Born: 1992 (Ocala, Florida)
Erin Jackson (born September 19, 1992) is an American speed skater, roller derby player, and Olympic gold medalist. She is best known for her achievements in speed skating and her ground-breaking accomplishments as the first Black woman to win a Winter Olympic gold medal in an individual sport. Jackson’s dedication, perseverance, and natural talent have propelled her to the pinnacle of her sports career, making her a true trailblazer and an inspiration to athletes around the world.
Erin Jackson was born in Ocala, Florida to Tracy and Rita Jackson. She grew up in a supportive and loving family environment, with one brother by her side. Jackson first discovered her passion for skating at the age of eight when she tried figure skating. Little did she know that this initial encounter with the ice would shape her future and lead her to become a world-class speed skater.
Jackson’s journey continued as she attended Shores Christian Academy, Howard Middle School, and Forest High School. It was during these formative years that she honed her skills and developed her competitive spirit. After high school, Jackson pursued higher education at the University of Florida, where she studied Materials Science & Engineering and graduated with honors. Her commitment to academics and excellence extended beyond the classroom, laying the foundation for her future success in athletics.
The early years of Jackson’s career saw her dominate the world of inline speed skating. She won gold in the 500-meter race at the 2008–09 Junior World Championships and again at the 2014 Pan American Championships. Her exceptional performances earned her recognition as the United States Olympic Committee Female Athlete of the Year for Roller Sports in 2012 and 2013. Simultaneously, Jackson also found success in roller derby, competing with the Jacksonville RollerGirls of the Women’s Flat Track Derby Association (WFTDA). Her outstanding skills led to her being named MVP at the 2014 WFTDA Division 1 Playoff in Evansville, Indiana, and her team’s advancement to WFTDA Championships in 2015 and 2016.
In a remarkable career transition in 2016, Erin Jackson shifted her focus to speed skating on the ice. With only four months of experience in speed skating on ice, she defied the odds and qualified for the 2018 Winter Olympics. Coached by Renee Hildebrand, Jackson competed in the 500-meter event, finishing 24th out of 31 competitors in Pyeongchang. Although she did not achieve a podium finish, her participation in the Winter Olympics marked a significant milestone in her athletic journey and inspired countless individuals with her determination and fearlessness.
On February 13, 2022, Erin Jackson etched her name in the annals of sports history by winning the gold medal in the Women’s 500m speed skating event at the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics. In a remarkable display of skill and grit, she raced against formidable competitors in the 14th pairing and emerged victorious, triumphing over the field by 0.08 seconds with a time of 37.04 seconds. This monumental achievement made her the first Black American woman to medal in speed skating and solidified her place as a trailblazer in the world of winter sports.
Jackson’s journey to Olympic gold was not without obstacles. She had faced a setback during the U.S. Trials, slipping on the ice and jeopardizing her chances of qualifying for the Olympics. However, in an act of remarkable sportsmanship and friendship, her teammate and long-time friend Brittany Bowe, who won the event, relinquished her spot to ensure Jackson’s qualification. This selfless act of support exemplifies the camaraderie and sportsmanship that exists amongst athletes and serves as a testament to the lasting bonds formed through years of training and competition.
Erin Jackson’s groundbreaking achievements have not only reshaped the landscape of speed skating but have also had a profound impact on society. As the first Black woman to win a Winter Olympic gold medal in an individual sport, Jackson has shattered barriers and shattered glass ceilings. Her triumphs have opened doors for aspiring athletes, particularly women of color, by providing an inspiring and relatable figure to look up to. Jackson’s tenacity, dedication, and undeniable talent have carved a path for future generations to follow, promoting diversity and inclusivity in the realm of winter sports.
Through her remarkable journey from inline speed skating to roller derby and ultimately to speed skating on ice, Erin Jackson has proven her resilience and determination time and time again. Her story serves as a reminder that with hard work, passion, and unwavering belief in oneself, any obstacle can be overcome, and dreams can be realized.
Awards:
– United States Olympic Committee Female Athlete of the Year for Roller Sports (2012, 2013)