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Brittany Bowe
Photo:
SCS / Soenar Chamid / imago images / AFLOSPORT
Ten-time speed skating world champion Brittany Bowe saved the Olympic dream of her US teammate Erin Jackson with a grand gesture.
Two days after winning the 500-meter elimination race for the Beijing Winter Games, Bowe gave up her starting place to the US record holder, who had finished third because of two stumbling blocks.
The USA has only two starting places available in China.
“Erin deserves to be on the 500 meter team.
After her unfortunate slip, I knew immediately that I had to make a decision, she can have my place, "Bowe (33) told NBC.
Jackson, 29, leads the 500-meter World Cup after four wins and is one of the gold favorites on this route.
In 38.24 seconds she had to give way in Milwaukee Bowe (37.81) and Kimi Goetz (37.85).
Bowe had secured over 500 meters, her world record distance 1000 meters and over 1500 meters Beijing starting positions.
“It's part of the Olympic spirit to be a great comrade.
It's not just about me.
It's about Team USA.
Erin has the zest to bring home a medal, a gold one hopefully, ”Bowe said.
“I grew up with Brittany.
I've known her all my life and I've always looked up to her.
I am particularly grateful and humble, ”said Jackson, who in 2018 became the first African-American woman to speed skate for the United States in South Korea.
ara / sid