Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
Samantha Hayes ReportingYou don't usually hear American names when Olympic medals are awarded in cross country skiing. But this time around, it could be much different. Kris Freeman has had the best results for American men heading into the Olympics in two decades.
Freeman has battled a lot to make it to this point, including a health condition that doctors thought would end his career. Repetition is a big part of any elite athlete's life, but 12 times a day, Kris Freeman does something his competitors don't.
Kris Freeman: "I'm able to do everything they are able to do. I just have to test my blood sugar and take insulin injections every day." Cross Country
Freeman was diagnosed with diabetes five years ago. At the time, he said it was devastating. But since then, it has not slowed him down. In fact, he is a two-time U.S. champion. And last year he battled a viral infection that made racing painful.
Freeman grew up in Andover, New Hampshire and started skiing at two-years old. He joined the U.S. Ski Team's national residence program in Park City Utah in 2000 and competed in the Salt Lake City Olympics. This time he's looking for a medal.
Kris Freeman: "The difference between this time and last time is in 2002, I had overcome a lot of adversity. I was just happy I made it there and happy to compete and be at my best. But this time around I've been able to really focus and look just for the top results, and I won't be happy with anything less than a medal."
At the Olympic Summit last year, Freeman said all Americans have to do is win to bring more attention to the sport that is traditionally dominated by Europeans.
Kris Freeman: "You go back seven or eight years, no one cared about road biking. Then Lance Armstrong came along and dominated. Now everyone loves road biking. All you got to do is win and the US love it!"
Freeman will be competing in the 15 km classic and the pursuit.
