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Hello from Altenberg, Germany!
Altenberg… you may not have heard of it — and honestly, I’m not totally sure where I am in Germany either! Rumour has it this track was built in the 1980s as a secret East German project to boost Olympic medal success. It’s hidden deep in the forest, and if you didn’t know it was here, you’d probably drive right past it.
St. Moritz, on the other hand, was incredible — and it has officially won my vote for the best track on tour. The natural ice made the ride so quiet, and as I stared at the bottom of the sled while going 130 km/h, I could actually see sunlight shining through the holes in the floor. I was folded completely in half, flying down the track… strangely therapeutic, haha. We had our best two-man result there and finished 8th!
So what does all of this mean?
Here’s the inside scoop.
We’re still in a tight battle with Switzerland for the right to qualify a third sled for the Olympics. One of our pilots had been racing on the lower circuit in North America and doing very well, so the team flew her over to Altenberg for this final push. That meant our previous third-ranked pilot had to step aside. She found out late Friday night — right before racing — and understandably, it was heartbreaking. Sport can be brutally emotional, and there’s a lot happening behind the scenes.
Now the focus is on helping this newly arrived pilot perform at her best and secure that third spot for Canada.
She is currently four points ahead of the Swiss sled, and everything will be decided this Sunday. The team will be named next week.
- 3 sleds = 3 brakemen + 2 alternates
- 2 sleds = 2 brakemen + 1 alternate
So yes… the pressure is very real.
As for me, I’m in a strange position — I’m not racing this weekend. I won’t be able to add any points on the ice. I did everything I could in every opportunity I was given, and now I have to wait. It’s hard not having control over the outcome, but it’s also a chance to be the teammate I’ve always loved being: moving sleds, cheering loudly, and doing whatever I can to help the team succeed. It’s a big job — and I’m ready for it 😉
A huge thank you again to all of you. Your support has meant the world, and this bobsleigh season has taught me so much. Whether I’m selected for the Olympics or not, I’m proud of what I’ve learned and excited to bring that knowledge into cycling — and life.
Please keep your fingers crossed 🤞
I’ll update you when I’m back in Calgary next week and know more.
Talk soon,
