Pa. grandmother Michelle Rohl finishes third in 20K race walking event at US Olympic Trials

A Pennsylvania grandmother made a remarkable comeback at the US Olympics’ Team trials, finishing third in a race walking event after a 20-year hiatus from the sport. Michelle Rohl, 58, secured third place in the 20,000-kilometer race walking event in Springfield, Oregon with a time of 1:42:17.

The bronze medal achievement marked a stunning return for Rohl, who had retired from the sport to homeschool her five children, who are now all grown.

Rohl’s return to competition came three months after the birth of her first grandchild. Despite facing challenges like a concussion and knee pain, Rohl trained diligently for the trials.

She exhibited resilience by continuing to push forward, even after a recent fall that resulted in a chin injury. Rohl, a four-time US champion in the 20K race walk, participated in three Olympics in 1992, 1996, and 2000.

Although Rohl did not meet the Olympic standard time, she expressed gratitude for the opportunity to compete again. She reflected on her journey from being a distance runner in college to becoming a race walker due to injuries.

Robyn Stevens claimed first place and Miranda Melville took second in the 20,000-meter race walk at the trials. Despite not qualifying for the Olympics, Rohl embraced the experience and the support of her family.

“My middle daughter pointed out how my athletic journey evolved with motherhood. I was ready for a break, but now I’m back and embracing this phase of my life,” Rohl shared.