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Sun Jan 11 01:30:00 UTC 2026: Headline: Chock and Bates Aim for Olympic Gold, Relationship a Driving Force
The Story:
Three-time defending world ice dance champions Madison Chock and Evan Bates are setting their sights on the 2026 Winter Olympics, revealing that their partnership on and off the ice has strengthened their resolve. As they potentially head into their final Olympics together, the married couple emphasize that their relationship has become the primary focus, with skating serving as a means to deepen their bond and navigate life’s experiences. Having consistently placed in the top three at the U.S. Championships since 2012, they are now poised to make a strong push for Olympic gold.
Key Points:
* Madison Chock and Evan Bates, married ice dancers, are preparing for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
* They are the three-time defending world champions in ice dance.
* Their relationship has strengthened over time, shifting their focus from solely skating to prioritizing their bond.
* They started skating together in 2011 and began dating in 2017.
* The 2026 Olympics could be their last chance to win gold as a pair.
* Beyond skating, Bates plays guitar, and Chock designs costumes for themselves and other skaters.
Key Takeaways:
* The enduring partnership of Chock and Bates underscores the impact of personal relationships on athletic performance.
* Their longevity in a youth-dominated sport highlights dedication and adaptability.
* The couple’s integrated personal and professional lives create a powerful synergy.