Wrapping Up a Phenomenal Winter Games Experience

It’s bittersweet as the Games here in Vancouver are winding down. I had the opportunity to go to the speedskating Team Pursuit medal round. To see races won or lost by .02 seconds is incredible. The difference between gold and silver is so unbelievably minute — a second feels like an eternity out on the ice!

The race that sticks out for me was when Germany's Anni Friesinger-Postma lost her balance and slid on her stomach for the final 25 meters. She looked more like a swimmer on ice as she crossed the finish line. She started to cry thinking she lost the race but she was able to get her skate across the line (skate has to cross to finish) to beat the U.S. by .23 seconds!

My friend Derek Parra (US Speedskating Head Coach) was in total shock. He told me after the race that Friesinger-Postma did a remarkable job getting her skate across the line but he was pretty bummed about losing the race.

I also caught up with Dave and Renee Wentz again at the USA House. Dave shared his pin collecting hobby with me and talked about it on the video posted above. You have to watch!

The Olympics have been so inspiring. This was my first Winter Games and I am extremely grateful to the USOC for providing me with such great access to current and former Olympians and for hosting me and all of the Olympians at the USA House. I was able to meet so many outstanding people!

Seeing Vancouver, Listening to Olympians (Day 4)

Vancouver continues to be a great experience. Thankfully I have been able to get in my runs each day — one of the most difficult things to do when traveling. Exercise is the key for keeping up my energy on these long, busy days. I found a beautiful trail near the hotel and a great route by the water. I am really becoming a fan of Vancouver — as it is so inspiring to get out and be active here!


As for the Olympic experience, I caught up with Picabo Street (Olympic gold medalist, downhill kkiing), John Naber (Olympic gold medalist, swimming), and Kristi Yamaguchi (Olympic gold medalist, figure kkating) at a reception at the USA House (that place is really becoming my home here!!)

Picabo Street

Kristi Yamaguchi

John Naber

They were all so gracious as they thanked all of our sponsors and the people who have impacted their careers. Picabo talked about growing up in a poor family and she had fallen in love with a “rich person’s sport” and she could never have reached her potential without a lot of help.

I also walked around “the streets” to get a sense of the buzz around these Games. Lots of people (rain or shine!) trade pins, play instruments, have street performances, etc. The vibe here continues to be extremely lively and fun!

I have also been able to talk to a lot of people about USANA, as I have been well equipped with USANA beanies and gifts. I ran into a group of young men (below) who were thrilled to hear about USANA. I hope to see some of our USANA team soon!