Thursday 20 February 2014

Bobsledders Defend Gold Medal

"I drove that track the very best I knew how; when we got out of that sled on that fourth run, both her and I knew..." (Kaillie Humphries)



Coming into Vancouver, Canadians Kaillie Humphries and Heather Moyse were considered underdogs in bobsledding.  But they proved naysayers wrong when they captured the gold  Could they repeat their gold medal performance in Vancouver?  The world was watching.

Coming into Sochi, Humphries and Moyse were considered to be the favourites.  On Day 1 of the bobsledding event, heavy rain wreaked havoc with the course at the Sanki Sliding Center. The chief rival to the Canadian sled was the American one which set a start and a track record in the first heat.  The Americans continued to lead in the 2nd heat, but with Canada close behind.

On Day 2, the rain had stopped.  The Americans led again in the 3rd heat.  The Canadians had 11/100ths of a second to make up to close the gap.  Known for her composure under pressure, Kaillie Humphries knew what she had to do.  The Canadians, going second to last, had 17 turns between them and a possible gold medal.  The nailed a quick start and a smooth run.  Now it was up to the Americans to do the same. However, the American sled wobbled down the track, giving the Canadians the victory by only 10/100ths of a second.

Kaillie and Heather ran to the flag waving spectators to hug their families.  Meanwhile, in Calgary, Alberta and Summerside, P.E.I. celebrations were underway to honour the hometown heroes.  Congratulations, Kaillie and Heather!






Canada's gold medalists in bobsled courtesy www.ctvnews.ca.

No comments:

Post a Comment