Elana Meyers Taylor: 41 & Fierce on the Bobsled Track, 'E-Money' Ready for Gold
At 41 years young, U.S. Olympic bobsledder Elana Meyers Taylor is not just competing; she's aiming to dominate. Heading into her fifth Winter Games at the Milan Cortina 2026 Olympics, Taylor, already the most decorated female bobsledder and Black Winter Olympian in history, carries an unwavering confidence. Her nickname, "E-Money," isn't just a catchy moniker; it's a testament to her proven ability to perform when the stakes are highest. "I'm money under pressure," Taylor told NBC News, a statement that encapsulates her seasoned approach to the high-octane world of bobsledding.
Defying Age and Expectations
Taylor's journey to the pinnacle of bobsledding is a story of resilience, adaptation, and a relentless pursuit of excellence. Her current standing, even after a challenging lead-up season marked by chronic back pain and a significant crash in Switzerland, only highlights her mental fortitude. While some might view her age as a barrier in a sport demanding explosive power and speed, Taylor sees it as an advantage, armed with invaluable experience and a deep understanding of her capabilities.
A Legacy of Medals, A Quest for Gold
Her Olympic medal collection is impressive: bronze in the two-woman bobsled at Vancouver 2010, silver in Sochi 2014 and PyeongChang 2018, and a repeat of bronze in the two-woman event alongside silver in the monobob at Beijing 2022. Yet, a coveted Olympic gold medal has remained just out of reach. This time, as she's currently positioned just 0.22 seconds from the gold medal position with two heats remaining, the dream feels closer than ever. Taylor's gaze is fixed on those top podium spots, driven by an internal motivation that transcends personal accolades.
Maternal Motivation and Inspiring the Next Generation
Beyond the medals and the records, Taylor's most profound motivation stems from her two young sons, Nico, 5, and Noah, 3. Both her sons are deaf, and Nico also has Down syndrome. They will be in Cortina, Italy, cheering her on from the stands. Taylor openly shares her desire to show them, and the world, that perceived limitations are merely challenges to be overcome. "Nobody in their right mind would say, ‘Hey, a 41-year-old woman is going to have a shot at another Olympic medal in a speed and power sport,’" she reflected. "I want my children to know that people told their mom that it can’t happen and then she went for it anyways." This powerful narrative of a mother athlete demonstrating perseverance and proving doubters wrong is a profound legacy in itself.
From Softball Fields to Icy Tracks
Taylor's path to bobsledding was as unexpected as it was successful. A standout collegiate softball player at George Washington University, where she was an All-American pitcher and shortstop, a disastrous tryout for the U.S. Olympic softball team in 2007 left her Olympic aspirations in doubt. However, a suggestion from her parents, who saw bobsledding on television, opened a new door. The transition from the dirt infield to the icy track was surprisingly smooth, showcasing her natural athleticism and adaptability. This pivot demonstrates a remarkable ability to reinvent herself and pursue new dreams with the same intensity.
The 'E-Money' Mindset: Trusting the Process
The "E-Money" moniker is more than just confidence; it's a deep-seated belief in her training, her skills, and her ability to execute under immense pressure. This mindset is crucial in bobsledding, where split-second decisions and flawless execution can mean the difference between victory and defeat. Taylor's calm demeanor, even after facing significant adversity, speaks volumes about her mental preparation. She trusts her instincts, her physical conditioning, and her years of experience to guide her down the track.
Looking Ahead: The Olympic Stage Awaits
As the competition unfolds, all eyes will be on Elana Meyers Taylor. Her presence on the Olympic stage at 41, competing at the highest level, is an inspiration to athletes of all ages and backgrounds. Her story is a powerful reminder that with dedication, resilience, and a belief in oneself, even the most ambitious dreams are within reach. The Australian bobsledding community, like many others worldwide, will undoubtedly be watching with admiration as this extraordinary athlete continues to push the boundaries of what's possible.