By JON FAULKNER
ANCHORAGE – In recognition of Kikkan Randall’s lifetime of outstanding contributions to the sport, the Olympic gold medalist and Alaskan cross-country skiing icon has been nominated for induction into the prestigious U.S. Ski & Snowboard Hall of Fame. The announcement, made earlier this month, celebrates Randall’s unparalleled achievements, including her pivotal role in securing America’s first-ever Olympic gold in women’s cross-country skiing.
Randall, an Anchorage native and executive director of the Nordic Skiing Association of Anchorage, etched her name in history at the 2018 PyeongChang Winter Olympics. Teaming with Jessie Diggins, she clinched the team sprint gold in a thrilling finish against Scandinavian powerhouses. The victory shattered decades of barriers for U.S. skiers.
Watch NBC Sport’s 2018 Winter Olympics: Randall, Diggins win gold, ending U.S. cross-country drought.
Over her 17-season career, Randall amassed 29 World Cup podiums, three consecutive sprint Crystal Globes, a 2009 World Championships silver, and a 2013 World Championships gold—milestones that redefined American excellence in Nordic skiing.
A cancer survivor, mother of two, and advocate for women’s empowerment through Fast and Female, Randall’s journey from East High School prodigy to global trailblazer inspires generations. “This nomination feels like a nod to our Anchorage community that believed in the impossible,” Randall said. “It’s our shared victory.”
Induction ceremonies are slated for April 2026 in Vail, Colorado. Randall joins Scott Gomez, an NHL star, and Carlos Boozer, an NBA standout, in a banner month of recognition for Alaskan sports legends.