8legs: Breezy johnson

#2 out of 2

Knitting and skiing are polar opposites. For Breezy Johnson, that’s the point

Johnson won the women’s downhill gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics, claiming Team USA’s first gold of the Games.
She knits the night before races, calling it escapism and a way to stay calm on race day.
Knitting is described as a form of escapism that helps Johnson manage stress and focus on performance.
Johnson has turned knitting into a race-day ritual, bringing handmade items to the mountaintop for anticipation and ritual.
The hobby began early in life, with Johnson learning from her mother and evolving into a more serious pursuit during recovery from injuries.
Her first Olympic podium came after she wore a knitted hat at a World Cup event in 2020, reinforcing the link between knitting and performance.
Johnson plans another headband for the upcoming Super-G event, continuing the pre-race knitting tradition.
The piece frames knitting as part of the mental side of sport, highlighting its potential benefits for stress regulation and focus.
The article is part of Peak, The Athletic’s desk focusing on sports leadership, personal development, and success.
Elise Devlin authored the piece, chronicling Johnson’s knitting journey and Olympic performance.

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