During the pandemic when most of us were home during the lockdown and trying to find something to do, gave hope to young athletes who have dreams of competing in a very competitive spot. Ski jumping.

My WJLT 105.3 logo
Get our free mobile app

This particular club (located in River Fox Grove, Illinois ) prepares athletes for Olympic-level competition in the sport of Ski Jumping. This trains young athletes (as young as four) to fly high in the hope to join the USA Olympic Team. For three men, this year that dream comes true. This Illinois training facility, Norge Ski Club, is built on a hill created by a glacier. Their mission is:

Our mission is to foster, promote and advance participation in the growth and development of skiing. We offer national and international amateur athletic competitions. We are organized and operated exclusively for charitable and educational purposes.

When parents were looking to keep their children busy during the pandemic and trying to find new ways of entertainment, this club gave parents the opportunity to introduce ski jumping to their kids.

Who wouldn't want to fly high and see what it feels like to be Just Like Mike? When you start watching the Olympics, keep an eye out for these names Kevin Bickner, Casey Larson, and Patrick Gasienica all from Illinois, and all competing at this year's Olympic Games as Ski Jumpers. The Winter Games begin Friday, February 4 through Sunday, February 20.

GO TEAM USA!

LOOK: 20 Fascinating Photos From the First Modern Olympic Games in 1896

To celebrate the history of international sports cooperation, Stacker took a look back at that groundbreaking event in Athens, when the modern Olympics were born in 1896. Keep reading to learn more about the athletes, spectators, and sports at that iconic event.

LOOK: 50 images of winning moments from sports history

Sometimes images are the best way to honor the figures we've lost. When tragedy swiftly reminds us that sports are far from the most consequential thing in life, we can still look back on an athlete's winning moment that felt larger than life, remaining grateful for their sacrifice on the court and bringing joy to millions.

Read on to explore the full collection of 50 images Stacker compiled showcasing various iconic winning moments in sports history. Covering achievements from a multitude of sports, these images represent stunning personal achievements, team championships, and athletic perseverance.

More From My WJLT 105.3