Erin Jackson, the world’s top-ranked speedskater in the 500 meters, won’t be participating in the event at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. The American slipped during Friday’s U.S. speedskating trials, leading to a shocking 38.24 time and third-place finish in the 500.
Brittany Bowe won the event in 37.81 and is headed to her third Olympics. Kimi Goetz, who’ll join Bowe in Beijing, finished in 37.86 to place second.
Jackson bobbled in the sprint’s second straightaway, but the officials didn’t award her a re-skate because she didn’t fall. After the race, Jackson – who’s won four of eight World Cup races this season – said she “should have sat down” to ensure a second opportunity.
“I messed up, it’s definitely on me,” Jackson said in an interview on USA Network, “but it would be nice to get that re-skate.”
Now, the only way Jackson can make the Olympics is if Bowe or Goetz relinquished their spots.
In the meantime, the 29-year-old Jackson is staying hopeful.
“All I can do is wait and see if someone declines their spot, I could go,” Jackson said. “I’m not giving up hope yet.”
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