Fri Feb 06 19:50:00 UTC 2026: ### Southington Native Austin Florian to Compete in 2026 Winter Olympics

The Story:
Southington, Connecticut is celebrating one of its own as Austin Florian, 31, prepares to compete in skeleton at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina, Italy, scheduled from February 6 to February 22. Florian’s journey to the Olympics began on local ski slopes and evolved through a chance encounter with land luge during visits to Lake Placid. His success highlights a blend of early athletic versatility and focused training, culminating in a gold medal at the IBSF World Championships in 2025.

Key Points:
* Austin Florian, 31, of Southington, CT, will compete in skeleton at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano-Cortina, Italy.
* Florian began skiing at age 2 and competed in ski racing by age 6.
* He was a multi-sport athlete in high school and skied for Clarkson University.
* Florian tried “land luge” in Lake Placid and later entered an open tryout for U.S. sliding sports.
* He won a gold medal in mixed team skeleton at the IBSF World Championships in 2025.
* The mixed team skeleton event is making its Olympic debut at the 2026 Winter Games.
* Connecticut Governor Ned Lamont and Lt. Governor Susan Bysiewicz expressed their support for Florian and other Connecticut athletes.
* Other Connecticut athletes competing include Olivia Giaccio (freestyle skiing), Kristen Santos-Griswold (speedskating), and Tage Thompson (ice hockey).

Key Takeaways:

  • Austin Florian’s participation in the 2026 Winter Olympics underscores the importance of early athletic development and exposure to diverse sports.
  • The introduction of the mixed team skeleton event at the Olympics signifies a growing evolution within winter sports programming and inclusivity.
  • Government support for local athletes competing on the international stage enhances community pride and promotes sports participation.
  • Clarkson University is mentioned in the historical context.

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