Feb 14 β€’ 09:32 UTC πŸ‡°πŸ‡· Korea Hankyoreh (KR)

The Skeleton Same-Sex Couple's Valentine Rush Confidently Facing Prejudice

A skeleton couple, Kim Meilamans from Belgium and Nicole Rocha Silveira from Brazil, are competing in the Olympics on Valentine's Day, navigating both their love for each other and the pressures of sports competition.

On Valentine's Day, Kim Meilamans, representing Belgium, and Nicole Rocha Silveira, from Brazil, are poised to compete against each other in the Olympics, a scenario that emphasizes both their love story and athletic rivalry. The couple met during the 2019 World Cup tour, formed a bond during the pandemic, and recently tied the knot in Calgary, illustrating their commitment both as partners and athletes.

Despite coming from different countries, Meilamans and Silveira share a living space in the Olympic village, breaking the norm of athletes sharing rooms with teammates from the same country, as both Olympic committees made accommodations for them. Their personal space reflects a blend of their cultural identities, fostering a supportive environment as they strive for personal and sporting success.

As they prepare for crucial races on Valentine's Day, where the excitement of Olympic competition meets their love for each other, both athletes express a desire for each to perform well. Meilamans emphasizes that every day is somewhat like Valentine's Day for them, melding love with their competitive pursuit in sports. Ultimately, regardless of the outcome, they celebrate their connection and achievements, marking a significant moment for LGBTQ representation in athletics.

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