The city of Eastvale is joining the nation in celebrating a historic achievement by hometown standout Cayla Barnes, who helped lead Team USA to a dramatic gold medal victory at the Winter Olympics.
Barnes, competing in her third Olympic Games (2018, 2022 and 2026), was part of the American squad that secured a thrilling 2-1 overtime win over Canada in Thursday’s championship matchup.
Canada controlled much of the game and carried a narrow lead late into regulation. Hilary Knight, serving as Team USA’s captain, delivered a clutch goal in the closing minutes to force overtime. In the extra period, Megan Keller found the net to clinch the victory and bring home the gold.
Canada’s lone goal came from Kristin O’Neill, who scored shorthanded in the second period — a lead that held until the final stretch of regulation.
For Barnes, the 2026 triumph adds to an already impressive Olympic résumé. She previously earned gold at the 2018 Winter Olympics and silver at the 2022 Winter Olympics. Her latest gold medal at the 2026 Winter Olympics further cements her legacy as one of the sport’s premier defenders.
At the professional level, Barnes competes in the Professional Women’s Hockey League (PWHL) with the Seattle Torrent, where she plays alongside fellow Team USA stars Knight and Alex Carpenter.
When she’s not on the ice, Barnes enjoys outdoor activities including hiking, paddleboarding, swimming and tubing — a reminder that even Olympic champions appreciate time spent away from competition.
Eastvale residents, along with hockey fans across the country, are celebrating yet another milestone in Barnes’ remarkable career.
