Twins fans had their Homer Hanky. Now Olympics fans can have a go-for-the gold blanket.
Starting with the 2022 Winter Olympics in China and running through the 2028 games in Los Angeles, the Team USA Blanket Collection will be the official woolen blanket of the U.S. Olympics and Paralympics.
Designed and made in Minnesota by Faribault Woolen Mill, the collection includes three distinct designs of throws, with logos, stripes and stars. Weighing just over 2 pounds and measuring 42 by 65 inches, they're a little more unwieldy than the sporting hankies, better perhaps for snuggling up in to watch, say, curling or long-track speed skating.
Blankets aren't the only thing Minnesota is sending to the games. The state will be represented by 30 athletes, including cross-country skier Jessie Diggins and curling's John Shuster, both of whom brought home gold medals four years ago. And between the men's and women's hockey teams, there are almost enough players to form an all-Minnesota team.
Faribault Woolen Mill spokesman Rick Dow said the blankets aren't a limited edition, but are somewhat "constrained production-wise because we are a small company."
The blankets, retailing for $245 each, are available at the company's stores or online at U.S. Olympic Team Throw Blankets – Faribault Mill.
