As the countdown to the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics begins, Kelsey Mitchell is set to make history by becoming one of a select few Canadian athletes to compete in both the Summer and Winter Games. The gold medalist in sprint track cycling from Tokyo 2021 has swiftly transitioned to the bobsleigh track, where she will take on the role of brakewoman in the two-woman event. This remarkable journey has not only showcased her athletic versatility but also her determination to embrace new challenges.
From Velodrome to Bobsleigh Track
At 32 years old, Mitchell finds herself in a unique position. With only months of bobsleigh training under her belt, she has swiftly risen through the ranks to secure her spot on Canada’s Olympic team. The leap from Olympic champion in cycling to a novice in bobsleigh is no small feat; yet, Mitchell has embraced this change with both enthusiasm and tenacity. “It’s crazy … it doesn’t feel real,” she shared from Calgary after receiving her official Olympic jacket on January 23. “The team has been incredible, and I just honestly fell back in love with sport. It’s been a beautiful journey.”
Mitchell’s entry into the bobsleigh world began with a rigorous training schedule. Her first push test took place in June, followed by her initial experience of crewing a bobsleigh at the Whistler Sliding Centre in October. After competing in her debut World Cup race in November, she was officially named to the Olympic team in January. This whirlwind progression has been a testament to her dedication and adaptability.
A New Kind of Competition
Transitioning from cycling to bobsleigh presents a stark contrast in competition dynamics. While cycling is an individual speed sport, bobsleigh demands a high level of teamwork and trust. As the second athlete in the sled, Mitchell contributes a powerful five-second push at the start before relying on the pilot to navigate the treacherous icy track at speeds that can exceed 130 kilometres per hour. The sport’s inherent risks, combined with the physical demands of full-body strength, have required Mitchell to adapt her training regimen significantly.
She remarked, “There’s so much work to do on the sled. You’re polishing runners for hours. You’re standing on your feet. It’s opposite from what I’m used to.” The requirement for the two-woman sled and its athletes to maintain a maximum weight of 331 kilograms has added another layer of complexity to her training.
A Journey of Rediscovery
Mitchell’s path to bobsleigh is not merely a career change; it is a quest for rediscovery in the realm of athletics. After experiencing a challenging two years leading up to the 2024 Paris Olympics, where she struggled with injuries and performance, Mitchell sought a break from cycling. The Sherwood Park, Alta., native, who has dabbled in various sports throughout her life, turned her attention to bobsleigh to reignite her passion for competition.
This shift was not entirely new; Mitchell had previously attempted to enter the bobsleigh arena over a decade ago but did not meet the coaches’ expectations at the time. However, her perseverance paid off when she was invited back to tryout after impressing coaches during a push test. “She’s a killer. I love that about her. She’s just got a killer mentality,” praised Quin Sekulich, sprint coach for Canada’s bobsleigh and skeleton teams.
The Road Ahead
As she prepares for the Winter Games, Mitchell is not only focused on her own performance but also on the spirit of teamwork that defines bobsleigh. Competing alongside other athletes who have also made significant career changes has fostered a sense of camaraderie within the team.
Mitchell’s shift from cycling to bobsleigh has been a journey of self-discovery, pushing the boundaries of her athletic capabilities. She has not touched her bike since July, intent on mastering the skills needed for bobsleigh. She plans to return to cycling in April, but for now, her sights are firmly set on the Olympic stage.
The excitement of qualifying for the Winter Olympics is palpable. “To call them and tell them to book their flights was exciting,” she said, reflecting on the joy of sharing her achievement with her family. The bobsleigh competition will take place in Cortina from February 15 to February 22, marking a significant milestone in her diverse athletic career.
Why it Matters
Kelsey Mitchell’s journey exemplifies the resilience and adaptability of athletes who face change head-on. Her transition from a celebrated cycling career to the high-stakes environment of bobsleigh not only highlights her exceptional athleticism but also serves as an inspiring narrative for aspiring athletes everywhere. As she prepares to compete in the Winter Olympics, her story underscores the importance of perseverance and the spirit of exploration in sports, reminding us that the journey of an athlete can be as impactful as the victories themselves.
