German sledders expect strong challenge from China

Germany's bobsleigh and skeleton squads say they count China among their medal rivals at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.

"We have to include Chinese athletes among the medal contenders at the Olympics. They are fast starters and have gained experience," said German skeleton head coach Christian Baude.

Baude and his team this week returned from test runs at the new Olympic track in Yanqing, a northern suburb of Beijing.

German bobsleigh coach Rene Spies said he will be keeping tabs on how Chinese athletes perform at forthcoming European Cup events.

"We are eager to see what Chinese drivers are capable of. Fact is, we don't underestimate their skills. It's all about reaching the best level when we start in China," Spies added.

Germany is among the favorites for gold at Beijing 2022, but Spies said: "The favorite tag isn't in my mind at all. We know we face strong competitors and have to perform to the highest level."

With the COVID-19 pandemic limiting competitive action, the German Olympic Sports Association has turned to the science department of its sponsor, car manufacturer BMW, to give its sledders an edge on the track.

Bobsleigh drivers have benefited from a newly created simulator and advanced spike plates in their shoes that rely on a performance analysis database created by a new high-tech "measure sled".

The spike plates, manufactured with 3D printing, are made from titanium and Inconel, materials normally used in rocket science.

To better familiarize themselves with the Yanqing track, bob drivers have been using a simulator, similar to the machines used by motor sports drivers.

Germany's Olympic bobsleigh champion Francesco Friedrich made 20 runs on the simulator before participating in tests on the new Olympic track in Yanqing.

"Thanks to the simulator, we knew from the start about the track's curves. It's a great help when you have to compete on a track without many training sessions," Friedrich said.

He and his colleagues will use their experience from the test runs in Yanqing to update the simulator.

Three-time Olympic champion Felix Loch said the "measure sled" helps find the perfect line down the track.

Loch and his compatriots have been working on the project for over two years.

"This new digital technology gives us valuable support to prepare for competition and allows youngsters to gain a deeper understanding of the sport's requirements," German Olympic official Alexander Resch said.

Xinhua