Who is Ollie Martin? Meet the 17-year-old American Snowboarder making waves at the 2026 Winter Olympics
Oliver Martin of Team United States looks on after his first run during the Men’s Snowboard Big Air Qualification on day minus one of the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympic games at Livigno Snow Park on February 05, 2026 in Livigno, Italy. Image Credit: Michael Reaves/Getty Images
At just 17 years old, Ollie Martin has stepped onto the world’s biggest winter sports stage and proven he belongs. Competing for Team USA at the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics, the Colorado native is already drawing attention as one of American snowboarding’s most exciting young talents, and a name fans are only beginning to learn.
Martin’s Olympic debut in men’s snowboard big air placed him among elite international competitors, advancing to the finals as the only American rider to do so. In a field stacked with veterans and reigning champions, his calm execution and technical mastery signaled a generational shift in U.S. freestyle snowboarding.
Who Is Ollie Martin? The Youngest Rider Redefining Big Air
Born and raised in Wolcott, Colorado, Ollie Martin has been considered a prodigy within snowboarding circles for years. Before turning 18, he accomplished feats many professionals never reach, including becoming the youngest snowboarder to land a 2160-degree spin, and the only rider to successfully land both a frontside and backside 2160.
His rapid ascent through the ranks includes:
- An FIS World Cup slopestyle victory
- Two bronze medals at the Snowboard World Championships
- Multiple podium finishes across elite international competitions
Those credentials earned him a coveted spot on Team USA’s slopestyle and big air roster for the 2026 Games.
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Olympic Debut in Livigno: A Statement Performance
Competing under the lights at Livigno Snow Park, Martin delivered when it mattered most. While several seasoned American riders failed to advance, the teenager finished ninth among qualifiers, securing a place in Saturday’s final.
Japan dominated the leaderboard, and defending Olympic champion Su Yiming of China advanced comfortably, yet Martin’s performance stood out for its composure. Against a backdrop of Olympic pressure and global scrutiny, he rode with confidence, a trait often reserved for athletes far beyond their teenage years.
Standing Tall as the Lone American Finalist
The men’s snowboard big air qualification proved unforgiving. Established U.S. names, including Olympic gold medalist Red Gerard, missed out on finals amid criticism of the Olympic format that forces athletes to compete across disciplines.
That context made Martin’s advancement even more notable. As the youngest rider in the field and the sole American finalist, he carried the flag alone, a role that underscored both his resilience and growing leadership within the team.
More Than a Medal Run: Why Ollie Martin Matters
While medals define Olympic legacies, impact defines careers, and Martin’s influence is already being felt. His presence represents:
- A new generation of American snowboarders
- Technical progression in big air and slopestyle
- Renewed optimism for Team USA’s freestyle future
Veteran riders and coaches alike have praised his fearlessness and creativity, traits essential for pushing the sport forward.
What’s Next for Ollie Martin After Big Air?
Martin’s Olympic journey is far from over. Attention now turns to men’s slopestyle, scheduled for February 16, where his versatility could prove decisive. Unlike some specialists, Martin thrives across multiple disciplines, a rare advantage at Olympic level.
Win or lose, his Milan-Cortina debut has already cemented his status as one of America’s most promising winter sports athletes.
FAQ
How old is Ollie Martin?
Ollie Martin is 17 years old, making him one of the youngest competitors in Olympic snowboarding at the 2026 Winter Games.
Where is Ollie Martin from?
He hails from Wolcott, Colorado, a region known for producing elite winter sports athletes.
What events is Ollie Martin competing in at the Olympics?
Martin is competing in men’s snowboard big air and is also scheduled for men’s slopestyle at Milan-Cortina 2026.
Did Ollie Martin qualify for the big air finals?
Yes. He finished ninth in qualification, becoming the only American snowboarder to advance to the big air finals.
Why is Ollie Martin considered special?
He is the youngest rider ever to land a 2160 spin and the only snowboarder to land both frontside and backside 2160s in competition.
Has Ollie Martin won major competitions before the Olympics?
Yes. He has won an FIS World Cup slopestyle event and earned two World Championship bronze medals.
Is Ollie Martin expected to medal?
While medals are unpredictable, experts see Martin as a future Olympic medal contender with long-term potential.