Feb 15 • 23:04 UTC 🇦🇺 Australia ABC News AU

Quick hits: Dads dominate the dual dais ahead of winter weather warning

At the 2026 Winter Olympics, three fathers earn medals in dual moguls amid a challenging weather forecast prompting reschedules.

During the ninth day of the Milano Cortina Games, the dual moguls competition was marked by an unusual 'dad podium', featuring three fathers among the medallists. Australian skier Matt Graham, who is a two-time Winter Olympic medallist, expressed the joys of parenting as a source of motivation for his performance, securing a bronze medal in dual moguls to add to his silver from the 2018 Games. The achievement was made even more meaningful as he stood alongside Mikael Klingsbury, the gold medallist, and Ikuma Horishima, who took home the silver, both of whom share the experiences of traveling and competing as parents.

The weather in the lead-up to the event was described as 'unfavourable', with forecasts impacting the scheduling at the Winter Olympics. Given the unpredictable conditions, adjustments were made, prompting discussions about how weather can play a crucial role in Olympic events. Athletes, weather conditions, and careful planning must all come together, especially as families and personal relationships become increasingly intertwined with professional commitments in high-stakes sports environments like the Olympics.

As the Games continue, the focus on fatherhood has added a unique narrative to the competitions, showcasing the challenges and triumphs of balancing family life with Olympic aspirations. Matt Graham's podium finish serves to emphasize how personal and professional lives can intertwine, influencing not only the athlete's motivation but also the perception of Olympic competitors as relatable figures for audiences, particularly those who are parents themselves.

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