AMERICAN JACKSON WINS GOLD

Erin Jackson of the United States won gold in the women’s 500 metres speed skating with an explosive start on Sunday, giving the US its first gold medal in the event since 1994 and first speed skating medal at the Beijing Olympics.

She could be seen grinning widely after completing her lap of the National Speed Skating Olympics in 37.04 seconds, but had to wait for the last pair to finish before embracing her coach and bursting into tears. “I wish I could describe how I feel. It is amazing. This medal means so much,” an emotional Jackson told reporters.