Canada Exonerated of US Claims of Rigging Skeleton Qualifying Event
The Canadian skeleton team were cleared of charges that they rigged a selection race for the upcoming Games, thereby denying rival athletes a chance to qualify.
The Core Allegation and Official Inquiry
US skeleton veteran a five-time Olympian alleged the Canadian squad of withdrawing four of its six entered athletes from a race in Lake Placid. She claimed this reduced the field, making fewer qualifying points available. Although she took first place, the American athlete did not secure her qualifying position for the Milan-Cortina Games.
“Existing federation regulations allow National Federations to pull competitors from an event at any time,” declared the governing body.
After reviewing the matter, the IBSF stated it would not impose sanctions, dismissing the complaints as no rules were broken of its regulations.
Defense and Rationale
Reacting to the claims, Bobsleigh Canada Skeleton stood by the withdrawals, citing competitor health and the need for recovery. The organization stated that the individuals pulled had already raced multiple times that week and the decision was “correct, clear and in keeping with both their well-being and the integrity of the sport.”
Coaches from the US, Denmark, Israel, and Malta had voiced “serious concerns” about the qualification process.
Uhlaender's Olympic Quest
For Katie Uhlaender, the Milan-Cortina Games are planned to be her final Olympic appearance. Her path to qualification remains, the probable US team spots are expected to go to Kelly Curtis and Mystique Ro. She is a former world champion whose closest Olympic finish was just off the podium in 2014.
Broader Context
The controversy comes during a time of increased rivalry in sports between Canada and the US. Recent political rhetoric and trade disputes have fueled a intense sporting rivalry. Notable recent events include the 4 Nations Face-off and a seven-game baseball championship featuring clubs in the two countries.
