Tucker Fredricks

Local Look

Tucker Fredricks wanted to play hockey. His father was among those with other ideas. So even though Fredricks began skating grudgingly, he soon found that his speed translated into speedskating success better than his 5-foot-6 frame served him in hockey.

Now the Janesville native is the American record-holder in the 500m and after claiming the top spot at the Olympic Trials in Milwaukee in October, he is poised to battle for a medal. Tucker placed 25th in the 2006 Olympics, but says that disappointment made it clear that he must focus more on the details to move up the standings. Emboldened by his showing at the Olympic Trials, Fredricks hopes to join the long list of Wisconsin speedskating medalists.