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This weekend, the Canadian bobsleigh team heads to Altenberg, Germany, for a pivotal qualifying event ahead of the Milano Cortina Olympics, starting on February 6. Among the athletes is Kelsey Mitchell, a former Olympic champion in track cycling, who is striving to secure her spot in the games following her recent transition to bobsleigh.
After winning gold at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, Mitchell has faced challenges in her new sport. Her determination remains unwavering as she reflects on her journey, emphasizing the significance of hard work and resilience in adapting to the demands of bobsleigh.
The dedication required for Olympic success
Switching sports demands not only physical ability but also considerable mental strength. Kelsey Mitchell is acutely aware of this reality. “I enjoy the process of mastering a new skill,” she stated in an interview with CBC Sports. This mindset underscores her dedication to continuous improvement, a vital characteristic for any athlete aspiring to Olympic success.
As the bobsleigh season unfolds, Mitchell has confronted the harsh realities of training under cold conditions while handling heavy sleds. “It’s a grind sport,” she admits, recognizing the toughness necessary to thrive. Her recent efforts culminated in a strong performance at the IBSF World Cup in St. Moritz, where she and her partner, Melissa Lotholz, achieved their best results of the season.
Facing the uncertainty of competition
With the Altenberg event on the horizon, anticipation builds for Mitchell and her teammates. The official announcement of the Canadian Olympic bobsleigh team is scheduled for January 19, contingent upon their performance in Germany. Mitchell remains hopeful about her prospects, yet she acknowledges the unpredictability of competition.
“I’ve done everything I can to support my teammates, but the outcome is beyond my control now,” she remarked, demonstrating her ability to stay grounded amid the pressure of Olympic qualification.
Reflections on her athletic journey
Prior to her move to bobsleigh, Kelsey Mitchell faced a setback in her cycling career, finishing eighth in the women’s sprint at the Paris 2024 Olympics. This transition has rekindled her passion for sport. Filmmaker Mackenzie Stannard, a high school friend of Mitchell’s, documented her early experiences in bobsleigh, capturing moments of joy and doubt as she navigated the learning curve.
“The first time I went down the track in Whistler, it was exhilarating. I was smiling the whole way,” Mitchell recalled. However, later runs presented challenges, including nausea and uncertainty. Despite these initial obstacles, her determination emerged, leading her to refine her technique and build the strength necessary to manage the demanding sled.
Rediscovering a love for athletics
For Mitchell, embracing bobsleigh has been a way to rediscover her enthusiasm for athletics after feeling disillusioned in cycling. Stannard believes her story resonates with many athletes. “This is about finding one’s purpose again,” he noted, highlighting Mitchell’s willingness to share her vulnerabilities as a newcomer in the sport.
As the countdown to the Olympics continues, Kelsey Mitchell remains optimistic about her future. Whether she competes as a full-fledged member of the Olympic team or as an alternate, her passion for sport and dedication to her craft will undoubtedly shine through.