While we may be in the middle of summer, plans are in place for some exciting winter events.
The International Luge Federation recently announced its World Cup racing schedule for the 2016-17 season, and Park City will be hosting a World Cup weekend Dec. 16-17. This December event is one of three that will be held in North America. The other locations are Lake Placid, NY and Whistler, Canada.
World Cup Event at the Olimpic Park
The event, which will be held at the Utah Olympic Park, will also be historic as this segment of the World Cup races will be broadcast live on network television — a first in Luge World Cup history.
The Utah Olympic Park was the location of the luge events during the 2002 Winter games, along with many subsequent World Cup events.
Two-time U.S. Olympian Chris Mazdzer won last year’s Park City World Cup and said that he is extremely pleased to see the World Cup returning to North America for the FIL season.
Mazdzer says of the upcoming World Cup event, “It is always motivating when you compete at home and you have your favorite fans in the world cheering you on. It also helps to sleep in your own bed while on the road, or at least a bed that is familiar. The support that we get here in the United States has helped us perform really well in the past and hopefully will help us in the future.”
USA Luge President Dwight Bell says that there are numerous benefits to racing at home. He says that the athletes know the nuances of the Park City track. He also says, “…to have events in our country brings our sport to life for many fans.”
Bell says that the base of luge is center in Europe so he says that it is important that we present the excitement of the sport here in the United States.
Media Exposure of the Event
The television exposure that will be coming with this year’s event will also help attract new athletes to the sport.
This year, the event will be covered by NBC and will feature the women’s second and final heat. The coverage will be part of the Team USA Winter Champions Series. Live web streaming will also be available on the USA luge and FIL websites.
Of course, watching the events live is the ultimate in excitement. If you are planning to visit Park City during this event, please let us at Park City Rental Properties make arrangements for you to attend!
