U.S. bobsledder Azaria Hill comes a rich bloodline of Olympians - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Kevin Baxter

February 19, 2026

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U.S. bobsledder Azaria Hill represents a powerful legacy of Olympic achievement that runs deep in her family. Growing up in a household of Olympians, Hill’s father Virgil won a silver medal in boxing at the 1984 Games, while her mother Denean Howard earned multiple medals as part of the track and field team. Building on this foundation, Hill followed a unique path to the Winter Olympics after transitioning from track sprinting to bobsled—a decision that ultimately fulfilled her Olympic aspirations. Hill’s journey began when her college teammate, Kaysha Love, encouraged her to try bobsledding after struggling to achieve top times in track. Despite initial doubts, Hill excelled at rookie camps and quickly earned spots on World Cup teams. By December 2023, she had secured a place as brakewoman for Love, leading to her historic Olympic debut. Jadin O’Brien’s rise to the sport was equally swift and unexpected. After excelling in track and field but missing out on an Olympic berth, O’Brien took up bobsledding at the urging of five-time Olympian Elana Meyers Taylor. Within months, she earned a spot as Meyers Taylor’s brakewoman and proved her mettle in World Cup competition. Both women highlight the adaptability required to thrive in sports and the importance of mentorship in navigating new opportunities. Their stories not only continue family legacies but also demonstrate how athletes can pivot successfully in their careers, inspiring others to explore diverse paths in pursuit of their Olympic goals.

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Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/19/2026