Well-known people from Latvia in America
Maris Strombergs, olympic and world champion in BMX racing
Maris is a 2-time olympic gold medalist and 2-time world champion in BMX racing, currently resides in USA, California
Ernests Gulbis, tennis player
Gulbis' career-high singles ranking is world no. 21, achieved in February 2011.
Andris Biedrins, NBA Basketball player
Andris Biedrins (height: 6'11) plays for the Golden State Warriors
Sandis Ozolins, Hockey player
Sandis won the Stanley Cup with Colorado Avalanche
Karlis Skrastins, NHL Hockey player
Karlis Skrastins played for the Dallas Stars, previously for the Colorado Avalanche. Unfortunately his life was cut short on Sept. 7, 2011 when a plane carrying members of the KHL hockey team Lokomotiv crashed in Russia.
Artūrs Irbe, NHL Hockey player, goaltender
His first NHL team was the San Jose Sharks. There he was nicknamed "The Wall" and became a cult figure in San Jose, a status he enjoys there to this day.
Elina Garanca, Opera Singer
Performed in New York’s Metropolitan Opera as Carmen in George Bizet's "Carmen" as well as many other performances all over the world.
Kristine Opolais, Opera Singer
Performed in New York’s Metropolitan Opera as Magda in Puccini’s “La Rondine” and Mimi in Puccini’s ''La Boheme'' as well as many other performances all over the world.
Maija Kovalevska, Opera Singer
In 2008/2009 Maija Kovalevska performed the role of Mimi in La Boheme at the San Francisco Opera
Mariss Jansons, Conductor
The music director of the Pittsburgh Symphony Orchestra, 1997 - 2004, after which he moved to be a chief conductor in Europe, Amsterdam Royal Concertgebouw Orchestra.