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Dan Jansen

Speed Skater Dan Jansen

Profession: Speed Skater

Nationality:
United States of America
American

Biography: Dan Jansen is a former American speed skater who is widely recognized as one of the greatest long-track speed skaters in history. He is best known for his incredible determination and resilience, which ultimately led him to Olympic gold after years of heartbreaking setbacks.

Jansen made his Olympic debut at the 1984 Winter Games but did not achieve medal success. Tragedy struck during the 1988 Olympics when his sister passed away on the morning of his 500-meter race. Jansen fell during the race and then again in the 1,000-meter event, leaving the Games without a medal.

In the 1992 Winter Olympics, Jansen narrowly missed out on a medal once more, finishing fourth in the 500-meter race. Despite these setbacks, he continued to work hard and maintain his focus on achieving Olympic success.

Jansen's determination finally paid off at the 1994 Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway. In his last Olympic race, the 1,000-meter event, he set a world record time of 1:12.43 and won the gold medal, capping off an emotional and inspiring journey.

Born: June 17, 1965
Birthplace: West Allis, Wisconsin, USA
Age: 59 years old

Generation: Generation X
Chinese Zodiac: Snake
Star Sign: Gemini

Historical Events

  • 1992-01-25 Dan Jansen skates world record 500m in 36.41"
  • 1993-03-20 Dan Jansen skates world record 500m (36.02 sec)
  • 1993-12-04 Dan Jansen skates world record 500m (35.92 sec)
  • 1994-01-30 Dan Jansen skates world record 500m (35.76)
  • 1994-02-18 Dan Jansen skates world record 1000m (1:12.43)

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