Reston Teen Bows Out Of The Olympics

It was a whirlwind of emotion for Reston teen Maame Biney, the 18-year-old speedskating phenom who became the first African-American woman in that event in Olympic history. But after coming in last in the 1,500 meters, Biney will be looking ahead to Beijing in 2022 for a chance to win a medal.

After qualifying in the first heat of the 500 meters, a bad start caused Biney to be bumped out of her best event in the quarterfinals. She had another chance to go for a medal in the 1,500 meters, but was not a favorite. She ended up finishing in last.

The normally bubbly 18-year-old, who grew up skating at SkateQuest here in Reston, reportedly was in tears after the 500 meters, knowing she'd likely have to wait another four years to compete for a medal.

But when the 1,500 meters was over and she knew this was the end of her Olympic run, she reportedly broke into a smile.

“I feel very good,” she said according to the Washington Post. “Because now I get to eat whatever I want.”

Image via Team USA