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Silver Medalist Visits Local Family (February 17)
On the evening of February 15, the Kitazawa family of Suzaka City got a surprise visit from Susan Auch, who had won the silver medal the day before in the women's 500-meter speed skating competition. Eberhard and Rosemary, Susan's parents, are enjoying a homestay with the Kitazawas during the Olympic Games; but the family didn't expect to meet the skater herself.After Susan took second place in her event, Susumu and Makiko Kitazawa planned a party to celebrate her success with Mr. and Mrs. Auch. They were happily surprised on Sunday night when Susan showed up at the door with her parents. Makiko, who prepared all the food for the celebration, was very excited: "I had no idea Susan would be there until I saw her at the front door. It's like a dream!" The Kitazawas' relatives who had come for the party were also thrilled she could make it.
They all took turns touching Susan's silver medal and cheered as they watched a video of her performance in Saturday's race. Susan, who had been nervous about her event and hadn't been out of the Olympic Village very much, was also happy to be in the friendly home of the Kitazawas. "I finally feel like I can relax. I want to enjoy myself tonight," she smiled. (Shinano Mainichi Shimbun)
Silver medalist Susan Auch enjoys her party with the Kitazawa family.