Kelly Curtis is beaming with pride as she gears up to compete in the women’s skeleton and mixed team skeleton events at the upcoming 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, marking her second Olympic appearance after finishing 21st in Beijing in 2022. The former standout athlete from Princeton High School has pursued this goal with tenacity, crafting a five-year plan that began with her move to Aviano, Italy, in 2021 to train intensively.
Throughout her journey, Curtis, now 37, has faced trials that have shaped her into a formidable athlete. Reflecting on her Beijing experience, she gained invaluable lessons about pressure and performance. “It was a great experience, a net positive,” she shared, recognizing the challenges she encountered in her initial Olympic race. However, she is approaching this new opportunity with a wealth of knowledge about herself and the sport, feeling prepared as she aims for a stellar performance.
After a promising post-Olympic season in 2022-23, Curtis took a brief hiatus from competition due to the birth of her daughter Maeve in November 2023. Transitioning into motherhood offered her a fresh perspective on perseverance and competition. “The highs are even higher, the lows aren’t as low,” she expressed, embodying the joys and challenges of balancing her new role as a mother with her aspirations as an athlete. Upon returning to the sport, Curtis faced the demanding task of regaining strength while also navigating the complexities of traveling with an infant.
Despite initial struggles in her comeback season, Curtis demonstrated resilience and determination, culminating in a remarkable performance where she won U.S. nationals and finished 10th at the World Championships. Her journey serves as an inspiration, illustrating the power of perseverance and the relentless spirit of athletes.
Entering the 2025-26 season, Curtis encountered another setback with a hamstring injury that limited her training. Yet, her father, John Curtis, has unwavering faith in her abilities. He recalls how, even in high school, Kelly’s work ethic always impressed him, never doubting her capability to face challenges head-on.
Her defining moment came during the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) World Cup in St. Moritz, where she showcased her skills by moving from ninth to second place, solidifying her spot on the U.S. Olympic team. “When I slide at my best, I am one of the best,” Curtis said confidently, emphasizing her mindset heading into the Olympics.
As she prepares for the competition at the Cortina Sliding Center, Curtis is focused on maintaining a relaxed demeanor on her sled, drawing on the lessons learned from her previous Olympics. She emphasizes the importance of allowing her sled to perform and trusting her instincts as a competitor.
Curtis is already contemplating the possibility of a third Olympic run, inspired by women in the sport who continue to excel well into their 40s. Her journey, marked by tenacity, passion, and the joys of motherhood, highlights not only her individual resolve but also serves as a beacon of hope for all athletes balancing personal and professional ambitions. Curtis is ready to embark on this next chapter, fueled by her dreams and the unwavering support of her family.