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Eric HeidenAmerican speed skater and cyclist, medic
Date of Birth: 14.06.1958
Country:  USA |
Content:
- Biography of Eric Heiden
- Speed Skating Career
- Cycling Career
- Medical Career
- Author and Medical Achievements
Biography of Eric Heiden
Eric Heiden, an American speed skater and cyclist, was born in Madison, Wisconsin. He grew up in a family of athletes, with his father being a cyclist and fencer, and his mother being involved in swimming, tennis, and cycling. Heiden started his sports career at a young age, trying out various sports, including hockey, before ultimately focusing on speed skating.
Speed Skating Career
Despite a relatively short career in speed skating, Heiden achieved impressive results. He won three World Championships in the all-around event and four World Championships in sprint. He also set multiple world records in distances such as 1000 meters, 3000 meters, 1500 meters, and 10000 meters. Heiden also holds the record for the highest points in sprint and all-around events. His last major speed skating competition was in 1980, where he finished second in the World Championships in all-around.
Cycling Career
After retiring from speed skating, Heiden turned to cycling and became one of the founders of the '7-Eleven Cycling Team.' He achieved success in American competitions and also competed in European tournaments, including participating in Giro d'Italia in 1985 and Tour de France in 1986. However, he was unable to complete the Tour de France, withdrawing from the race five days before the finish.
Medical Career
While pursuing his cycling career, Heiden also focused on furthering his education. He earned a bachelor's degree from Stanford University in 1984 and a master's degree in 1991. He later completed a course in orthopedics at the University of California, Davis, and practiced as an orthopedic doctor in Birmingham, Alabama, before returning to California. He worked as a team physician for the NBA's Sacramento Kings and the WNBA's Sacramento Monarchs. He also served as the team physician for the U.S. Olympic speed skating team in 2002, 2006, and 2010.
Author and Medical Achievements
In 2008, Heiden published a book titled "Faster, Better, Stronger" which focuses on the scientific approach to sports training. In 2009, he was part of the medical team that successfully treated American speed skater J.R. Celski's severe leg injury before the 2010 Winter Olympics. Celski went on to win two bronze medals at the Olympics, thanks to the efforts of the medical team.
Currently, Heiden practices as an orthopedic doctor in Murray, Utah. Throughout his career, Heiden has demonstrated his passion and dedication to various professions, leaving a lasting impact in the world of sports and medicine.
