'A dream come true': Ocala native Brittany Bowe talks her Olympic experience
After winning bronze in Beijing, U.S. speed skater and Ocala native, Brittany Bowe is back in the states.
"The trip was incredible and it started off cooler than I could have ever imagined,” Bowe said.
Bowe kicked off the Games as one of Team USA's flag bearers, stepping in for U.S. bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor who tested positive for COVID-19 right before the opening ceremony.
"To be able to take on that honor was a dream come true and the honor of a lifetime," Bowe said.
Beijing was Bowe's third Olympic games and, in addition to bringing home the bronze in the 1,000 meter race, she was also there alongside her friend and teammate Erin Jackson as Jackson won gold in the 500 meter.
"Erin winning that gold medal in the 500 meter was a really great kick start to a lot of awesome moments for U.S. speed skating throughout the games," Bowe said.
Jackson and male speed skater Joey Mantia are also from Ocala.
Now, as the two athletes make their way home, the town is planning a huge celebration.
Bowe says she can't wait.
"To get back to Ocala with those two and share our medals with that community because without their support this wouldn't be nearly as sweet," Bowe said.
But even with all the celebrations, Bowe's work isn't done.
She is going to the Netherlands for another competition in March and also hasn't ruled out the 2026 Olympic Games in Italy.
"I don't know what the future holds for me but I can't say that Italy is not going to be an option," Bowe said.