Canada Exonerated of American Claims of Manipulating Bobsleigh Qualifying Race
Canada's skeleton athletes were cleared of charges that they rigged a selection race for the Winter Olympics, thereby denying rival athletes a spot to secure their place.
Central Claim and Official Inquiry
US skeleton veteran Katie Uhlaender alleged the team from Canada of withdrawing a majority of its entered athletes from a recent event in New York. The allegation was this reduced the field, making a lower points pool available. Although she took first place, the American athlete did not secure her berth for the Milan-Cortina Games.
“The current IBSF Rules allow member nations to pull competitors from an event at any time,” stated the International Bobsleigh & Skeleton Federation (IBSF).
Following an investigation, the IBSF announced it would take no action, rejecting the allegations as there was no breach of its regulations.
Defense and Rationale
In response, the Canadian federation defended the decision, pointing to competitor health and the need for rest. They stated that the individuals pulled had already raced multiple times that week and the move was “appropriate, transparent and in keeping with both their well-being and the integrity of the sport.”
Coaches from several affected nations had previously expressed “serious concerns” about the qualification process.
The Athlete's Future
The 41-year-old athlete, the Milan-Cortina Games are planned to be her last Olympic appearance. While she can still qualify, the probable American berths are projected for other athletes. She is a 2012 world gold medalist whose closest Olympic finish was fourth place in Sochi 2014.
A Contentious Sporting Climate
This incident comes during a time of heightened tension in sports between Canada and the US. Statements from political figures and trade disputes have added to a spirited sporting rivalry. Recent memorable clashes include heated ice hockey matches and a thrilling World Series featuring clubs in the neighboring nations.
