US Aims for Double Victory in World and Olympic Skeleton Championships

The United States aims for a double victory in the World and Olympic Skeleton Championships as the competition unfolds in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy. This year marks a pivotal moment for U.S. skeleton athletes, especially with the introduction of the mixed relay event. Historically, the U.S. is the most successful nation in Olympic skeleton, yet recent performances have shown a decline in medal achievements. The last Olympic gold was secured 24 years ago in Salt Lake City.

History of U.S. Skeleton Success

The U.S. has two Olympic gold medals in men’s skeleton, won in 1928 and 2002, and one women’s gold in 2002. In recent Winter Olympics, their success dwindled. The U.S. managed only two medals in the last six Olympic Games. Notably, Noelle Pikus-Pace won silver in Sochi 2014, while Matthew Antoine took home the bronze.

Mixed Relay Success

In a significant boost, American athletes Mystique Ro and Austin Florian triumphed at the mixed team world championship held in Lake Placid last year. This victory ended Germany’s four-year medal streak in this category. Ro emphasized the mixed relay’s value, noting it adds a team dynamic to the sport, making it both complex and exciting.

Upcoming Olympic Aspirations

• Ro and Florian aim to continue their success at the upcoming Olympics.
• They recently finished third in the current World Cup season.

Florian shared his excitement, expressing that entering the Olympics as reigning world champions is an incredible opportunity. They hope to channel their recent momentum into a strong performance at the Olympics.

Local Talent: Kelly Curtis

Another contender is Kelly Curtis, who has established familiarity with the Cortina track through her U.S. Air Force duties in the area. She recently secured a silver medal at the St Moritz World Cup. Curtis represents a growing number of athletes balancing motherhood with their sporting ambitions, having had a baby this year.

With support from her colleagues and community in Italy, she is eager for this Olympic opportunity. Curtis reflected on her improved mindset heading into these Games compared to her rookie season when she first qualified.

Recent Developments in U.S. Skeleton

U.S. skeleton faced challenges when Katie Uhlaender unsuccessfully appealed to join the Olympic team after missing qualification due to extenuating circumstances. Director of performance Curt Tomasevicz acknowledged the complexity of the situation, emphasizing a focus on the athletes competing this season.

As the competition nears, the U.S. skeleton team is poised to attempt to reclaim its past glory and enhance its standing on the international stage.