Germany Wins Revamped Team Relay

From Whistler, CAN

(December 16, 2023) – The more things change, the more they stay the same. Germany dominated the three-sled Team Relay for so long, and with the race now having four sleds it just gave them another chance to pull away and win.

Canada led early with four very clean runs capped by four outstanding exits out of the final curve toward the paddle. They held their lead after Ukraine, Romania and Poland all went, with Poland getting as close as anyone.

Italy’s run started a little slowly but they opened up a full second lead over Canada. That lead was short-lived though as the United States, anchored by a huge run by Emily Sweeney, edged out Italy by .028 to take over.

Austria’s run was good at first, but a big mistake by Steu and Kindl put them back mid-run. Jonas Müller found time at the bottom and was enough to give Austria the lead by .096.

Latvia found themselves in third early, just .047 behind the United States in third. Slides by the team of Bots & Plume and Kristers Aparjods put the team well ahead, but a huge skid and crash toward the paddle by Ziedina and Svilna  set Latvia well back, behind Italy.

Finally it was Germany’s turn. The team was made up of the winner of each race during the weekend, and was anchored by the team of Degenhardt and Rosenthal. The Germans cruised to victory by over a half of a second ahead of Austria, with the United States .646 back in third.

Italy finished fourth, ahead of Latvia, Canada, Poland, Ukraine, and Romania.

This was the first World Cup to include the women’s doubles, meaning a new track record will be set for every relay this season.

Results: