Though NYC is not the ideal place for Olympians in training to live, the Northeast is filled with stellar athletes both on and off their respective “playing field” whether that be an ice rink, a 1,450 meter luge track, a downhill ski slope, an icy halfpipe, or supporting incredible charities, these women have what it takes to be totally CRAVE-worthy.

Hannah Teter- Snowboarding

After overcoming adversity with recovering from two surgeries in 2006, Hannah shocked the world by taking home the gold medal in the halfpipe that same year in the Winter Olympics in Torino.  At age 19, she had accomplished something that few athletes could ever dream of, but a gold medal did not stop her from making a bigger name for herself. Following her win in Torino, Teter founded a charity called Hannah’s Gold, which uses proceeds of maple syrup sales–a Teter family tradition in their home of Vermont–and all of her prize money won at snowboarding events to support a downtrodden village in Kenya.  In the fall of 2008, Hannah made a trip to the village of Kirindon to follow up on her initiative of building schools and digging wells for fresh water.  While there, she stumbled upon a group of women and children afflicted with AIDS who had been abandoned by their husbands and fathers.  As a result, the decision was made to buy land for these women so they could have a place to grow food and support themselves.  In honor of Hannah, Ben & Jerry’s has created a special flavor called Maple Blondie where a portion of the proceeds goes to support Hannah’s Gold.  So grab some yummy ice cream or check out Hannah’s Gold and make a contribution now!

With a story like this, how could you not CRAVE another gold for Hannah.  At age 23, and her second run for Olympic gold, she certainly has our attention and support.

Emily Cook- Freestyle Skiing

This woman has the commitment and the heart of a fighter.  At age 30, Vancouver will be her second Olympic Games, but it has taken her a lot to get here.  With a Gold Cup win in 2002, and a bid for that year’s Olympics, everything seemed to be going right for Cook.  However, two weeks later, in a training jump, she suffered severe injuries to both of her feet requiring multiple surgeries.  Due to the nature of her injuries, Cook was left with the task of not only learning to ski again, but learning to walk.  Though, with the dream of the Olympics still in her mind, she was more determined that ever to make a showing.  With the support of family and friends, she made it to her first Olympics in 2006, and despite a lackluster performance in the skis, her drive to get her there is unforgettable.  This Massachusetts native is considered to be better and stronger than ever, and is seen as a legitimate medal contender this go around.  We’re excited to see her do what was considered the impossible!

Noteworthy:

Keep an eye out for Brooklyn Heights resident, 22 year old Kelli Stack.  See her take to the ice with the womens Ice Hockey team.  We’ll be cheering for you!