While Joe was lucky enough to chat with Illinois' Olympian Bonnie Blair, I had the opportunity to talk on the phone with former U.S. long track speedskater Eric Heiden, who won an unprecedented five gold medals at the 1980 Winter Games in Lake Placid.
Heiden's success at the 1980 Games has been drawing recent attention because U.S. short track speedskater Apolo Anton Ohno has a chance to eclipse Heiden's five-medal total and top the list for most medals won by an American man at the Winter Games.
I talked with Heiden about his relationship with Ohno, how athletes view medal counts and these Vancouver Games.
Q & A with five-time Olympic gold medalist Eric Heiden
Q: Can you describe your relationship with Ohno?
We know each other pretty darn well. I've taken care of his medial issues. If something comes up, I'm always there to give him some insight. I know him as a friend. A lot of components go into the friendship. We're good colleagues.Q: What do you think has made him so successful on the short-track?
He's always making sure that the loose ends are tied up. He's incredibly well prepared and dedicated to his training. He has a very savvy strategy [on the ice] and knows the strengths and weaknesses of his opponents. He's very confidence in his abilities.Q: How would you feel if Ohno were to medal and break the medal count you two currently share?
It wouldn't bother me. He's had a stellar career as a skater. It'd be nice if he passed me. It would take the pressure of of me holding this record for so long.Q: How would your accomplishments in 1980 compare to his and the mark he could set in these Games?
It's like comparing apples and oranges. My career was short--a one time shot. He's been at it a long, long time. It's a greater accomplishment to do what he does year in and year out.Q: In terms of winning medals, do you think quality vs. quantity matters?
I don't know how much value athletes put on medals. They think about putting in their very best effort when the opportunity arises. I never pay attention to who has all the medals. I'm impressed more with a skater who leaves the ice after putting in his best effort.Q: Once Ohno tied you for the most medals, did you have that on your mind going into these Games?
Every once in a while we joke about it. We laugh that people make such a big deal about it.Q: Do you miss competing in the Olympics?
I don't miss the competitions themselves. I miss being around the village. I miss being with the team and the fanfare.Q: What do you think of Vancouver Games?
I've been very impressed with the skating venue, and the Olympic Village is spectacular.Q: Lastly, what has Ohno told you about how he feels about his chances?
He feels very ready for these Games. That's a good sign--a guy like him having that kind of confidence.
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2 Comments
Christiana Johns said:
Great Q&A! He has a great perspective and attitude about this.
John Kristoff said:
Agreed. I especially liked his take on the "quality vs. quantity."
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