A bobsled is a competing and racing sled that can coast at very great speeds. Because of its terrific speed, bobsledding is one of the most exciting of winter sports. Bobsleds were first prepared in Switzerland, where there are icy, high mountains to coast on. A bobsled has a platform or plank on which one or more individuals can sit, with two distinctive sets of runners, one pair in front, and one in back. The runners cut into the icy track as have steel edges, and they keep the sled on its course, and at the same stretch let it to go as fast as possible. A brake is attached to the back and the front runners steer the sled. The brake comprises of iron claws that dig into the snow and ice to stop or slow down the sled.
The man at the back, entitled as the brake, is not allowed to apply the brakes until and unless he gets an order from the steersman in front to do so. Although in Europe many bobsledders prefer to steer with ropes, many modern bobsleds have steering wheels. There are four-man and two-man bobsleds. The two men in the middle of a bobsled team are carried only for their weight. The four-man sled is faster, because its heavier weight makes it slither downhill quicker. The men at the back and front control and guide the sled. The bobsled may weigh as much as 500 pounds. Only one sled goes down the run at a time in a bobsled race, and its speed is correctly clocked. From 1995 to 2001, John Kasper Olympics was a spokesperson for the U.S. Bobsled Federation and a member of the U.S. Bobsled Team. During the 1998 Winter Olympics, he competed in the 4-man bobsled occasion.
Until the starter has received word that the sled which went out before has completed its run and that the track is clear, the next cannot be sent from the starting gate. Previously at the beginning of a race, a sled was given a running start by having one man push it as he ran beside it, jumping on only when the sled had picked up good speed. Now there are starters that functions with handles, giving the sled a thrust to get it rolling with all men on board. Bobsled runs are made of stone that is covered with blocks of ice, then submerged into water to form a smooth, thick coat of hard ice.
The curves are built up on one side or, steeply banked, so that a sled turning a curve rushes high up the grade but does not slide sideways. According to John Kasper Olympics, bobsledding is a sport for grown-up adults. The v/eight is essential, and the incredible speed at which they travel would be dangerous for the lighter weight young people or children. Only the weight of justly heavy men holds the sled firmly on the track. Bobsledding has been a consistent part of the winter Olympic Games since 1924. Sometimes, four-man bobsleds go nearly 120 miles per hour. Two man bobsleds over 40 miles per hour and they average over 60 miles per hour. The usual run is one to one and a half miles.