Willowbrook native Sarah Warren, a graduate of Hinsdale South High School, has secured a spot in the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics after a remarkable performance at the U.S. Olympic Trials on January 4. Competing at the Pettit National Ice Center, Warren clocked in at 38.67 seconds in the women’s long-track 500-meter event, surpassing the third-place finisher by a notable .22 seconds.
Warren, 29, has faced numerous challenges throughout her athletic career, chronicling her journey in a “surgical timeline” that reflects her significant struggles and triumphs. An artist of resilience, her fight began with multiple knee surgeries at age 13, stemming from soccer injuries while playing at the University of Illinois. Despite the setbacks, including recent surgeries for ruptured ankle ligaments and multiple anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstructions, she has continually demonstrated unwavering determination.
Her mother, Cathy Warren, who relocated to Salt Lake City to support her daughter’s training, remarked on the dedication required for such a challenging pursuit. As the athlete prepared for the Trials, she acknowledged moments of doubt; however, with ten surgeries behind her, she persisted, focusing on the progress made during her rehabilitation.
The culmination of her hard work manifested during the Olympic Trials, where crossing the finish line felt surreal. “It’s almost like everything flashed before my eyes, the idea of what I went through,” Warren expressed, deeply moved by the support of her family and coaches who stood by her side throughout the journey.
The competitive spirit runs deep in Warren’s family, with her great uncle, Kevin Warren, serving as the President and CEO of the Chicago Bears. Her involvement in sports began early as she ventured into hockey and eventually discovered speed skating, a decision that she credits with helping her thrive athletically.
Warren navigated her way up through youth competitions to eventually make the U.S. National Team by 2022, clinching opportunities to compete in World Cups and the World Championships in subsequent years. Now, with aspirations to surpass her personal best of 38.10 seconds in Milan, she aims to showcase her skills on the international stage.
Beyond her athletic pursuits, Warren hopes to inspire others facing challenges, emphasizing the power of belief and perseverance. Her journey illustrates that despite facing incredibly dim moments, there is always a glimmer of hope and the possibility of achieving one’s dreams.