The 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Games are set to commence on February 6, bringing together athletes from across the globe in Italy to vie for prestigious medals. The U.S. Bobsled team exemplifies national pride, showcasing a unique blend of skillful athletes, some of whom are also active duty military personnel.
Supported by the Army World Class Athlete Program (WCAP), these soldier-athletes are gearing up for the upcoming games, with six members of the U.S. Army participating in various sports. Among them is Sergeant Frank Del Duca, a bobsled pilot, who is joined by the esteemed three-time Olympian and silver medalist, Lieutenant Colonel Chris Fogt, currently serving as the coach for Team USA Bobsled.
Del Duca emphasizes that the WCAP offers more than just a training facility. He has been honored as the Flag Bearer for Team USA during the opening ceremonies. "The program has taught me invaluable lessons about teamwork and discipline," he shares. "I have been fortunate to learn from Army leaders who have excelled both in sports and military service, providing me with a wealth of mentorship that supports my journey on and off the ice."
In a recent conversation with fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, they discussed the rigorous preparations for the games, the challenges of bobsled training, and the sport's reputation as a second-chance opportunity.
Bobsledding presents a fascinating physics challenge, where the sled gains momentum from an initial powerful push. "Pushing a bobsled is akin to a resisted sprint that transitions into an assisted sprint," explains Del Duca. "Athletes must generate that power within five seconds before the sled descends. Speed and strength are crucial."
Del Duca recalls reaching speeds of around 97 miles per hour during the Whistler World Championships in 2019, describing the thrill and potential risks involved. "If you crash or collide with a wall at high speed, it's a severe impact," he notes.
Fogt clarifies that bobsled training is quite different from the humorous depictions seen in movies. Instead of unconventional practices, bobsledders undergo training similar to that of football players, focusing on speed, power, and strength in a structured manner.
"You need to be quick and powerful," Fogt explains. "Being just fast or just strong will not suffice. It's about finding the right balance."
Moreover, the WCAP fosters a comprehensive training approach that prioritizes sleep, nutrition, and mental readiness. Fogt credits the program with transforming him from a good athlete into a remarkable one, highlighting the importance of holistic training methods.
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