Hi Star Tribune readers!

I am one of your Minnesotan Olympians competing in the Ladies 1000m Olympic Long Track Speedskating event this month on the 18th. Competing in the Olympics has been a life long dream and what a journey it has been. Through blood, sweat, tears, surgery, injury, failure and success I'm finally here today in Vancouver, Canada. In fact, I just arrived with my team today. This past month since Olympic trials I focused more on preparing and training I haven't really celebrated the fact that I will be representing Team USA. It didn't hit me until my team and I were guided off the plane and handed our credentials today. I've had a huge grin on my face since!

Well Star Tribune readers, I'm most excited to update you throughout the Games. I would like to invite you to two websites: www.facebook.com/pages/Rebekah-Bradford/264501848169and www.beyondtheultimate.org/athletes/Rebekah-Bradford.aspx

Happy reading, stay warm and thank you for your support!