By Rob Potter
CALLICOON — January 29, 2010 — When the 2010 Winter Olympics begin next month in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada, people throughout the nation will be cheering for the American athletes competing against other elite athletes from around the world.
Residents of Sullivan County have an extra reason to cheer for Jake Zamansky, who is a member of the U.S. Olympic Ski Team. His parents, David and Diane Zamansky, now live in Carbondale, Colo., but are former residents of Liberty.
In addition, 28-year-old Jake Zamansky is the grandson of the late Hyman and Irene Zamansky and great-nephew of Della Smalls of Monticello.
Jake Zamansky, who specializes in the giant slalom, currently lives and trains in Park City, Utah.
Naturally, his parents, sister Korinna, and other family members are very proud to have an Olympian in the family.
“It’s pretty exciting,” David Zamansky said in a telephone interview on Wednesday. “It’s been a long road of ups and downs. But Jake has stayed positive and has always worked hard to meet his goals. This opportunity is what he is focused on now.”
The opening ceremonies for the Winter Olympics will be held on Friday, Feb. 12. Competition in alpine skiing events begins on Saturday, Feb. 13. The games will be televised by NBC, CNBC, MSNBC, USA, UHD and Universal Sports.