Sochi 2014 Winter Olympics
Hot. Cool. Yours.
Location of Sochi
Skeleton
Descending down the track
Skeleton track
Athlete diving onto the skeleton
Skeleton Rules and Equipment
- After being called to the starting area by an official, the slider has 30 seconds to begin his or her run.
- The maximum combined weight of the slider, sled and equipment is 92 kilograms for women and 115 kilograms for men.
- Loads may be applied to the sled to make it heavier but not to the slider's body.
- Warming the sled's metal runners or applying any matter that improves sliding before use is prohibited.
- The slider must be on the sled when passing the finish line for the run to be valid.
- Athletes can not try to slow down on the course and as a result, they will be disqualified.
- The same sled must be used for both heats, unless it is broken.
Equipment
Brakes - There are no brakes, at the end of the course there is an incline to stop the sliders.
Bumpers - Bumpers at the front and back absorb shock and prevent athletes from the wall.
Gloves - Gloves are usually made out of leather and are used for protection.
Handles - These are used for the pushing at the start of the race and during the race. Handles must be covered with soft material.
Helmet - Sliders must wear helmets. The helmets are hard plastic and have a chin guard and a visor.
Racing Suit - The racing suit is a tight body suit made of elastic fabric that may have padding sewn into the elbows.
Shoes - The shoes are made out of synthetic material and have spikes on the bottom for grip during the running "push" phase.
Sled - The sled is made of two runners that must be constructed of steel.