Wisconsin's Winter Olympics Legends

From speed skating to curling, the Badger State has produced some of the greatest Winter Olympians in history.

Published on Feb. 17, 2026

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Wisconsin has a rich history of producing standout Winter Olympians, from speed skating legends like Eric Heiden and Bonnie Blair to curling star Chris Plys. These homegrown athletes have shattered records and brought home gold medals, cementing Wisconsin's status as a winter sports powerhouse.

Why it matters

Wisconsin's success at the Winter Olympics showcases the state's commitment to winter sports and its ability to cultivate world-class talent. These athletes have inspired generations of Wisconsinites and put the state on the global stage, highlighting the importance of local sports programs and facilities in developing Olympic champions.

The details

Some of Wisconsin's most celebrated Winter Olympians include speed skaters Eric Heiden, who won five gold medals in 1980, and Bonnie Blair, the first American woman to win five gold medals. Hockey player Mark Johnson scored two goals in the iconic 'Miracle on Ice' game at the 1980 Olympics, while Dan Jansen overcame personal tragedy to win gold in 1994. Curler Chris Plys, a Madison native, helped the U.S. men's team capture gold in 2018.

  • Eric Heiden won five gold medals at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics.
  • Bonnie Blair won three consecutive gold medals in the 500m speed skating event from 1988 to 1994.
  • Mark Johnson scored two goals in the 'Miracle on Ice' game at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics.
  • Dan Jansen won gold in the 1000m speed skating event at the 1994 Lillehammer Olympics.
  • Chris Plys helped the U.S. men's curling team win gold at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics.

The players

Eric Heiden

A speed skater from Madison, Wisconsin, who won five gold medals at the 1980 Lake Placid Olympics, setting Olympic records in all five events he competed in.

Bonnie Blair

A speed skater born in New York but raised in the West Allis area of Wisconsin, she became the first American woman to win five gold medals at the Winter Olympics.

Mark Johnson

A hockey player born and raised in Madison, Wisconsin, who played a key role on the 1980 'Miracle on Ice' U.S. Olympic hockey team.

Dan Jansen

A speed skater from West Allis, Wisconsin, who overcame personal tragedy to win gold in the 1000m event at the 1994 Lillehammer Olympics.

Chris Plys

A curler from Madison, Wisconsin, who was part of the U.S. men's curling team that won gold at the 2018 PyeongChang Olympics.

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What they’re saying

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

Wisconsin's rich history of producing Winter Olympic champions showcases the state's commitment to winter sports and its ability to cultivate world-class talent. These athletes have inspired generations of Wisconsinites and put the state on the global stage, highlighting the importance of local sports programs and facilities in developing Olympic legends.