Emery Lehman Secures Silver at Milano Cortina 2026, Continuing Impressive Speed Skating Career
MILANO CORTINA, Italy – American speed skater Emery Lehman added to his impressive Olympic medal collection on Saturday, securing a silver medal in the team pursuit event at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina. This marks Lehman’s second Olympic medal, following a bronze in the same event at the 2022 Beijing Games. The 29-year-old Lehman, representing the United States, has now competed in four consecutive Winter Olympics, beginning with the 2014 Sochi Games, demonstrating remarkable consistency and dedication to his sport. His performance underscores the growing strength of American speed skating on the world stage.
Lehman’s journey to Olympic success began in Chicago, Illinois, where he was born on June 13, 1996. According to his Wikipedia profile, he initially took up speed skating at the age of nine as a means to improve his ice hockey skills. He quickly transitioned to focusing solely on speed skating, honing his skills with the Franklin Park Speedskating Club under the guidance of coach Gabriel Girard. Lehman’s early success included winning the 10,000 meters at the 2013–14 US Senior Championship/Olympic Trials and placing second in the 5,000 meters, signaling his potential as a future Olympic contender.
From Hockey Aspirations to Olympic Glory
The transition from hockey to speed skating proved pivotal for Lehman. He attended Oak Park and River Forest High School, where he excelled academically as an honor student while simultaneously pursuing his athletic ambitions. As detailed in his biography, Lehman’s dedication to both academics and athletics highlights his well-rounded character and commitment to personal growth. He continued his education at Marquette University, balancing his studies with rigorous training schedules.
Lehman’s career has been marked by consistent improvement and a series of impressive performances on the international stage. Beyond his Olympic medals, he has secured multiple podium finishes at World Single Distances Championships, Four Continents Championships, and World Junior Championships. Specifically, he earned a team pursuit medal at the 2025 Hamar World Single Distances Championships, and another at the 2024 and 2025 Four Continents Championships, both in team pursuit. He also claimed a 1500m medal at the 2024 Salt Lake City Four Continents Championships. His success at the junior level, including victories in the 5000m at the 2013 Collalbo and 2014 Bjugn World Junior Championships, foreshadowed his future achievements.
A Two-Time Olympic Medalist
The silver medal in Milano Cortina adds to Lehman’s growing legacy as one of America’s most accomplished speed skaters. His first Olympic medal, a bronze in the team pursuit at the 2022 Beijing Games, established him as a key member of the U.S. Team. His profile confirms that he has consistently represented the United States in major international competitions, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the sport. The team pursuit event requires exceptional teamwork and strategic coordination, qualities that Lehman consistently demonstrates.
Currently residing in Millcreek, Utah, as a member of Team USA, Lehman maintains a rigorous training regimen. He enjoys spending his downtime playing table tennis with friends, a hobby that provides a welcome respite from the demands of competitive speed skating. Lehman’s passion for sports extends beyond speed skating, as he is a devoted fan of the Chicago Bears and Chicago Blackhawks, and cites Bo Jackson as his sporting hero.
Family and Background
Lehman’s strong family support system has been instrumental in his success. He was raised in Chicago, Illinois, by his parents, Marcia and David Lehman. His mother works in the non-profit sector in Chicago, while his father is employed by Cook County. According to available information, Lehman’s Jewish heritage is an significant part of his identity.
Looking Ahead
With the 2026 Winter Olympics now concluded, Lehman will likely focus on preparing for future competitions and continuing to represent the United States on the international stage. His dedication, talent, and unwavering commitment to excellence position him as a continued force in the world of speed skating. The next major event on the speed skating calendar is the World Single Distances Championships in 2027, where Lehman will undoubtedly aim to add to his impressive collection of medals.
The success of athletes like Emery Lehman inspires a new generation of speed skaters and demonstrates the power of perseverance and dedication. His story serves as a reminder that with hard work and determination, anything is possible.
Stay tuned to World Today Journal for continued coverage of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics and the latest updates on Emery Lehman’s career. We encourage you to share your thoughts and reactions in the comments below.