemme, Italy.
  • The U.S. men's hockey team won gold on February 22, 2026.
  • Gus Schumacher won his silver medal on February 18, 2026.

The players

Kendall Kramer

An Olympic rookie from Fairbanks, Alaska who competed in two events at the 2026 Winter Games.

Gus Schumacher

An Anchorage, Alaska native who won a silver medal in cross-country skiing and was one of only two men to compete in all six cross-country events at the Olympics.

Jeremy Swayman

An Alaskan hockey player who won a gold medal as part of the U.S. men's hockey team.

Maxime Germain

An Alaskan biathlete who showcased his homemade knitwear skills during the Olympics.

Tage Thompson

An Alaskan-raised hockey player who won gold with the U.S. men's hockey team.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“The #Olympics called for a post with extra content … 3 weeks I could have never predicted would be so great! Even with the hype around it, the experience still surprised me with joy. Getting to participate in 2 events, my favorite one and an iconic first edition of the women's 50k was a blessing.”

— Kendall Kramer, Olympic Rookie (Instagram)

“Second best guy to compete in all 6 cross country ski races this year? Might be a fairly distant second but I'm proud of everything I've done to get here ready for it all. I'm so grateful for all the support I've gotten in that journey, everyone makes it (so) fun and worthwhile.”

— Gus Schumacher (Social Media)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.