Erin Jackson.Photo: Courtesy US Speedskating
Erin Jackson can’t be slowed down.
“After my stumble at Olympic Trials, I was unsure if I’d be able to take a shot at the big gold medal this year,” Jackson tells PEOPLE during an interview about her partnership with superdrinkCheribundi. “When Brittany declined her 500m spot (bumping me from my third-place finish into a qualifying position), it was hard to put into words what I felt.”
She adds, “I was extremely grateful and humbled and happy. Brittany is an amazingly selfless person and I’m honored to call her a friend.”
The teammates both hail from Ocala, Florida, and have known each other for years — long before Jackson even began speed skating in 2016.
The now-two-time Olympic athlete chats with PEOPLE about her friendship with Bowe, what her goals are for Beijing, and why she turns to Cheribundi.
PEOPLE:Take us back to the beginning — were you always an athletic kid?
JACKSON:I was definitely more of a bookworm than an athlete as a kid. I played a few random sports in elementary and middle school and joined the track team for two seasons in high school. I’ve also been a skater for as long as I can remember. Skating became more than just a fun after-school activity for me when I was about 11 years old.
PEOPLE: When was the first time you tried speed skating? At what point did you realize, oh wow, I’m good at this?
JACKSON:I first put on ice speed skates at the end of 2016. I had attended an open skating session with a friend in the Netherlands. The following year, I went to Salt Lake City to try out the long track speed skating program there.
Erin Jackson.Courtesy US Speedskating
PEOPLE: You and Bowe have known each other for years. Can you talk about your relationship, on and off the ice?
PEOPLE:Now, Bowe is able to also compete in the 500m after spots were reallocated. Does having her also compete motivate you more?
JACKSON:I was ecstatic to hear that we had earned a third starting place in the 500m. All three of our short-distance ladies have had a great World Cup season and it would have been unfortunate for any one of us to sit out. I’m glad Brittany’s good deed came back around to her so quickly and I hope it continues on to a great performance in the 500m and her two other events.
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PEOPLE: What does training look like for you?
Cheribundi’s tart cherries are scientifically proven to reduce muscle soreness, support immunity, reduce inflammation, and provide better sleep — four things that are very important as I am training. I also love that I can easily throw Cheribundi juices or concentrates in my bag when I am on the go.
Cheribundi.Cheribundi
PEOPLE: What do you like best about Cheribundi?
JACKSON:The taste! Of course, the scientifically-backed benefits for recovery reduced inflammation, and better sleep, don’t hurt, either.
PEOPLE: In addition to the physical aspects, how do you incorporate mindfulness into your training and prioritize your mental health?
JACKSON:I prioritize my mental health through stress management. I try to stay organized and responsible with my schedule to avoid unnecessary stressors.
PEOPLE: Representing the U.S. at an Olympics — what does that mean to you?
JACKSON:It’s an honor to represent the U.S. at the Olympics. Team USA is like a big family and it feels great to cheer each other on as we all go for gold.
source: people.com
