Kip competed in the 2002 Winter Games in Kearns, Utah, as well as the 2006 Winter Games in Torino, Italy, winning a bronze medal in the 500 meter race at the 2002 games, while also skating the fastest lap in Olympic history in the 500 meter race with a time of 24.87 for 400 meters. As a member of the US long track Sprint Team, he had multiple top 10 finishes at the World Single Distance Championships and the World Spring Championships during the 2003-2006 seasons.
“No one really stands on the podium alone and the experience of being inducted into the Hall of Fame for me is no different,” Kip said. “I am humbled by the nomination and selection.”
Kip started skating at age four with his brother Cory on a home-made rink in their backyard. Although he started in Short Track, he transitioned in 1998 to Long track, working with US National Long Track coach Ryan Shimabukuro.
“Kip was a fun skater to coach because he always brought a lot of levity to the team, wherever he was but also remained focused on getting the job done,” said Shimabukuro. “As talented as he was, he never took it for granted. He worked hard and was meticulous about his equipment. It was a sad day when he was forced to retire prematurely due to a prolonged back injury, but I was so happy that he decided to redirect his energy and focus and give pack to the sport as a coach.” Shimabukuro added, “Thank you Kip, for all you’ve done and continue to do for the sport. It’s greatly appreciated!”
His teammate Joey Cheek said, “When Kip switched from short track to long track he redefined wshat sprint technique should look like. When he joined a bunch of scrappy underdogs in Salt Lake City, he set the standard for what excellence is on the ice. His accomplishments speak for themselves; he’s a leader and without Kip Carpenter as my teammate, I don’t think I ever would have seen the Olympic Podium.”
After Kip retired from competition, he continued to stay involved in the speed skating community. He went on to coach at two Olympic Games during the 2010 and 2014 Winter Games. In 2018, with his brother and fellow Olympian Cory Carpenter, and sister-in-law Kristin Carpenter, he started his own speed skating boot company, Carpenter Boot Company.
“What an honor to learn that I have been selected to be inducted into the USS Hall of Fame,” Kip said. “For me, this experience will be full circle. The results I have achieved in this sport could not have happened without the essential support from USS along with family, teammates, and friends. I am and will always be forever grateful for the selfless dedication of the many individuals that stood behind me as I chased after my Olympic dreams.”