SALT LAKE CITY — Todd Brickson has always been there to witness Breezy Johnson’s accomplishments, even from the junior level, starting at the age of 14.
“She was on the podium at Whistler Cup, which was an International Children's competition in Whistler, Canada,” he said.
However, on Sunday, he was able to witness 30-year-old Johnson bring home Team USA’s first gold medal at the 2026 Olympics. “I'm so happy for Breezy. We knew she had a really good shot at it today,” he said, "the coolest thing about Breezy is that she really obviously steps up for the big races. She was a two-time world champion last winter and now an Olympic gold medal. We couldn't be happier for her.”
Johnson is originally from Wyoming, but moved to Salt Lake and attended Rowland Hall in 2009, where she trained at the Rowmark Ski Academy. “[Johnson] went on to qualify at a very young age to the US Ski Team,” Brickson said.
Brickson said she was the hardest worker on the team. “She always put in the extra work, first one be there, last one to leave, and was always looking to make herself better,” he said.
That work ethic and determination shone through, even during challenging moments in her career. “She missed the previous Olympics due to a knee injury, and she's had several injuries along the way, which is not uncommon in this sport. So, to see her persevere and to break through at this point, it's just really thrilling,” Brickson said.
Johnson won the gold on Sunday in the downhill competition. “It's the fastest, arguably the most dangerous... big flowing 70/80/90 degree turns,” Brickson said, “what she did this morning is just remarkable.”
Brickson still texts Johnson after her competitions, but as a former coach, there’s one part that shines more than the gold. “It's not so much about the results. It's about the kids' hard work and seeing the pride that they get from working so hard and accomplishing a goal. That's what really matters,” he said.
Rowland Hall released the following statement on Sunday, “Everyone at Rowland Hall is incredibly proud of alumna Breezy Johnson on her gold medal win today. Breezy’s achievement on the world stage reflects the perseverance, discipline, and courage that define champions. Her success is an inspiration to our entire community and a powerful reminder of what is possible when passion is matched with commitment.”
The Rowmark Ski Academy is also celebrating in the following statement, "Rowland Hall and Rowmark Ski Academy are incredibly proud and excited to celebrate the extraordinary achievements of Breezy Johnson and her impact on both the United States and our Rowland Hall community. Over many years, Breezy has demonstrated exceptional dedication to her craft, committing herself fully to improving her physical strength, mental resilience, and technical mastery of ski racing."
Johnson is expected to have two more races coming up, the combined team race on Tuesday and the Super-G race on Thursday.
