Olympic gold medalist and world champion speed skater, known for his dominance in the 500m and 1000m events, and his advocacy for humanitarian causes.
Joey Cheek is a renowned American former speed skater and inline speed skater, best known for his Olympic gold medal in the 500-meter event at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy. His exceptional skills on the ice earned him the title of World Sprint Champion in 2006, making him a household name in the speed skating community.
Born on June 22, 1979, in Greensboro, North Carolina, Cheek's journey to becoming a world-class speed skater began when he met and watched neighborhood friends speed skating. He soon fell in love with the sport and began training, eventually specializing in short and middle distances.
Cheek's breakthrough came at the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, where he won the bronze medal in the 1,000 meters. This was followed by a bronze medal at the 2003 World Single Distance Championships in Berlin, where he excelled in the 1,000 and 1,500-meter events.
In 2005, Cheek made the podium for the first time in the World Sprint Championships, finishing behind Dutch speed skater Erben Wennemars. However, it was in 2006 that he truly made his mark on the speed skating world, becoming the World Sprint Champion in Heerenveen, Netherlands.
Cheek's crowning achievement came at the 2006 Winter Olympics in Turin, Italy, where he won the gold medal in the 500-meter event. His dominating performance saw him record a two-run total time of 109.76, beating runner-up Dmitry Dorofeyev of Russia by 0.65 seconds. He also won the silver medal in the 1,000-meter race, finishing just behind teammate Shani Davis.
After retiring from competitive speed skating, Cheek went on to pursue a career in media entrepreneurship. He has also become involved in various charitable initiatives, including supporting athletes on Team Darfur.
Cheek graduated from Princeton University, where he was a member of the Ivy Club. He was previously rejected by Harvard University, but commentator Bob Costas lobbied the Dean of Admissions to reconsider the decision.
Joey Cheek's remarkable speed skating career has left an indelible mark on the sport. His dedication, perseverance, and exceptional talent have inspired countless young athletes to take up the sport. As a media entrepreneur, he continues to make a positive impact on the world, both on and off the ice.
49 Years Old
An Olympic gold medalist and world champion speed skater, known for his dominance in the 1000m and 1500m events, earning him the title of World Speed Skating Champion.
42 Years Old
American speed skater who specializes in the 500-meter event, winning multiple World Championship medals and competing in three Winter Olympics. Known for his speed and agility on the ice.
37 Years Old
American speed skater who won two Olympic medals, including a gold in the 1000m event, and held multiple world records in the early 2010s.
