Caribbean sprinters are hoping to transform Winter Olympic bobsledding - Los Angeles Times

Los Angeles Times

by Kevin Baxter

February 14, 2026

AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary

Caribbean sprinters are making waves in the Winter Olympics by transforming bobsledding through their unique blend of athleticism and cultural heritage. Teams from Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and other Caribbean nations are leveraging their rich sprinting traditions to compete on the global stage, challenging the sport's traditional European dominance. Despite facing significant hurdles like limited funding and access to world-class facilities, these athletes are proving that talent can come from unexpected places. The story begins with Axel Brown, Trinidad and Tobago’s bobsled pilot, who realistically acknowledges his team’s long odds of winning medals but remains optimistic about the sport's growth. The Caribbean nations’ participation in bobsledding has become more common over the years, with 11 Caribbean and South American countries, including Puerto Rico, now competing in the Winter Games. This shift is partly due to the sport's reliance on speed, explosive power, and acceleration—traits that sprinters naturally possess. The article highlights how sprinting talent from the Caribbean is being repurposed for bobsledding, offering athletes like Micah Moore of Trinidad an alternative path to success. However, the transition isn’t easy; many struggle with fear and the physical demands of the sport. Despite these challenges, Brown and others believe that with time and resources, Caribbean nations can build competitive programs. A major obstacle is funding. Many teams lack access to state-of-the-art facilities or financial support, making it difficult to compete with wealthier nations. Trinidad, for instance, is using an outdated sled borrowed from another country, underscoring the need for investment in equipment and training. Without these resources, even the most talented athletes

Verticals

newscalifornia

Originally published on Los Angeles Times on 2/14/2026