MILAN-CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, Italy — As the pressure mounts for athletes competing at the Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic Winter Games, finding moments of calm and focus becomes paramount. For 21-year-old American speedskater Greta Myers, that respite comes not from traditional athlete recovery methods, but from the rhythmic click of crochet hooks and the soft texture of yarn. The Lino Lakes, Minnesota native is competing in five events at the Games, and has discovered that the meditative practice of crochet helps her navigate the intensity of Olympic competition.
Myers made her Olympic debut in the 3000 meters, and while a medal eluded her in that event and the team pursuit, her dedication to her sport and her unique approach to managing stress have drawn attention. Beyond the ice, Myers channels her energy into crafting, most recently creating a heartfelt gift for her mother: a custom tote bag adorned with an American flag in the shape of a heart. This isn’t a casual hobby; it’s a deliberate strategy for mental well-being.
A Handmade Gift, A Moment of Zen
The idea for the tote bag came to Myers after the Olympic trials earlier this year. She shared the finished product on Instagram, explaining that she’d taken “a few liberties with the design” to create something special for her mom to carry while cheering her on in Italy. The bag represents more than just a handmade gift; it’s a tangible expression of her gratitude and a symbol of the support system that has propelled her to the Olympic stage.
“It’s been very therapeutic for me,” Myers told HuffPost. “It’s given me a good outlet outside of skating that I can just funnel my attention to.” She acknowledges the inherent challenges of the creative process, adding, “You have to trust the process, and you have to accept sometimes it’s not going to turn out perfect.” This acceptance, she says, translates to her approach on the ice, allowing her to embrace the unpredictable nature of competition.
From Hockey Rink to Olympic Oval
Myers’ journey to the Olympics is a testament to her athletic versatility and dedication. She initially excelled in ice hockey, starting the sport at age two, before transitioning to speedskating at age 12 after a local coach recognized her potential. Team USA’s profile of Myers highlights her rapid ascent in the sport, noting she became the first American woman in 20 years to medal in the all-around at the world junior championships.
Her success isn’t limited to junior competitions. In 2024, Myers won gold in the mass start at the ISU Speedskating World Cup #3 and claimed the U.S. Long Track Speedskating Championship title in the 3,000m. She followed that up in 2025 with a bronze medal in the team pursuit at the ISU Speedskating World Cup #1, and a fifth-place finish in the team pursuit at the World Championships in Hamar, Norway. The official Olympics website details her impressive track record, showcasing her consistent performance on the international stage.
A Multifaceted Athlete
Standing at 5’6”, Myers specializes in the mass start, 1,500m, and team pursuit events. Her versatility and dedication have earned her a spot in five events at the Milan-Cortina Games. Beyond her athletic achievements, Myers enjoys a variety of introspective hobbies, including cooking, baking, reading, and painting, demonstrating a well-rounded personality and a commitment to personal growth.
Her Olympic experience so far includes a fourth-place finish in the team pursuit, a 20th-place finish in the 3000m, and a 29th-place finish in the 1500m. Today, her mother will be in the stands, proudly carrying the handmade tote bag, as Myers competes in the women’s 1500 meters event.
The ability to disconnect and recharge is crucial for athletes at the highest level, and Greta Myers has found a unique and fulfilling way to do just that. Her story serves as a reminder that success isn’t solely defined by medals and records, but also by the ability to find balance and joy amidst the challenges of elite competition.
As Myers continues her Olympic journey, her focus will remain on delivering her best performance while embracing the therapeutic benefits of her creative outlet. The women’s 1500m event represents another opportunity to showcase her talent and determination on the world stage.
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