Ethan Kruger could be going to the Olympics, in a sport he’d never considered.
The 14-year-old Chilliwack Senior Secondary student was recently named one of the 100 finalists in RBC Training Ground, the Canadian Olympic Committee’s official cross-country talent search.
He was identified by Luge Canada.
“When I heard from Luge Canada, I didn't really even know what luge was,” said Kruger. “Having the opportunity in Whistler to experience luge during the sport specific testing was awesome. I guess I did well enough that they saw my potential to develop in luge. I love speed and competition, and the adrenaline rush is amazing.”
Kruger normally participates in track and basketball. He was one of 2,500 athletes (aged 14-25) from a wide range of sports who participated in free local qualifier events across the country, performing core speed, strength, power and endurance tests in front of Olympic talent scouts.
Next, Kruger and the rest of the 100 selected athletes will compete at the RBC Training Ground national final, Nov. 2 in Halifax. Thirty athletes from the final will earn funding, a spot on Team Canada with one of twelve partner National Sport Organizations, and an accelerated path to the Olympics.
“Ethan has a strong interest in luge, the athletic abilities needed, and a real enthusiasm for learning and developing in the sport,” said Sam Edney, Luge Canada's high performance director. “We’re excited to see how he does at the final.”
