Thrills and Records at the Norton USA Luge Start Championships
The Norton USA Luge Start Championships, held on September 19 in Lake Placid, recently delivered an impressive showcase of athletic prowess. Athletes from all corners came together to kick-off the luge season, with many breaking records and achieving personal bests.
A Historic Event in Lake Placid
Lake Placid serves as the USA Luge team’s headquarters, and it was here that athletes launched the season in style. Traditionally, the championships reflect the competitive spirit of the sport, combining traditional start times with a dynamic reaction start format. This latter method involves a gate that randomly opens, akin to the excitement found in team relay competitions. The atmosphere was charged as spectators warmed up for the thrilling competition.
Men’s Singles Championship Highlights
Tucker West, a local hero from Lake Placid, had a spectacular day. He shattered his previous record by clocking a phenomenal 3.23 seconds during his first heat and secured his 13th Norton Start Championship title with a combined time of 10.68 seconds.
“I’m really happy with the level of starts today,” West stated. Having recently overcome a lat injury that plagued him throughout the summer, he expressed satisfaction with his comeback. “I’m hoping to keep that feeling going into the season,” he added, an optimistic sign as he looks ahead.
Coming in second was Hunter Harris from East Fairfield, Vermont, with a time of 11.13, while Aidan Mueller took third place at 11.29. Notably, rivals Jonny Gustafson and Matt Greiner had to sit out due to minor injuries, highlighting the unpredictable nature of sports.
Women’s Singles Championship Success
For the women, Emily Fischnaller, formerly Sweeney, shone brightly. Tied for the traditional start record with a best single heat of 3.54 seconds, she also achieved a combined time of 11.65 to emerge victorious.
“I’m pleasantly surprised with my times,” she admitted. Expressing pride in her team’s collective performance, she noted, “the times that everyone in each discipline were posting up were awesome.” Such camaraderie underscores the essence of team spirit, especially before the season kicks off.
Coming in behind Fischnaller were three-time Olympian Summer Britcher, placing second with a time of 11.69, and 2022 Olympian Ashley Farquharson, who finished third in 11.86 seconds.
The Men’s Doubles Competition
In the men’s doubles segment, the dynamic duo of Zack DiGregorio and Sean Hollander stole the show. They completed their runs in an impressive time of 10.89 seconds, setting record times of 3.30 seconds in both heats.
“I think on a couple of starts, we surprised ourselves today with how much (time) we dropped,” Hollander said, pumping up the excitement for the upcoming Olympic season. Their achievements further exemplified the competitive edge that drives these athletes.
Women’s Doubles Record-Breaking Performance
The women’s doubles competition also showcased exceptional talent, with Chevonne Forgan and Sophia Kirkby setting a record during the traditional start at 3.54 seconds and a reaction start record of 4.61 seconds, culminating in a combined time of 11.17 seconds.
Forgan expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “We managed to beat our previous record on both the regular start and the reaction.” Their performance highlighted their determination and readiness for the season ahead.
What Lies Ahead
As the athletes gear up for the World Cup season, the excitement is palpable. The team is set to hit the ice on October 9 in Lillehammer, Norway. The first five World Cup races will be pivotal, serving as a qualifier for the Olympic squad. Notably, the season’s opening race will occur from December 5 to 7 in Igls, Austria, with further events slated in Park City, Utah, and back home in Lake Placid.
In this gripping season opener, Lake Placid not only showcased remarkable talent but also solidified its status as a pivotal hub for luge—a sport that intertwines speed, precision, and agility in thrilling harmony. As records fell and personal bests were achieved, all eyes are now on the horizon as the Olympic ambitions draw nearer.