Steamboat Athlete Belshaw Advances to Olympics Medal Round

23-year-old ski jumper Annika Belshaw qualifies for finals after impressive first jump.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

Annika Belshaw, a 23-year-old ski jumper from Steamboat Springs, Colorado, has advanced to the medal round of the Women's Normal Hill event at the 2026 Olympic Games. Belshaw placed first after the initial jump, clearing 93.5 meters and scoring 118.5 points. Two other American athletes, Paige Jones and Josie Johnson, also qualified for the finals, which will take place at 11:57 a.m.

Why it matters

Belshaw's performance marks a major achievement for the small ski town of Steamboat Springs, which has a rich history in winter sports. Her success helps raise the profile of the community and inspires the next generation of local athletes to pursue their Olympic dreams.

The details

In the first round of the Women's Normal Hill event, the top 30 out of 50 jumpers advanced to the medal round. Belshaw's spectacular jump put her in first place, and with 20 jumpers left, she mathematically qualified for the finals.

  • Belshaw's first jump took place on February 7, 2026.
  • The medal round finals will begin at 11:57 a.m. on the same day.

The players

Annika Belshaw

A 23-year-old ski jumper from Steamboat Springs, Colorado who has advanced to the medal round of the Women's Normal Hill event at the 2026 Olympic Games.

Paige Jones

An American ski jumper who also qualified for the medal round finals alongside Belshaw.

Josie Johnson

An American ski jumper who also qualified for the medal round finals alongside Belshaw.

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What they’re saying

“This is such an incredible moment for me and my community. I'm honored to represent Steamboat Springs on the world stage.”

— Annika Belshaw (steamboatpilot.com)

What’s next

The medal round finals for the Women's Normal Hill event will take place at 11:57 a.m. on February 7, 2026.

The takeaway

Belshaw's success highlights the strength of Steamboat Springs' winter sports program and its ability to produce world-class athletes. Her advancement to the Olympic medal round is a proud moment for the small Colorado town and will undoubtedly inspire the next generation of local ski jumpers.