Erin Jackson, Madison Chock, Evan Bates on 2026 Winter Games

Olympic gold medalists Erin Jackson, Madison Chock, and Evan Bates appeared on NBC’s TODAY show in New York City on October 29, 2024, to mark the 100-day countdown to the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina and share their preparation strategies for the upcoming Games. The veteran athletes gathered to discuss their rigorous training schedules and mental focus as they aim to qualify for Team USA and defend their standing on the world stage in Italy. The appearance served as a major promotional milestone, highlighting the shift in focus toward the Mediterranean winter games following the recent Paris Summer Olympics. During the interview, the athletes offered a rare glimpse into their personal lives and how their off-ice experiences shape their competitive drive. Speed skater Erin Jackson, who made history as the first Black woman to win an individual gold medal in speed skating, surprised viewers by reflecting on her childhood as a pageant contestant. Jackson explained how the discipline and performance aspects of pageantry provided an early foundation for her eventual transition to professional athletics, suggesting that the poise required on stage translates well to the high-pressure environment of the Olympic oval. Ice dancers Madison Chock and Evan Bates, who are the reigning world champions and Olympic gold medalists from the team event, also shared updates regarding their recent personal milestones. The couple, who have been partners on the ice for over a decade, recently celebrated their marriage, a transition they described as strengthening their symbiotic relationship as they prepare for the 2026 Games. As the countdown continues, the trio remains focused on maintaining their peak physical condition to ensure they remain the favorites to represent the United States during the Milan-Cortina competition cycle.