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Posted on 2/27/2026 by Erik H. Reisner

Vermont’s Contribution to the 2026 Winter Olympics

Vermont has always been a special place: breathtaking scenery, endless outdoor recreation, no billboards, and arguably the best maple syrup in the world! But what truly sets our state apart is its people: community minded, resilient, creative… and, as it turns out, world-class athletes.

At the 2026 Winter Olympics, the United States earned 33 medals, finishing second only to Norway’s 41. Even more remarkable? Nearly 20% of those medals were won by athletes with strong ties to Vermont.

Here’s a look at the incredible competitors who helped put the Green Mountain State on the global stage.

Paula Moltzan

Now a resident of Waitsfield and sponsored by our friends at Lawson’s Finest Liquids, Paula won Bronze in the Women’s Team Combined Alpine event. A former collegiate racer at University of Vermont, she went on to join the U.S. Ski Team and continues to inspire young athletes across the state.

Ryan Cochran-Siegle

Hailing from Richmond, Vermont, and a proud UVM graduate, Ryan comes from a legendary skiing family. He captured Silver in the Men’s Super-G and quickly returned home to share his success with young skiers at his family’s Cochran’s Ski Area.

Mac Forehand

A native of Winhall and graduate of Stratton Mountain School, Mac earned Silver in Men’s Freeski Big Air. His fearless style and creativity continue Vermont’s tradition of excellence in freestyle skiing.

Jessie Diggins

Training in Stratton, Vermont since 2012, Jessie claimed Bronze in the Women’s 10K Freestyle Cross-Country event. Her dedication and work ethic reflect the strong Nordic skiing culture found throughout our state.

Ben Ogden

Raised in Landgrove and a UVM alum, Ben delivered an outstanding performance, earning two Silver medals—in the Men’s Team Sprint Free and Men’s Sprint Classic. His success highlights Vermont’s growing strength in Nordic skiing.

Mikaela Shiffrin

A graduate of Burke Mountain Academy, Mikaela once again proved why she is one of the greatest skiers of all time, winning Gold in dominant fashion in the Women’s Slalom.

A State That Builds Champions

This impressive list of athletes and accomplishments speaks volumes about Vermont’s commitment to excellence, perseverance, and community support.

We are also fortunate to have the Green Mountain Valley School (proudly sponsored by MRVRE for many years!) right here in the Mad River Valley. Known for developing high achieving student athletes and Olympic hopefuls, GMVS continues to shape the next generation of champions.

From alpine racing to freestyle and Nordic skiing, Vermont proves again and again that big dreams can grow in small places.

Here’s to our athletes, our coaches, our communities, and to the brave little state that helped carry Team USA to the podium.