Inside the Ice House: Elite Bobsledders' Journey to Excellence in Lake Placid
In Lake Placid, New York, despite the rising temperatures, elite bobsledders are dedicated to their training on ice at the newly constructed indoor facility known as the "ice house." This facility, established in 2021, is the sole refrigerated indoor venue in the United States where bobsledders can hone their push start skills, a crucial aspect of the bobsled race. According to Josh Williamson, a braker for Team USA, the ice house is a vital asset for bobsledding in the U.S.
Many male bobsled athletes bring a diverse set of skills to their training, drawing from their backgrounds in other sports. For instance, Williamson's athletic journey included football and lacrosse before transitioning to bobsledding. The selection process for bobsledders often prioritizes individuals with speed and power, reflecting the physical demands of the sport.
Frankie Del Duca, a bobsled driver, boasts a wide-ranging athletic background that includes football, soccer, hockey, baseball, ski racing, and car racing. Both Williamson and Del Duca stumbled upon bobsledding through different avenues, with Williamson winning Team USA's Next Olympic Hopeful in 2017 and Del Duca learning about tryouts from his college track coach. Their shared passion for speed and power has fueled their pursuit of excellence in bobsledding.
As the Olympic team selection process unfolds, Williamson and Del Duca are immersed in rigorous training alongside other top U.S. athletes. The upcoming competition in October will determine the national team, with the ultimate goal of qualifying for the Milan-Cortina Olympics in January. While both athletes competed in Beijing in 2022, their involvement in bobsledding has evolved into a deep-seated love for the sport itself, transcending their initial Olympic aspirations.