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Emma Coburn makes history in steeplechase at Rio with family looking on

RIO DE JANEIRO — It may be a little early to be choosing photographs for this year’s Christmas cards, but for Bill and Annie Coburn of Crested Butte, the decision was made for them Monday by their daughter Emma. And, after all, it is winter here.

Emma became the first American woman to win an Olympic medal in the 3,000-meter steeplechase, claiming bronze Monday morning while breaking her own American record.

“Oh my God, she’s wearing an Olympic medal, look at that,” said Annie, surrounded by 20 family members and friends who journeyed here to be part of Team Emma.