U.S. Senator John Barrasso (R-Wyo.), the Senate Majority Whip, addressed the Senate to recognize three athletes from Wyoming who will compete for Team USA in the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milan, Italy.
Jaelin Kauf from Alta is set to participate in Single and Dual Mogul Skiing. This will be her third Olympic appearance. Barrasso highlighted her family background in skiing, noting, “Both of her parents were professional mogul skiers.” He also recalled her previous success: “Wyoming was thrilled – but not at all surprised – when she took home the silver medal at the 2022 Games.” Kauf will compete in both single and dual moguls, with dual moguls making its Olympic debut this year.
Breezy Johnson of Jackson Hole returns to alpine skiing after an injury forced her withdrawal from the 2022 Olympics. Barrasso stated, “She had to withdraw from the 2022 Games after tearing her anterior cruciate ligament and meniscus.” He described Johnson as someone who “embodies the relentless drive of a champion and the ability to overcome adversity.”
Anna Gibson, also from Jackson Hole, will make her Olympic debut in Ski Mountaineering. Both Gibson and this event are new to the Olympics. Barrasso explained that ski mountaineering involves skiing up a steep mountain before descending. He said of Gibson: “As a decorated cross-country runner – which will get her up the mountain – and a Nordic skier – which will get her down the mountain – Anna is made for this challenge.”
Barrasso concluded his remarks by expressing pride on behalf of Wyoming: “My home state of Wyoming will be cheering on each and every one of these three incredible women – and we will be watching them with pride.” He added that representing Team USA is an honor achieved by few athletes.
“All of America wishes the very, very best for Team USA in the days and weeks ahead,” Barrasso said.
