Boulder’s Olympic Connection Runs Through CU

As the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan–Cortina get underway, Boulder’s presence on the world stage is once again represented through athletes from the University of Colorado Boulder.

The Buffs have long been known for developing elite winter athletes, and the 2026 Games continue that tradition with competitors representing multiple countries and disciplines.

Below is the official, confirmed list of University of Colorado’s 2026 Winter Olympians.

University of Colorado’s 2026 Winter Olympians

Alvar Alev – Cross-Country Skiing (Estonia)

Alvar Alev returns to the Olympic stage for his second Winter Games, having previously competed in 2022. A three-time All-American at Colorado, Alev is one of Estonia’s most experienced distance skiers.

His consistency and endurance reflect the strength of CU’s Nordic skiing program.

Stacy Gaskill – Snowboard Cross (United States)

Stacy Gaskill makes her Olympic return after overcoming a torn ACL, a comeback that underscores both resilience and determination. She will compete in both individual and mixed snowboard cross events.

Her return marks one of the most inspiring stories among CU’s Olympians in 2026.

Cass Gray – Alpine Skiing (Canada)

Cass Gray, an NCAA giant slalom champion as a Buff, earns her second consecutive Olympic selection. She has been one of CU’s most accomplished alpine skiers in recent years.

Her technical skill and consistency continue to place her among Canada’s top alpine competitors.

Hugo Hinckfuss – Cross-Country Skiing (Australia)

A current member of the Colorado Ski Team, Hugo Hinckfuss heads to Milan as one of Australia’s top distance skiers. He previously competed in the 2022 Winter Olympics, bringing valuable experience into his second Games.

His international success highlights CU’s role in developing global talent.

Svea Irving – Freestyle Skiing (United States)

Svea Irving will compete in the freeski halfpipe at her first Olympic Games. A CU graduate, she enters the Olympics with multiple World Cup top-five finishes in the event.

Her Olympic debut marks a major milestone in an already impressive freestyle career.

Jakob Moch – Cross-Country Skiing (Germany)

Jakob Moch makes history as the first University of Colorado student-athlete ever to compete for Germany at the Winter Olympics. A current Colorado freshman, his selection reflects both elite performance and rapid development.

His presence further emphasizes CU’s global reach in Nordic skiing.

Joanne Reid – Biathlon (United States)

Joanne Reid earns her third Olympic selection, returning to the Games after a challenging comeback. Her longevity and perseverance in biathlon — one of the Olympics’ most demanding sports — speak to her experience and discipline.

She remains one of the most seasoned athletes on CU’s Olympic roster.

Ryder Sarchett – Alpine Skiing (United States)

Ryder Sarchett was part of Colorado’s 2024 national championship team and becomes the first U.S. alpine Olympic skier from CU in nearly 30 years.

His Olympic selection marks a historic moment for both the athlete and the university’s alpine program.

A Proud Moment for Boulder and CU

Together, these athletes represent the University of Colorado across multiple sports, nations, and Olympic disciplines. Their presence at the 2026 Winter Games continues a long-standing tradition of excellence rooted in Boulder’s training environment and CU’s competitive programs.

As competition unfolds in Milan–Cortina, Boulder has plenty to cheer for — safely, accurately, and proudly.

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