Sophia Kirkby places 5th in Olympic luge debut

Feb. 11, 2026

SARANAC LAKE -- North Country Community College proudly congratulates Sophia Kirkby of Ray Brook on an outstanding performance at the 2026 Winter Olympic Games in Milano Cortina, where she placed fifth in the women’s doubles luge competition — marking her first appearance at the Olympic Games.

Kirkby graduated from NCCC in December 2025 with an Associate Degree in Business Administration, balancing her academic pursuits with elite athletic training. Her athletic journey has been marked by perseverance and dedication, rising through the ranks of USA Luge to compete on the world stage alongside doubles partner Chevonne Forgan.

The women’s doubles luge made its Olympic debut in Cortina d’Ampezzo, and Kirkby’s fifth-place finish reflects both her competitive spirit and her status as one of the sport’s leading young athletes.

A native of Ray Brook and resident of the Lake Placid region, Kirkby began luge at a young age with the Adirondack Luge Club and has competed internationally for many years. In addition to her athletic accomplishments, she is known for her creativity and entrepreneurial interests, including ceramics and handcrafted Olympic pins — pursuits she has balanced alongside her academic and athletic career.

NCCC celebrates Sophia Kirkby’s Olympic success and the inspiration she brings to current and future students pursuing excellence in any field.