Sports Excellence Visit to British Bobsleigh

On Monday 20th November, the Sports Excellence group embarked on an exciting adventure to explore the winter sports of bobsleigh and skeleton. We were hosted by the British Bobsleigh coaches and team, based at Bath University. It promised to be an adrenaline-packed day filled with thrills and an opportunity to get a taste of the high-speed sport that captivates athletes and enthusiasts alike.

Upon arriving at the GB Bobsleigh and Skeleton training facility (the only one in the UK!) the staff warmly welcomed us and provided a comprehensive introduction to the day's activities and an overview of the safety protocols. Before hitting the track, pupils underwent a thorough training session and experienced instructors walked us through the fundamentals of skeleton. Pupils started off being pushed by a former GB athlete and then learnt the proper way to run along-side and enter the sled with the crucial technique required. The instructors were patient and knowledgeable, ensuring that even as beginners, pupils felt comfortable and confident before embarking on the exhilarating ride up the ramp.

The highlight of the day, undoubtedly, was the Skeleton ride itself. Holding onto the tea-tray style, aerodynamic sled. Pupils experienced not even a fraction of the G-forces at play compared to the real deal but it was exciting nonetheless. It wasn’t long before the nerves were gone and pupils began to get competitive with each other - trying to get the fastest push times on the track! The fastest push of the day came from Joe (Y13) followed by Henry Y9) and the fastest female on the track was Lowen followed by Eliza (Y10).  We were also able to handle some of the technical equipment, such as an Olympic race suit, helmets and ice-spikes. They were able to see inside the sled, learn how to maintain and look after it and ask questions about the athletes preparations. For example, did you know that there are no breaks on a skeleton sled? Athletes instead use their feet to dig into the ice and sit up tall to create resistance. 

In the afternoon, pupils experienced a short talent identification process.  Skeleton athletes come from all sports and backgrounds and so pupils had the opportunity to showcase exceptional talent and potential irrespective of prior experience. The identification process aimed to highlight those who could benefit from specialised training, mentorship, and opportunities to further hone and showcase their abilities. The testing involved a series of speed tests over 15m and 30m through timing gates, then testing for power in the form of explosive counter movement jumps. Pupils also then were measured for height and arm-span as these are the factors which are taken into account. Finally pupils reflected on the day, they considered what went well and what could be improved about their performance and learning.

The visit to British Bobsleigh and Skeleton was an unforgettable adventure filled with excitement, competitiveness, camaraderie, and a newfound appreciation for the madness of this incredible winter sport. Thank you to the BBSA for hosting us, and we wish the athletes good luck at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Madrid!