Oksana Masters has clinched her 11th Paralympic gold medal, a significant victory in the women's sprint sitting discipline of Para cross-country skiing at the Milan Cortina Games. The win represents redemption for the most decorated American Winter Paralympian, who narrowly missed gold in the same event four years prior.
Masters described the victory as a profound relief, stating, "It was the one that got away. I love sprints and I hate sprints because there's so much stress." She added, "I struggle with believing in myself and that was a big thing. The team believed in me, so I wanted to show up for my team."
Trailing her competitor by 40 meters on the final incline, Masters mounted a powerful surge to overtake Kim at the summit. "I hate chasing. I would rather be chased, but I do realize that I do well with chasing and reeling people in, one by one, staying smooth and relaxed," Masters commented.
This marks Masters' second gold medal at the Milan Cortina Games, following her victory in Para biathlon. The 36-year-old athlete overcame a challenging season that included surgery, a bone infection, and a concussion.
Masters now holds seven Winter Paralympic golds and four from the Summer Paralympics, having competed since 2012 in Para cycling, Para rowing, Para cross-country, and Para biathlon. Her overall medal count stands at 21.