Canada Cleared of American Allegations of Manipulating Skeleton Olympic Selection Event
The Canadian skeleton team have been absolved of accusations that they deliberately manipulated a selection race for the Winter Olympics, which allegedly denied competitors from other nations a chance to secure their place.
Central Claim and Investigation
A prominent American athlete a five-time Olympian accused the Canadian squad of withdrawing four of its six entered athletes from a recent event in New York. The allegation was this shrunk the competition, making fewer qualifying points available. Despite winning the event, Uhlaender did not secure her berth for the Milan-Cortina Games.
“The current IBSF Rules permit National Federations to withdraw athletes from competition at any time,” stated the International Bobsleigh & Skeleton Federation (IBSF).
Following an investigation, the federation stated it would take no action, rejecting the allegations as no rules were broken of its regulations.
Defense and Rationale
Reacting to the claims, the Canadian federation stood by the withdrawals, pointing to competitor health and the need for rest. The organization asserted that the individuals pulled had competed extensively that week and the decision was “correct, transparent and aligned with both athlete welfare and the integrity of the sport.”
Representatives of the US, Denmark, Israel, and Malta had voiced “serious concerns” about the qualification process.
The Athlete's Future
The 41-year-old athlete, the Milan-Cortina Games represent her last Games. While she can still qualify, the probable American berths are expected to go to Kelly Curtis and Mystique Ro. Uhlaender is a 2012 world gold medalist whose closest Olympic finish was just off the podium in Sochi 2014.
A Contentious Sporting Climate
The controversy comes during a period of heightened tension in athletic competitions involving the two North American nations. Recent political rhetoric and trade disputes have fueled a spirited competitive atmosphere. Notable recent events include the 4 Nations Face-off and a thrilling World Series featuring clubs in the two countries.
