Hailey Swirbul
Sport: Cross-Country Skiing
Olympic Status: 2022 Olympian; pursuing return for Milano Cortina 2026
Hometown: El Jebel, Colorado
Alaska Connection: Trains and competes with Alaska Pacific University Nordic Ski Center (Anchorage)
Why Hailey Swirbul Matters in Alaska
Hailey Swirbul has been one of the most accomplished American cross-country skiers of her generation. With strong competitive ties to the Alaska Pacific University Nordic Ski Center (APU), she is part of the rich Alaska Nordic tradition that has helped develop elite athletes and multiple Olympians. Although originally from Colorado, her Alaska connection comes through APU and her continued presence in Alaska racing and coaching circles.
Alaska Roots and Connection
- Competes and trains with the Alaska Pacific University Nordic Ski Center in Anchorage, a major hub for U.S. Olympic cross-country skiers.
- Regular participant in Alaska SuperTour and national race circuits.
- Transitioned into coaching and mentoring roles within the APU Nordic community.
Career Highlights
- Represented the United States at the 2022 Winter Olympics in cross-country skiing.
- First individual World Cup podium (3rd place) at the 2020-21 Davos World Cup 10 km race.
- Competed extensively on the FIS World Cup circuit, earning individual and team podiums.
- After stepping away from World Cup racing in 2023, she announced a comeback for the 2025-26 season.
Milano Cortina 2026 Outlook
Hailey Swirbul is eyeing a return to Olympic competition for the 2026 Winter Games. Cross-country skiing at Milano Cortina 2026 takes place from February 7–21, 2026, with events across sprint, classic, and distance formats. (official Olympics schedule)