2026 Paralympics: Team USA Off to a Flying Start
The 2026 Paralympic Games have begun, and the United States is already making its mark! Just hours into the competition, Team USA climbed onto the medal board with a dominant one-two finish in the women’s 7.5km biathlon (sitting) race. This early success sets the stage for what promises to be an exciting Games.
Oksana Masters: A Legend Continues to Grow
For Oksana Masters, this Paralympics is already adding another chapter to her incredible story. Already Team USA’s most decorated Winter Paralympian of all-time with a staggering 19 career (and 14 winter) Paralympic medals, Masters reminded the world why she’s considered one of the greatest. She secured a gold medal in the women’s sitting sprint, finishing 16 seconds ahead of the competition.
“My emotions are just pure shock. I did not expect this. All I was hoping was just to have a good time in the shooting range,” Masters shared after the race. “I did not expect a podium finish to be honest, let alone a gold.”
Masters’ journey to this victory wasn’t without its challenges. Battling a recurring leg infection and concussion leading up to the Games, her participation was initially uncertain. “I’m starting to realize that’s who I am; I have to have adversity going into the Games, although I don’t like it,” she admitted. Her performance, however, silenced any doubts.
This gold medal marks Masters’ twentieth Paralympic medal, placing her in an exclusive group of U.S. athletes to achieve this milestone. With numerous events still to come, she has the opportunity to further cement her legacy.
“For me, I have a very strong ‘why’, where every single stroke for me counts. It’s for every Paralympian, every athlete with a disability that was overlooked and was told they were never going to be enough and didn’t belong,” Masters passionately stated. “That helps me overcome those adversities.”
Kendall Gretsch Shines Alongside Masters
Joining Masters on the podium was Kendall Gretsch, who delivered a flawless performance on the shooting range. Entering her fifth Paralympic Games, Gretsch now boasts an impressive eight medals, including four gold and three silver.
“I’m really excited and I’m just happy to get the first race under my belt. It’s been so long since we’ve raced this season, so you just never know where you’re at,” Gretsch said. “It’s a really good start. Hopefully I can keep building from here and maintain this. I’m really excited for the rest of the races.”
The camaraderie between Masters and Gretsch was palpable. Finishing nearly a minute ahead of the rest of the field and sharing the podium with a teammate made the victory even sweeter.
What’s Next?
Both Oksana Masters and Kendall Gretsch will be back in action on Sunday for the women’s 12.5km (sitting) competition. Keep an eye on the official Paralympic website for the latest updates on the medal count and schedules. The 2026 Paralympics are already proving to be a showcase of incredible athleticism and inspiring stories.
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