Team USA Skeleton

Skeleton racing originated in 1882. English soldiers created the sport as a variation of tobogganing. Athletes, known as skeleton racers, sprint at the start before diving headfirst onto a skeleton racing sled. They navigate a twisting, ice-covered track, reaching speeds of over 80 mph while steering with subtle body movements. The sport is known for its high-speed descents, precision control and intense competition.

Skeleton racing made its Olympic debut at the Olympic Winter Games St. Moritz 1928 and returned at the Olympic Winter Games St. Moritz 1948, both times contested only at the Swiss resort. It was reintroduced permanently to the Olympic program at the Olympic Winter Games Salt Lake City 2002 for both men and women. 

Team USA has a rich history in Olympic skeleton racing, with standout performances throughout the life of the sport. Team USA won both gold and silver medals in the men’s and women’s races’ inaugural years. Brothers Jennison and John Heaton won gold and silver at St. Moritz 1928 while Tristan Gale and Lea Ann Parsley took first and second at Salt Lake City 2002.

Olympic skeleton racing consists of men’s and women’s individual events. Athletes complete four timed runs over two days, with cumulative time determining the final standings. Unlike other sliding sports, skeleton racers begin with a running push start before lying headfirst on their sleds to navigate the track’s turns and straights.

Follow along the figure skaters' road to the Olympic Winter Games Milano Cortina 2026.

The skeleton racing sled is a small, lightweight sled designed for high-speed ice racing. Built with steel runners and a streamlined frame, the sled allows athletes to control their descent with minimal adjustments. Each sled must comply with IBSF regulations regarding weight, materials and dimensions.

Skeleton racing takes place on an ice track shared with bobsled and luge events. Tracks vary in length but typically range from 1,200 to 1,500 meters with multiple curves, straightaways and challenging turns. The start area features a short runway where skeleton racers generate speed before mounting their sleds.