Jordan Stolz Embraces Unique Flower Hat Tradition in Olympic Speedskating Quest
U.S. speedskater Jordan Stolz, fresh off a gold medal victory in the Winter Olympics 1,000 meters, might soon don a distinctive flower hat again as he chases Olympic immortality. This congratulatory chapeau, crafted and tossed to winners by a dedicated Dutch fan, has become a symbol of triumph in speedskating circles.
A Hat with Rules and Rituals
According to Jordan's parents, Dirk and Jane Stolz, the hat comes with specific traditions. "They must throw it out for the Olympic champion," Dirk Stolz explained to the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. Jane Stolz added, "I never remember a woman wearing it," highlighting its unique role. However, the privilege is fleeting; athletes must return it after a brief moment of glory. "Wear it once, get some pictures of it and that's it," Jane noted, emphasizing the hat's ceremonial nature.
Jordan Stolz invokes flower power by putting on a hat made for winners by a fan. China News Service via Getty Images
Chasing Eric Heiden's Legendary Record
Watching from the stands was Eric Heiden, the only speedskater to win five gold medals at a single Olympics, who witnessed Stolz's record-breaking performance. While Stolz cannot match Heiden's total of five golds due to having one fewer event, he could become the first male speedskater to secure exactly four golds in the same Games. This pursuit adds three more potential opportunities for Stolz to wear the flower hat, each victory bringing him closer to a historic achievement.
Hat Traditions Across Sports
Sports are rich with hat-related customs that unite fans and athletes. In baseball, the rally cap sees players or fans turn their caps inside out to spur a comeback. On the ice, hockey fans celebrate a hat trick—when a player scores three goals—by tossing hats onto the rink. Stolz's journey mirrors this concept; he is essentially a hat trick of victories away from cementing his place in Olympic lore, blending personal ambition with broader sporting rituals.
As Stolz continues his Olympic campaign, the flower hat serves as a poignant reminder of the fleeting yet powerful moments that define athletic greatness, connecting him to a legacy of champions while he carves out his own path in speedskating history.
