Alaska Cyclist Makes Waves at Olympics
As she prepares to head to the Tour de France Femmes, Homer-raised Kristen Faulkner told Alaska’s News Source during a wide-reaching 1-on-1 conversation that she has not fully grasped the last whirlwind week, which included becoming Alaska’s only double Olympic gold medalist.
“It definitely hasn’t sunk in,” the 31-year-old Faulkner said. “I think, you know, it was like, one race and then another race, and then media. And I think maybe tonight or tomorrow morning, I’ll be able to relax and let it sink in.”
Stunning Performance at Paris Olympics
On Sunday, Faulkner delivered a stunning performance to finish first in the women’s road cycling event. Just three days later, she secured another gold medal when Team USA defeated New Zealand in the women’s team pursuit finals.
Unique Medals and Family Support
One thing she is certain of — she’ll be taking her medals to the Tour de France Femmes because she wants to show them to her teammates.
Faulkner explained, “They already have some scratch marks on them from like hitting each other, because there’s two of them. In the middle of it, it’s a piece of the Eiffel Tower … and then the back is actually a really cool design as well. They did a really good job … and the bottom has the name of the event. So each metal is slightly different because it has the name of the event.”
Challenges Along the Journey
The road to her double-gold medal performance at the Paris Olympics was tough, with injuries, setbacks, and mental challenges. Faulkner’s parents have been her unwavering support throughout.
Faulkner highlighted, “I think for my parents, they’ve seen the really bumpy, dark road and hard road that led to it, and I think that gave them a lot more emotions than most people because they really saw me persevere and have so much resilience to come through those moments.”
Balancing Alaska Roots with International Competitions
While Faulkner travels the world for competitions, she cherishes her time in Homer, Alaska, and the support of her community.
“Homer is my favorite place in the world,” she said. “It’s where I grew up. It’s where I had my earliest childhood dreams. My parents still live there. The house I grew up in is still there.”
Continued Pursuit of Excellence
Faulkner’s dedication, influenced by her analytical nature from her previous venture capitalist role, propels her towards more cycling achievements.
Faulkner stated, “I think I’ve always been an analytical person, even before my former job. I’ve always been someone who … is willing to take small risks or big risks, someone who likes to be all in and fully dedicated to something I do.”
(Getty)
Unwavering Determination
Faulkner’s strategic approach and signature attacking move led her to victory at the Olympics. She remains motivated for future challenges, including the Tour de France Femmes.
Faulkner expressed, “The moment we hit the front group, I said this is the time to go. This is when everyone’s most tired. They’re not expecting it. And so when I was with [Belgian cyclist] Lotte Kopecky and we were approaching the front two, I said, as soon as we catch them, I have to go.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
To aspiring athletes, Faulkner’s story emphasizes resilience and dedication.
Faulkner shared, “I think Alaskans are just cut out a bit different. I think we’re tough. I think we’re resilient. I think we’re quite independent, just being, you know, a little bit off the grid as a state. And I think that resilience and toughness really shows in sports.”
Future Goals and Legacy
Faulkner’s journey continues, with upcoming competitions and a drive to achieve more in cycling.
Faulkner mentioned, “I want to go win a world championship on the track. We have the world championships coming up. And yes, the goals don’t stop … someone asked me if I’m still motivated, and yes, I’m definitely still motivated. So that didn’t change because of the Olympic medals.”
Kristen Faulkner’s success story serves as a reminder of the strength and determination it takes to reach the pinnacle of athletic achievement, inspiring athletes around the world.
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