The course for a bobsled race is known as a “run.” All new bobsled tracks must meet IBSF specifications so that they can be used for luge and skeleton competitions as well. IBSF has sanctioned 16 of the 18 bobsled runs throughout the globe.
Bobsledders must adhere to international rules set by the International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation (IBSF) regarding track length, curve construction, vertical drop, and centrifugal force. Whenever possible, new tracks will be laid so that they follow the natural contours of the land.
Contents
What Are Modern Bobsled Tracks Made Of
Completely one bobsled run in the world uses only natural snow and ice, and that’s the St. Moritz-Celerina in St. Mortiz, Switzerland. Bobsled tracks elsewhere in the world are often constructed from metal or concrete.
At the start of the race, the concrete is covered with snow, which is then soaked in water. The resulting sheet of ice serves as the course for the competition.
Push-Off Stretch
At the start of a bobsled race, the competitors use a “push-off stretch” to get a head start. In this section, the bobsledders can push the bob because it is a straight length with enough room. Because this push and gravity are the sole sources of speed for the bob for the entire race, the competitors must run as fast as they possibly can.
Any extra weight the team has added to the bobsled in order to reach the maximum weight limit is a hindrance during the push-off. Weight makes a difference; a sturdier bob is more challenging to move, even when friction is minimal.
It Takes Roughly Six Seconds To Get To The Starting Position For The Launch.
An advantageous start is critical, since a 1/10-second advantage at the beginning of the race can balloon to a 3/10-second advantage by the finish. After getting a good start, the bobsledders hop off the track and into the bob, where they stoop to maximise their aerodynamics.
The norm is for the driver to get in first, followed by the brakeman. The pilot and any other people on board lower their steering controls.
The Driver And Gravity Now Play The Biggest Roles in Finishing The Race.
The driver guides the bob along the run with extremely precise motions. Every member of the crew takes a turn shifting his or her weight as needed. The goal of any driver is to discover the line, or the best possible course down the circuit. Next, we’ll go deeper into the line and the bobsled’s path as they relate to the laws of physics.
