It wasn’t easy. In fact, it almost slipped away again.

The final round was vintage Augusta drama. McIlroy entered Sunday in a tie for the lead, but nerves showed early with a double bogey on the first hole. He steadied himself and clawed back into rhythm with a string of birdies, including a crucial one at the 15th. But a second double bogey on the 13th nearly unraveled everything. That setback, combined with a scorching round from Justin Rose, meant McIlroy had to birdie the 17th just to keep pace. A bogey on the 18th dropped him to 11-under, tying Rose and forcing a playoff.

For many watching, it felt like a cruel repeat of past Augusta heartbreaks. McIlroy’s history at the Masters is littered with collapses, most famously in 2011 when he blew a four-shot lead in the final round. Year after year, he returned with renewed hope, only to fall just short. In recent years, the pressure seemed to mount with each missed opportunity. A career Grand Slam was no longer just a goal; it became a narrative, a burden.

But this year, McIlroy approached the Masters with a different energy. He spoke less in press conferences and played more freely throughout the tournament. His swing looked fluid. His putting was consistent. Most importantly, he seemed mentally composed, even when the round threatened to spiral.

In the playoff, McIlroy drew on every bit of that poise. Both players returned to the 18th tee. McIlroy hit a clean drive, then stuck his approach within ten feet of the hole. Rose’s second shot landed further out, and his birdie attempt slipped past the cup. McIlroy, with a chance to win the tournament outright, drained the putt with quiet confidence. No roar, no jump, just a subtle fist pump and a long exhale.

“I didn’t make it easy today. I certainly didn’t make it easy,” McIlroy admitted to reporters according to The Masters website. “I was nervous. It was one of the toughest days I’ve ever had on the golf course.” 

Indeed, McIlroy’s win at Augusta wasn’t just a triumph of talent. It was a triumph of resilience. Since his last major win in 2014, he has faced a rotating cast of younger challengers, changes in the golf landscape and increasing scrutiny. But through it all, he remained a central figure in the game, not only as a competitor but also as a voice of reason and leadership during golf’s turbulent split between tours.

This Masters felt like the closing of a chapter. The 35-year-old didn’t just win a tournament; he completed a journey. He proved that persistence still has a place in modern sport, that heartbreak can be rewritten.

Behind McIlroy, a leaderboard packed with stars added to the tension. Patrick Reed made a run, but faltered late. Scottie Scheffler couldn’t generate enough momentum. Other contenders faded as Augusta’s back nine claimed its usual toll. In the end, it was two veterans, McIlroy and Rose, who stood atop the field. And it was McIlroy who had the final say.

This win alters the trajectory of his legacy. Without a Masters, McIlroy was a generational talent with an asterisk. With it, he’s a confirmed legend. The green jacket completes the set. More than that, it frees him from the weight of expectation that’s followed him every April since his early 20s.

Contact the editors responsible for this story: Julee Sharma, Finley Tipton, Katie McCabe

The Wellesley Volleyball team, led by Head Coach Dorothy Webb, entered the tournament as the No. 6 seed. The team faced a formidable opponent in No. 3 Smith College and, despite their efforts, fell 3-1. Wellesley was led by Kate Giang’s ’27 15 kills, eight digs and three aces. First-year Else Kunze-Hoeg ’28 hit .304 and finished with 11 kills, 18 assists and eight digs. Evelyn Hill ’27 added eight kills. Kaija Kunze-Hoeg ’26 led all players with 21 digs. Webb reflected at the beginning season that, “the Wellesley Volleyball team is very young and athletic, with depth at every position. We will be especially excited to follow/watch this year!” This year’s tournament bid is part of a storied legacy in NEWMAC, and the team looks to build on their achievements as they aim even higher next season.

This season, the Wellesley College Field Hockey team once again proved its mettle, advancing to the semifinals of the NEWMAC tournament after a thrilling 4-1 first-round victory over Salve Regina. Katie Golla ’27 opened the scoring early, followed by goals from Claudia Summers ’28 and Sara Maniscalco ’25, who capitalized on a penalty corner. Alex Butulis ’27 added a fourth goal in the third quarter, sealing the win. The Blue’s defense also shone, holding Salve Regina to just four shots compared to Wellesley’s 26. The Blue last played in the NEWMAC semifinals in 2021. But, the No. 4 seed Wellesley College field hockey fell at No. 1 seed Babson College, 5-0, on Nov. 7 at MacDowell Field. The Blue ends the season with a 10-10 record after making a fifth straight postseason appearance with two trips to the semifinals in that span. 

For the Blue, making it to the NEWMAC tournament was a celebration of more than just athletic skill; it represented the powerful sense of community and pride within Wellesley’s sports culture. Throughout the season, fans filled the stands to cheer on both teams, with alums, students and faculty showing their support at every game. 

As both the volleyball and field hockey teams look to the future, their postseason achievements this year serve as a foundation. With a strong core of returning players and a renewed drive, Wellesley is poised for continued success in NEWMAC and beyond.

Contact the editors responsible for this story: Julee Sharma, Katie McCabe

Let’s dive into the quarterbacks, aka the brain of your fantasy team. Picture that friend who’s always actually planning the group trips, finding the best deals and somehow never forgets the essentials like sunscreen and chargers. Your quarterback needs to be that person. Instead of going for Patrick Mahomes (because let’s face it, someone already asked him), why not consider Joe Burrow of the Cincinnati Bengals? Burrow is like that friend who quietly crushes everything — and who doesn’t love them some Joe Shiesty. He’s got a laser arm, a calm demeanor, and a stacked offense that makes him a great pick. Then there’s Josh Allen from the Buffalo Bills, who’s basically the human equivalent of a Swiss Army knife. He can pass, he can run, and he’s probably the guy you call when your remote is acting up. He’s reliable, versatile, and is also dating Hallie Steinfeld (plus five points in my eyes). And don’t forget Jalen Hurts from the Eagles, who’s like the overachiever in your study group who somehow manages to be chill and get everything done. He’s got the arm, the legs and a solid team, making him a top pick for your fantasy squad.

Next up are the running backs, the workhorses of your fantasy lineup. Think of them as that one friend who’s always prepared for anything, or ready to catch anything. Christian McCaffrey of the San Francisco 49ers is the fantasy football equivalent of finding out your final exam is an open book. If he’s on the field, he’s racking up points faster than you can say “end zone.” Then there’s Derrick Henry who is an Alabama alum and part of the Tennessee Titans, who’s like the freight train of your fantasy team. Once he gets going, there’s no stopping him. Imagine a snowball rolling down a hill, picking up speed and size — yeah, that’s Derrick Henry in the fourth quarter. But here’s a pro tip: draft him before anyone else does because he is a hot commodity. Finally, we have Bijan Robinson from the Atlanta Falcons. Robinson was the No. 8 pick in the 2023 draft and broke the Falcons rookie record for yards from scrimmage last year. He’s got the skills to make a huge impact right out of the gate, so don’t be shy about taking a chance on him.

Now, let’s talk about wide receivers — these are your big playmakers. They’re like that friend who always knows the best spots in the library. First up is Justin Jefferson of the Minnesota Vikings. Jefferson is the friend who makes everything look effortless — whether it’s nailing a presentation or acing a test, he’s just naturally good at everything. Draft him, sit back and watch as the points roll in. Then there’s Ja’Marr Chase from the Cincinnati Bengals, with over 1,000 receiving yards in each of his first two seasons and 22 touchdowns in just 29 games. Expect some big plays and highlight-reel moments with this guy on your roster. Finally, we have Amon-Ra St. Brown from the Detroit Lions who is the steady anchor of your team — the one who consistently delivers, even if he doesn’t always get the spotlight. With 196 receptions and nearly 2,000 receiving yards in his first two seasons, he’s the reliable go-to who keeps your fantasy lineup on track week after week. He might not be the flashiest pick, but he’s reliable and could surprise everyone.

And let’s not forget the tight ends — the hidden gems of your fantasy lineup. Picking the right tight end is like finding 20 dollars in your coat pocket from last winter — it doesn’t happen often, but when it does, it’s the best thing to ever happen to you. Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs is the gold standard here, like getting upgraded to first class on a flight you thought was going to be a middle seat in coach. He’s worth every penny and you get Taylor Swift. Then there’s Mark Andrews of the Baltimore Ravens, who has averaged over 800 receiving yards and seven touchdowns per season since 2019. He’s a consistent top-tier tight end, making him a safe bet for your lineup, especially when other options may be less reliable. On the other hand, Darren Waller of the New York Giants could be the comeback story of the year. Despite an injury-riddled 2022 season, he posted back-to-back seasons with over 1,100 receiving yards in 2019 and 2020. With his potential to return to elite form, he offers high upside and reward, but also carries some risk — so draft accordingly.

Of course, every fantasy team needs a few sleeper picks, those under-the-radar players who can turn your season around like that hole-in-the-wall restaurant only the locals know about. Chris Olave of the New Orleans Saints could be your secret weapon. After an impressive rookie season with over 1,000 receiving yards and four touchdowns, he’s poised for an even bigger year, especially with improved quarterback play. James Cook from the Buffalo Bills is another player to watch. With 5.7 yards per carry in his rookie season, he’s shown flashes of brilliance and could become the go-to guy in Buffalo’s backfield, offering plenty of upside. And don’t forget Jordan Addison from the Minnesota Vikings. With Adam Thielen out of the picture, Addison has a clear path to significant targets alongside Justin Jefferson. As a standout at USC with over 1,000 receiving yards in his final season, Addison could quickly become a key player in Minnesota’s offense.

At the end of the day, fantasy football is supposed to be fun, so don’t stress too much — unless there is punishment for last place. Draft smart, trust your gut and remember: win or lose, at least you can be one of those people who participate in fantasy football And who knows? You might even start to enjoy the games that don’t involve a halftime show.

Contact the editors responsible for this article: Julee Sharma (js115@wellesley.edu) and Finley Tipton (ft101@wellesley.edu)

Not to be discouraged by the trampoline fiasco, the NBA has now pivoted to a more grounded approach. The new proposal to lower hoops to eight feet is seen as the next best step to bring equality to the court. It’s a chance for those who’ve been rebounding from the sidelines to finally shoot their shot.

In the shadow of the legendary Celtics, a new band of heroes is emerging. They’re not your typical basketball giants; they’re the everyday Davids ready to take on the Goliaths of the NBA. With the prospect of 8-foot hoops, these plucky players are dreaming big. They’re the office workers, the baristas, the students – all united by a love for the game and a height that’s been a hurdle, until now.

The city is abuzz with debates. Coffee shops are filled with chatter, not about the latest brew, but about the potential for a new league where the short become mighty. Radio shows are inundated with calls, some laughing at the idea, others passionately defending it. The concept has even sparked a series of viral memes, with Boston’s “Short Kings” photoshopped onto NBA posters, their heads barely reaching the net.

The “Short King League” is no longer a mere concept; it’s becoming a movement. A movement that celebrates diversity in athleticism, that recognizes the heart and hustle of the underrepresented, and that challenges the status quo of professional sports. It’s a movement that asks, “Why not?” instead of saying, “That’s impossible.”

As the NBA deliberates, the city of Boston becomes a beacon of hope for every “short king” and “queen” who has ever been told they’re too small to play. It’s a narrative that transcends basketball, touching on deeper societal themes of inclusivity and the redefinition of what it means to be an athlete.

Picture this: a league where shorter players finally get to play above the rim, where dunks aren’t reserved solely for the skyscraping giants, and where every layup feels like a triumphant conquest. It’s the stuff dreams are made of for the city’s underdogs, who’ve long felt sidelined by their towering counterparts.

But the proposal isn’t without its skeptics. Critics wonder if the move would revolutionize the game or turn basketball into a sideshow circus. Would it fundamentally alter the sport’s essence, or simply level the playing field for those often overlooked due to their stature? The debate rages on, echoing through the streets of Boston like a bounce pass in the Garden.

While the NBA remains tight-lipped about any concrete plans, the buzz around this audacious proposal continues to crescendo. Will we soon see shorter hoops gracing NBA courts, or will the idea be swatted away like a poorly timed shot? For now, Boston’s short kings are hitting the courts with renewed vigor, honing their hops and perfecting their jump shots, ready to seize their moment – whether the hoop is eight feet or eighty.

Basketball

The Blue had a mixed start to the NEWMAC season, losing to Emerson by two points on Jan. 17, but bouncing back with a win over Coast Guard on Jan. 27. First-year forward Trinity Barrow was named the NEWBA Rookie of the Week and the NEWMAC Women’s Basketball Defensive Athlete of the Week for her stellar performance against Coast Guard, where she scored 18 points, grabbed 12 rebounds, and blocked four shots. They lost to MIT 73-43 on Jan. 24, had a big senior day win against Salve Regina on Feb. 3, and played Wheaton on Feb. 7 at home.

Fencing

Blue fencing defeated Division I No. 10 Northwestern at the Tufts Invitational on Jan. 14, with a score of 14-13. The Blue also beat Hunter, New York U., Haverford and Stevens at the same event. Wellesley competed at the Eric Sollee Invitational at Brandeis on Jan. 27, where they remained undefeated after facing NJIT, Boston College, Brown and MIT. There was also a dual meet against Brandeis on Jan. 30 which they lost 14-13.

Track & Field

The Blue finished seventh out of 14 teams at the Reggie Poyau Memorial Invitational on Jan. 13, where senior Emily Brydges won the 3000m race with a time of 10:34.76. They also participated in the Branwen Smith-King Invitational at Tufts on Jan. 20 and placed eighth out of 13 teams. Next was the Tufts Cupid Challenge on Feb. 3 where Sophomore Ella Whinney finished fourth in the Indoor Mile with a time of 5:17.57. Up next, Wellesley competes at Boston University’s David Hemery Valentine Invitational on Feb. 9.

Swimming & Diving

Swive competed at the Sisters Invitational at Mount Holyoke on Jan. 20 and 21, where they faced Mount Holyoke, Simmons and Smith. Wellesley finished at the top of the team standings with 1229 points and sophomore Kavita Sekhon was named the NEWMAC Women’s Swimming & Diving Swimmer of the Week for the week ending Jan. 21, 2024. The Blue also had a tri-meet against Coast Guard and Springfield on Jan. 26 and 27 which they lost and won, respectively. The team was recognized as a Fall Scholar All-America Team on Monday by the College Swimming and Diving Coaches Association of America (CSCAA). This is the ninth year in a row the team has received the honor.

Go Blue!

1. Pomodoro Prowess:

Imagine a world where procrastination takes a back seat, and focus becomes your trusty co-pilot. Enter the Pomodoro Technique, where students swear by the power of a tomato-shaped kitchen timer to transform their study sessions. 25 minutes of laser-like concentration followed by a 5-minute break – it’s the perfect recipe for productivity. The short breaks act as a mental palate cleanser, preventing burnout and maintaining overall cognitive performance throughout the study session. The origins of the Pomodoro Technique can be traced back to the humble tomato-shaped kitchen timer, known as a “Pomodoro” in Italian. Created by Francesco Cirillo in the late 1980s, the technique has since grown into a productivity phenomenon. Critics may argue it’s more tomato hype than science, but believers insist it’s the secret sauce for acing finals.

2. Chunk Time

The distant cousin of the Pomodoro Technique is the chunking technique which is a memorization method that begins with distilling large pieces of information into smaller pieces or chunks but without timing the process. You might do this by identifying similarities between key concepts to create categories, associating information with personal experiences, developing visual cues or creating acronyms. By using the chunking technique, you can create a system that’s easy for you to remember and scan when you want to recall a specific detail or piece of information.

3. Mnemonic Marvels:

For those who think acronyms are reserved for tech lingo and not exam preparation, think again. Mnemonics are the unsung heroes of memorization, turning mundane lists of information into catchy phrases and rhymes. My favorite throwback from 7th grade is “King Henry Died Drinking Chocolate Milk,” and now I will forever know which way to move a decimal. Mnemonics make the learning process as unforgettable as your favorite song.

4. Mind Mapping Madness:

For the visually inclined, mind mapping is the Picasso of study techniques. Picture this: a radiant web of interconnected ideas, colors and doodles that turns your notes into a work of art. Maybe your notes already look like they are already filled with doodles or maybe you are just taking Organic Chemistry (RIP). It’s not just about looking fancy — it’s about organizing information in a way that taps into your brain’s creative circuits, making recall a breeze. For people who are not artistically inclined, this might not be the best fit but don’t knock it till you try it. 

5. Exercise Embellishment:

Breaking a sweat isn’t just for gym rats; it’s for brainiacs too. Incorporating exercise into your study routine can boost memory and cognitive function. So, next time you find yourself hitting the books, consider hitting the treadmill too. It’s the perfect excuse to take a break and walk to the KSC. Having an active study break by running, dancing or even going on a walk by Lake Waban might be what your brain needs the most. 

7. Slumber Study:

Before important tests or quizzes in high school I used to sleep with whatever textbook I was studying with under my pillow as a hail mary attempt to engulf information. Even though it might have given me a permanent crick in my neck, studies show that reviewing information before bedtime can enhance memory consolidation. So, grab your notes, cozy up with your textbooks, and let your brain do the heavy lifting while you catch some Zs. It’s a win-win – you’re literally sleeping on success!

As reading period looms, arm yourself with your favorite technique or maybe just cram right before the last day of self scheduled exams. No judgment here. Whatever technique you decide to use, the key is finding what works for you. Happy studying!

Maniscalco graduated from Harvard-Westlake in 2021, and was a two-sport athlete in field hockey and soccer. She was captain of the field hockey team during her senior season, while also being three-time undefeated CIF Champions. After a successful High School career she had a powerful first-year and started in 16 games for The Blue. Last year, Maniscalco made the 2022 National Field Hockey Coaches Association Academic Squad. This year, she has had a career high of four goals so far this season as a defenseman and with two of the goals aiding The Blue to win against University of New England.

A teammate said this about Maniscalco, “She’s always a positive force of energy and gives it her all both on and off the field”. To learn more about what makes such a great student athlete and teammate, The News asked Maniscalcoa few questions.

TWN: How did you start playing field hockey?

SM: I started playing field hockey in seventh grade when I was looking for a sport to play in the soccer off-season. I immediately fell in love with the sport and knew I wanted to stick with it. My high school coaches started our club teams and really helped me become the player I am today. 

TWN: What is your favorite memory from playing field hockey over the years?

SM: My favorite field hockey memory was our quarterfinal victory over Smith in the Newmac playoffs during my first year. After giving up an early goal, our defense was able to shut down Smith for the rest of the game to allow our offense time to score two unanswered goals for my first playoff win. It was an amazing team victory.

TWN: Have you faced any adversity as your season has progressed? If so, how were you able to overcome those challenges?

SM: This year has been difficult because I was injured during the pre-season. Healing fully would have meant sitting out for much of the season, so I have had to manage the injury. We have had many players dealing with similar issues, and watching everyone on the team show up and play for each other has been so inspirational. 

TWN: Do you have any type of pre-game ritual?

SM: Before every game, I like to listen my pump up playlist that I made with Marin Kriner (#7). It gets me in the right frame of mind to go out and leave everything on the field. 

TWN: Who are your biggest supporters? 

SM: My biggest supporters are my family. They fly out for games whenever they can, and even when they are not here, I always know they are watching me from home. Our captain, Alex Lenart, has also been such a huge support system for me since first year and watching her deal with her injury this season has been a huge motivation for me on the field.

TWN: What are you interested in outside of athletics?

SM: Outside of athletics, I am excited to be studying abroad next semester at Oxford. I love experiencing new places and cultures, and can’t wait to see what it is like to study in England. 

At Wellesley, Maniscalco majors in Peace and Justice Studies. She is passionate about spending time with her family, singing karaoke with her best friend Eva and enjoying life to the fullest. With the help of Maniscalco, The Blue are set to play on Saturday Oct. 28, when the team hosts senior day against WPI at 1:00 p.m.

Mayo graduated from Saint John Vianney High School in 2022, where she started on the varsity volleyball team for three years while also being a Captain. After a successful High School career she had a powerful first-year and finished the season with 141 kills, and team-leading 43 total blocks  This year, with only playing a handful of games Mayo has helped the Blue to a 6-2 season. So far she has had 34 kills and is looking for more opportunities to dominate the court.  

To learn more about what makes such a great student athlete and teammate, The News asked Mayo a few questions.

TWN: How did you start playing Volleyball?

KM: The story of my volleyball journey’s start is very interesting, to say the least. I was once a cheerleader in my lifetime, following my mother’s footsteps, and in middle school, I unfortunately didn’t make the team. I still wanted to stay active, so one of my best friends and then long-time teammate suggested I try out for volleyball the next day. Since the first day I touched the ball, I knew I would love this sport! I then continued to play for middle school, high school and club.

TWN: What is your favorite memory from playing volleyball over the years? 

KM:My favorite memory from playing volleyball over the years has to be the time I spent playing for the National Team with Princeton Volleyball Club. Traveling the world with the greatest athletes and coaches from the tri-state area has been a blessing and has shaped me into the athlete, student and person I am today. My favorite city to play and explore was Boston, which persuaded me to play for Wellesley! I can’t wait to make more volleyball memories here at Wellesley!

TWN: Have you faced any adversity as your season has progressed? If so, how were you able to overcome those challenges?

KM: My season has just begun, and I’m grateful it is going smoothly so far. I have faced many challenges throughout my previous seasons, though. I suffered many injuries, including ankles, Achilles, fingers and back. Through prayer, PT and the support of my teammates, family and friends, I was able to get back on the court quickly!

TWN: Do you have any type of pre-game ritual? 

KM: I don’t have any personal pregame rituals; I usually go with the flow. With the team, we have many pregame rituals. We always bump “Bad Romance” by Lady Gaga before we run out on home games and have a scream circle.

TWN: Who are your biggest supporters? 

KM: My biggest supporters have to be my parents and grandma. They have driven me to every practice, and have never missed a game till this day! I have such an amazing support system. 

TWN: What are you interested in outside of athletics?

KM: I love photography and always take my Canon EOS Rebel G film camera with me everywhere I go. I love the process of filming and the excitement I feel when I receive the photos I took. Also, since I grew up on the Jersey Shore, I love swimming in the ocean and have been a lifeguard for three years! Lastly, I am a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated, where I can be of service to all mankind. 

At Wellesley, Kennedy majors in Political Science and Psychology. She is passionate about entrepreneurship, government and law, and social media marketing. With the help of Mayo, the Blue is on a win streak right now and will host its NEWMAC opener against Salve Regina on Tuesday.

Picklers, as they call themselves, have been growing in numbers since 2020. Now you’re probably wondering who wants to play a game like pickleball when tennis exists. In the past, all of the serious pickleball players have been older than 55 years old. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, pickleball was an easy activity for the elderly population that encouraged social interaction. It is safer than tennis for individuals with heart problems, is low impact and not too complicated to pick up. But this does not mean there is a sector of the sport that is highly competitive. There are a growing number of players under the age of 55 that are expanding the reach of the game. The USA Pickleball League has multiple brand partners and allows players to compete. They can earn just about $200,000 a year and get prize money or obtain sponsorships. 

The fact that pickleball was a top-grossing sport in America does not mean that it is accessible to all Americans. 73% of players are white and 45% have an income of $100,000 or higher according to an SFIA report. Pickleball needs more exposure in order for it to reach more communities. The pickleball culture needs to change quickly in order for the sport to not get branded as a “country club” sport. 

Even though Wellesley does not have a pickleball team, this sport proves very rewarding. Dare I say, the creation of a lovely pickleball team (perhaps adorned by the name the hot dills) should be created for the wonderful picklers of campus.

On Feb. 10, Team USA’s Chloe Kim won the snowboard halfpipe, her second gold medal after placing first in the same event in Pyeongchang in 2018, making her the first woman to defend an Olympic halfpipe title. Her first run included two 1080s and three spins. Even though she fell while trying to do the 1260, her first showing was enough to get the gold and win against Queralt Castellet of Spain and Sena Tomita of Japan.

Sadly, snowboarding legend Shaun White did not place in the snowboard halfpipe. Out of White’s three runs, his second run was his best, with a frontside 1440 before breaking into a double 1080. He followed up by perfectly pulling off a frontside 540, before the Double McTwist 1260. Lastly, he hit a clean frontside 1260. Unfortunately, the last run of his career ended with a wipe out at the end. The gold went to Japan’s Ayumu Hirano, while Australia’s Scotty James took silver and Switzerland’s Jan Scherrer took the bronze. White was 19 when he got his first gold medal in 2006 at Torina. He also finished on the podium in 2010 and fought back to win gold in 2018. Shaun White ends his career with the world record for the most X Games gold medals and the most Olympic gold medals by a snowboarder.

At the inuagural mixed team snowboard cross at the Olympics, America’s Lindsey Jacobellis and Nick Baumgartner won the gold medal. Baumgartner, 40, and Jacobellis, 36, are now the oldest snowboarders to win any Olympic medal and the oldest Americans to win gold at the Winter Games since 1948. 

Biathlon

Wellesley alum Clare Egan ’10 competed in the women’s relay and pursuit for the biathlon. The United States’ 4×6-kilometer women’s biathlon relay team placed 11th while Sweden won the gold medal. In the women’s pursuit, Egan placed 38th out of 60 overall and was the second-fastest of the three Americans in the race. She was behind Norway’s gold medalist Marte Olsbu Roiseland by 5 minutes, 30.1 seconds.

Speed Skating

Erin Jackson won the women’s 500 meter gold medal in Beijing. With a time of 37.04, she is the first US woman to win a speed skating gold at the Olympics since 1994. Jackson is also the first Black woman to win an individual medal in speed skating at the Olympics. Jackson almost did not compete in the 500 meter after messing up in the qualifiers, but a teammate gave up her spot so that Jackson could go to Beijing. She finished 0.08 seconds ahead of Japan’s Miho Takagi and 0.17 seconds ahead of the Russian Olympic Committee’s Angelina Golikova.

Figure Skating

Nathan Chen, with a dominant showing, won the men’s figure skating title by more than 22 points. His program included five quadruple jumps and a pair of triples. This was redemption for his performance in Pyeongchang in 2018, when he was a favorite but had no luck on the ice and placed fifth. Japanese competitors Yuma Kagiyama and Shoma Uno took silver and bronze, respectively.

At the beginning of the games, three Russians had a chance of taking all the spots on the podium for the first time in the history. However this did not come to fruition when it became public that Kamila Valieva, who is 15 years old, tested positive for a banned substance. Controversy erupted after the International Olympic Committee (IOC) still let her compete regardless. Valieva was favored to win the gold but ended up finishing first in the short program and fifth in the free to get an overall of fourth place. Her last programs had the most errors in her entire career compared to her showing last week before the controversy. Valieva was shaky on her first jump, the triple axel, and had to steady herself. She also fell on the triple toe loop and fell on the following jump combination. 

Also competing for the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) was Anna Shcherbakova, who earned gold. After winning the event, not one of her coaches or teammates were there to congratulate her. The team was more preoccupied with comforting a crying Kamila after realizing she did not get onto the podium and Alexandra Trusova, a teammate of both Valieva and Shcherbakova, who won silver. Trusova landed five quadruple jumps, but one of them got downgraded for being under-rotated. Her performance is considered the most challenging technical program in women’s Olympic figure skating history. Trusova was seen distressed and crying about the results and was determined to not skate out for the ceremony. Trusova won the free program, but her fourth place in the free program was not enough to win gold. With the events that unfolded in the women’s figure skating event, the debate about age requirements for competitors at the Olympics was revisited by the public. 

Ice Hockey

Canada defeated the US 3-2 to win women’s ice hockey gold in a great rivalry game. The US were defending their Olympic title, but Canada came back to win its fifth gold medal in the event. Canada and the US have been the only gold medal winners in the women’s hockey history since it was introduced in 1998. In the riveting final game, the Canadians took the lead with 3-0 lead by the third period. With a great rally, the US scored their first goal and eventually scored another with 13 seconds left.