Defending Pan American Games gold medalist Joey Mantia (Olympia, Wash.) struck gold in the Men’s Combined Sprint race, earning a perfect total 36 points. He won all three of his races (300m time trial, 1000m combined, 500m time trial) to handily claim the title.

“It feels good, it’s always a good feeling to cross the finish line and know you won,” Mantia said. “Anytime you can represent your country and get a gold medal, it’s just the best feeling ever. I get chills every time I hear the Anthem played. I’m really happy.”

Brittany Bowe (Summerfield, Fla.) claimed her first Pan American Games gold medal, winning all three of her races in the Women’s Combined Sprint race for a total of 36 points (300m time trial, 1000m combined, 500m time trial).

“This is unlike any experience I’ve had,” she explained. “This is a one of a kind championship and I’ve had such a great experience here. This is the closest we get to an Olympics, so it’s a great honor for me to win a gold medal for the U.S.A.”

The third gold medal of the evening went to Jessica Smith (Melvindale, Mich.) in the Women’s Combined Distance race. She earned a total of 34 points for the women’s title after finishing first in the 20K and second in both the 10K and 15K races.

“It was such an exciting race,” Smith said. “The points were pretty close so it made the racing hard, but I just gave it my all and it worked out really well for me. I’m so excited to win a gold medal. This is my first Pan Am Games and I hope to be back for more.”

Jonathan Garcia (Houston, Texas) finished fourth in the Men’s Combined Distance event with a total of 25 points.

“I’m disappointed that I didn’t race better, but it was a good experience,” he said. “I’ve got World Championships coming up so hopefully I’ll do better there.”

The U.S. Inline Roller Team is coached by Rob Dunn. “I’m extremely proud of this team,” he said. “Everyone skated as hard as they possibly could and it’s pretty outstanding to come out with three golds medals.”

Final Results:
Men’s Combined Sprint:
Joey Mantia, 1st place (36 points)

Women’s Combined Sprint:
Brittany Bowe, 1st place (36 points)

Women’s Combined Distance:
Jessica Smith, 1st place (34 points)

Men’s Combined Distance:
Jonathan Garcia, 5th place (25 points)