Image by Flickr user hans s

Two Carolinians U.S. Winter Olympic teammates will make their debut today in the women's speedskating 500 meters event.

The two ladies, Rock Hill's Lauren Cholewinski, 21, and High Point's Heather Richardson, 20, aren't expected to win a medal, but are thrilled to be representing their country and the Carolinas in the 2010 Winter Olympics.

The Charlotte Observer had a chance to talk to the two young skaters before they hit the ice. Hop on over and read all about them.