Olympic gold winner now heads to Winter Olympics in bobsleigh
A remarkable career switch for Kelsey Mitchell. The Canadian track cyclist won Olympic gold in the sprint at Tokyo 2021, but she is now heading to the Milan Winter Olympics as a bobsledder.
The 32-year-old Mitchell was part of the world elite in track cycling for years. She won numerous Canadian and Pan-American titles on the track, claimed a bronze World Championship medal in the sprint, but her absolute highlight came in 2021. That year, she became Olympic champion in the sprint event by defeating Ukraine's Olena Starikova in the Velodrome of Izu.
"After competing again as a track cyclist in the Olympic Games, this time in Paris, she discovered a new challenge and passion in bobsledding. Following a brief stint as a speed skater during the summer months, she made a complete transition to bobsledding," Team Canada writes on its social media channels.
"She fought hard to earn a spot on the national team, and now she’s on her way to Milan-Cortina as a rare dual Olympian, having competed in both the Summer and Winter Olympics. Her journey is part of a larger story."
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Mitchell can't wait to compete as a bobsledder. "I'm really excited. It still feels a bit surreal. I'm 32 years old and still a rookie in this sport. However, I have always been able to count on support, and that feels truly amazing. I am extremely grateful for this opportunity."
