U.S. Speed Skaters Revolutionize Team Pursuit with Innovative Technique

The U.S. Olympic speed skating teams are poised to make a significant impact in the Team Pursuit event at the upcoming Olympic Games in Milan. This event, which features two sets of three skaters racing against each other on a 400-meter track, has been transformed by the introduction of a new technique inspired by NASCAR's "bump drafting." U.S. speed skater Giorgia Birkeland emphasized the unique nature of the Team Pursuit, stating, "It's honestly a completely different race than an individual race."

NPRU.S. chases golden sweep in team pursuit at Milan Cortina Olympics

In preparation for the 2022 Beijing Games, U.S. Speedskating's chief of sports performance, Shane Domer, initiated a comprehensive evaluation of the team's potential in the Team Pursuit. Collaborating with sports aerodynamicist Ingmar Jungnickel, Domer developed an AI-powered simulation tool to analyze skaters' aerodynamics, leading to the adoption of a pushing technique that allows skaters to share the workload more efficiently. Jungnickel noted, "We could show that pushing is substantially faster," indicating that this method could elevate the U.S. team from eighth to first in the world rankings.

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The push technique, which involves skaters using their hands to propel the skater in front of them, initially faced skepticism from coaches concerned about fatigue and safety. However, as the U.S. team improved their competition standings, the technique was integrated into their training regimen. Each skater now specializes in a specific position—first, second, or third—allowing them to synchronize their movements closely. Birkeland described the necessity for trust among teammates, stating, "You have to read their body language... Trust is a huge thing."

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The introduction of this technique has not only enhanced the U.S. team's performance but has also influenced other nations to reconsider their strategies. Following the 2018 Olympics, the U.S. developed this new approach, which has propelled them to the forefront of both men's and women's Team Pursuit events. Historically, the U.S. has not secured a gold medal in this category at the Olympics, but with a strong showing in recent competitions, including bronze finishes in 2018 and 2022, the team is optimistic about their chances in Milan.

U.S. chases golden sweep in team pursuit at Milan Cortina Olympics

The U.S. speed skating teams will compete on February 17, with the men's semifinals followed by the women's semifinals, and concluding with the finals for both genders. This event holds particular significance for the athletes, as several skaters, including Brittany Bowe and Mia Manganello, plan to retire after this season, adding motivation to secure a medal.

U.S. chases golden sweep in team pursuit at Milan Cortina Olympics

Domer remarked on the necessity of the push technique for success in the Team Pursuit, stating, "Most teams have to rely on this technique." The U.S. team's innovative approach has set a new standard in the sport, with Birkeland highlighting the importance of synchronization and trust among teammates.

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• “You should be as close as humanly possible to the gluteus maximus,” — Giorgia Birkeland, U.S. Speed Skater

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• “To be successful, most teams have to rely on this technique.” — Shane Domer, Chief of Sports Performance, U.S. Speedskating

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The U.S. speed skating teams are not only aiming for medals but are also redefining the dynamics of Team Pursuit racing, potentially changing the sport's competitive landscape for years to come.

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