People
February 6, 2026
Union Pacific: Cheering on U.S. Athletes in 2026 Winter Olympics
It turns out Olympic athletes and Union Pacific railroaders share a key operating trait: the relentless pursuit of excellence.
A trio of U.S. speed skaters favored to win gold in the men’s Team Pursuit in the upcoming 2026 Winter Olympics in Italy say even after they won the World Cup last winter, they discussed ways to improve their performance.
“We’re always searching for that perfect race,” said Emery Lehman, 29, a speed skater from Oak Park, Illinois, competing in his fourth Olympics.
Union Pacific is an official sponsor of US Speedskating, the organization dedicated to supporting speed skaters from local clubs to the Olympics. The two iconic brands share similar values and a passion for winning, including a belief that every day is a new day to strive to be the fastest and the safest.
“We are so proud of all the speed skaters representing America in this year’s Winter Olympics, and we will be cheering them on to the finish line,” said Union Pacific CEO Jim Vena. “We understand the dedication and commitment required to be the best and to deliver the goods for fans and customers.”
Thirteen men and women will represent the U.S. in speed skating at the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics, while eight will represent the U.S. in short track events. In speed skating events, athletes race against the clock, with the fastest time winning the event. In short track, four to six competitors compete at the same time, with the winner progressing to the next round.
Opening ceremonies are set to start Feb. 6, and numerous Americans are favored to win gold, including rising stars Jordan Stolz and Erin Jackson. In addition, three men competing together in Team Pursuit – a speed skating event – are this year’s favorites after setting a new world record at the World Cup in Team Pursuit and taking home bronze in the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing.
Team Pursuit is a synchronized race with three skaters in a vertical line racing around the rink, the first skater serving as the wind break while the second and third skaters push from behind.
It’s a sport that requires intense coordination and teamwork and can resemble a train in many ways.
“When we’re skating together and it’s fully fluid and just flowing – and the three of us are moving together perfectly – it feels like we’re on rails and we’re flying,” said Ethan Cepuran, 25, the “caboose” from Glen Ellyn, Illinois.
Casey Dawson from Kearns, Utah, is the “lead locomotive” in this three-man unit train, serving as its eyes and operator. He remembers watching opening ceremonies in his youth and dreaming of walking into the arena, representing his country.
“It’s a full-circle moment to watch it on TV and now be on TV,” said Dawson, 25. “When we skate, we represent more than ourselves, we represent the coaches, our team, and our friends and family who helped us get there.”
Lehman, the “middle car” in the skate train, is making his fourth Olympic appearance.
“We live our lives in four-year increments, and to do it on the world’s biggest stage is incredibly special,” said Lehman, who may be skating in his last Olympics. “It’s bittersweet, but I’m excited to skate and prolong it as much as possible.”
Despite an impressive record, including four consecutive World Cup titles and two world records, this trio of athletes is taking nothing for granted in Italy.
“We have to keep striving, we have to keep showing up every day and make the most of every moment,” said Cepuran. “We can’t be content. Every time we step on the ice, we want to win.”
The same goes for railroaders – every day is a chance to win on the rails.
“We wish every skater the best meet of their life,” said Vena.
Visit the Union Pacific Company Store to pick up new Union Pacific + US Speedskating merch.