(NEXSTAR) - Debbie Bowe is in Milan to support her daughter, speed skater Brittany Bowe, as she prepares to compete in her final Olympic Games. Bowe previously announced that these games would be her final Olympic appearance. Her mother and family, who traveled from Ocala, Fla., arrived in Milan early to attend the opening ceremonies and support the athlete during her transition away from competitive skating. The opening ceremonies held special significance for the Bowe family, who attended the event for the first time. This year's flag bearer, speed skater Erin Jackson, is a close friend of Brittany's. Debbie noted that Brittany had the same honor of carrying the flag during the previous Olympic Games. "I don't even know if I have the words for it," Debbie said regarding the recognition for long track speed skaters. "It's just like another daughter having that privilege and both of them have such regard and respect for what the American flag symbolizes." Debbie added that the honor extends to their families and their hometown. While in Milan, the family has attended other events, including hockey games featuring Hillary Knight. Bowe described the experience of watching hockey as more relaxing than speed skating. She explained that when watching Brittany, she focuses on three specific components: personal bests, good sportsmanship and remaining injury free. "I've never ever prayed for a victory," Debbie said. "It's just for those three components." The family is known for their enthusiastic support in the arena. Debbie explained that their cheering is meant to provide love and encouragement regardless of whether Brittany reaches the podium. "Just do your best. And that's what we need to be satisfied," Debbie said. "Our cheer is just to encourage and support." As Brittany prepares for her final races, her mother admitted to feeling more emotional. "The emotions that we know it will be the last one or the last line that she goes to on the ice," Debbie said. She noted that Brittany was raised to simply give her all in every endeavor. Brittany Bowe is scheduled to compete in her first race of these Olympic Games tomorrow. Her mother said the family is prayerful for a smooth transition as Brittany moves into the next chapter of her career following the competition. All facts in this report were gathered by journalists employed by Nexstar. Artificial intelligence tools were used to reformat from a broadcast script into a news article for our website. This report was edited and fact-checked by Nexstar staff before being published.