Milan, Feb. 7 (LaPresse) – “For me, Milan-Cortina was the opportunity to show that I could be a mother and win a gold medal, to be stronger. This gold is first and foremost for myself, because I have shown that even if it’s not easy, you can be a mother and a top athlete.” This is what Francesca Lollobrigida said during the press conference after winning the gold medal in the 3,000 meters speed skating at the Milan-Cortina Olympics.
“I had watched the Turin Olympics in 2006 but only experienced the atmosphere of Italy’s victory. Now I have to say thank you to my father, who encouraged me to start skating. It wasn’t easy, especially this season, because I arrived here in less-than-optimal condition. But my family, the federation, and Merchetto always pushed me not to give up,” she added.
“Motherhood has certainly changed me, because the most beautiful victories came as a mother. I rediscovered myself as an athlete and as a woman, but alone I couldn’t have done anything,” Lollobrigida continued.
“There is an enormous team effort behind this, but extending my career, I don’t know. I love skating and I think I’ve shown that; I’m the first to enter and leave the track because I enjoy it, but living away at least 200 days a year and staying in hotels isn’t easy. My son came with me, but he needs nursery care, so I had to leave him with my husband. That is the hardest part. My goal was a bronze medal; that’s what I told my husband before the race. But I am someone who likes to fight.”