Olympic Stories
If you look forward to Winter Olympics years as much as I do, you have already watched Cool Runnings several times in anticipation. Here are some additional inspiring stories from current and past Olympians that can keep your spirits high long after the final ski jump or luge has taken off this year.
-By Joanna Binney
Rise by Lindsey Vonn, 2023
The current most decorated downhill skier puts out a fascinating and self-reflective memoir that highlights her low moments with as much emphasis as the highs. Vonn details her struggles with confidence and self-advocacy that are not often apparent from the sidelines, and chronicles her years of training in a sport she continues to dominate.
The Hard Parts by Oksana Masters, 2023
Details the extreme odds stacked against one of the world’s now most-decorated Paralympians, following her adoption out of a Ukrainian orphanage through a long journey to medical stability, to finally uncover unbelievable athletic ability in cross-country skiing and biathlon. Her story reframes strength and perseverance.
The Boys of Winter by Wayne Coffey, 2005
Chronicles the rise of the team that brought us the “Miracle on Ice” in 1980, then traces the lasting impact of that experience through the lives of several coaches and players.
Beautiful on the Outside by Adam Rippon, 2019
2018 medalist Adam Rippon gives an honest and very entertaining look into the sacrifices and risks it takes to push to the top of a sport that demands equal parts strength and aesthetics.
