Women in the world of sports media often walk a tightrope and are often demonized for their looks. But, there are some who have broken the glass ceiling. Linda Cohn, a trailblazer at ESPN, is one example of this. Cohn, who was first hired by ESPN in 1992 has become one of the network’s most versatile personalities.
Danica Patrick
Danica Patrick, a NASCAR race driver, is an award-winning driver. She has won many championships and been named the sport’s most-loved driver several times. Danica is also a fitness enthusiast, and a philanthropist. Danica's sexy personality, fit body and devoted fan base have made her a favorite.
Patrick started her career racing karts. In 2005, she was the youngest person to win Indianapolis 500. She remains the only female driver who has won the IndyCar Series. She continues to set female sports records.
Lindsey Vonn
Lindsey Vonn has a long history as a skier and an athlete of international standing. She is one of the most decorated women in the history of the sport. She has won many international titles, including the Downhill World Championships, three consecutive world championships, and the overall World Cup Championship. She is also an example for women in sport.
Lindsey Vonn was a Minnesota native who began skiing at a young age. She began competing in races at age seven and soon made it to international competitions. She participated in World Junior Championships as well as World Cup events and was crowned World Cup champion in 2004. Vonn was awarded the overall World Cup title in 2008, and again in 2010.
Michelle Kwan
Michelle Kwan's interest in figure skating began at a young age. She first discovered figure skating when she was five. Danny and Estella Kwan were Chinese immigrants. They met at a school reunion. Her father was a phone company employee, and her mom ran the Golden Pheasant restaurant near Torrance, California. Michelle began serious training when she was eight years old. She would practice for 3-4 hours each day. Her family was unable to afford the time commitment.
Kwan hired Rafael Arutyunyan in 2003 as her coach. The pair skated to "The Feeling Begins" for the short program and "Tosca" for the long program. At the U.S. Championships, Kwan tied Maribel Vinson-Owen's record for U.S. women's figure skating with nine titles. Kwan qualified for the Olympic Games, Turin, Italy in the following year. She competed under a new system of judging. Kwan lost to a triple salchow, and two-footed with a triple lutz at the World Championships.
Cari Champion
Cari Champion, a prominent broadcast reporter, is well-known in sports. She is also the co-anchor of ESPN's noon show. She has extensive broadcast journalism experience and is well-versed in sports. She will be speaking on the 2019 program track, "Pushing the Limits in Human Performance".
Cari Champion grew up in Pasadena, California, and attended UCLA. She has one older sister, and two younger siblings. She has never been married, and she is not in a relationship with anyone.
Li Na
Li Na is a prominent Chinese tennis player. As the daughter of an Olympic athlete, her dreams were thwarted by political strife, she rose from humble beginnings. Now, she is one of the world's best tennis players and one of the richest women. Most of her Chinese compatriots hadn't seen her play before her fame.
She is well-known for her self-confidence as well as her ability inspire young Chinese. Her work goes beyond sports. Li Na, a cultural entrepreneur and influential figure in China, is also influencing Chinese society.