Since 1976 the number of African-Americans competing for Winter Olympic glory has steadily increased. With the iconic international sporting competition commencing this week, we spotlight the Black athletes vying for medal honors at Sochi.
Historically people of color have had minimal access to the Winter Games. The sports require a substantial amount of travel. Additionally the equipment, training and access to proper facilities can be costly.
Despite these obstacles several athletes of color will be representing us proudly throughout different sports at the 2014 Winter Olympics.
So we present the current roster of African-American 2014 Winter Olympians that we should look out for during the next two weeks of competition.
Let us know who you think has a shot at the gold in the comments section.
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Photo:Ā Russ Isabella-USA TODAY Sports
Elana Meyers
Bobsled
Elana is the daughter of former Atlanta Falcons running back Eddie Meyers. She has previously medaled in the 2010 Olympic Winter Games.
Jazmine Fenlator
Bobsled
The New Jersey native holds various records at her alma mater Rider University for indoor shot put, outdoor shot put and discus.
Aja Evans
Bobsled
Aja is also a track and field specialist who excelled at both shot put and sprinting. Her brother Fred is the defensive tackle for the Minnesota Vikings NFL football team.
Lori “Lolo” Jones
Bobsled
It was teammate Elana Meyers that introduced Lolo Jones to bobsledding. While she was unsuccessful at winning the gold in track and field, she feels bobsledding has given her both a new start and strength.
Lauryn Williams
Bobsled
Lauryn is a two time gold medalist winning the gold at the 2012 London Games in track and field. While she is fairly new to bobsledding she hopes to bring the same intensity to ice tracks that she brought to the track.Ā
Shani Davis
Speed Skating
Davis has been skating since the age of 2. He has previously wonĀ gold in the 1000m at the 2006 Olympic Winter Games in Turin, and gold at the 2005 and 2006 world all around championships.
