(ATR) Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili is dead after crashing during a training run in Whistler.
Kumaritashvili, 21, hit his head on a metal pole after losing control of his sled on Friday. The crash came near the end of the run at the Whistler Sliding Centre.
He was ranked 44th in the world and was to compete in his first Olympics.
“We are deeply struck by this tragedy and join the IOC in extending our condolences to the family, friends and teammates of this athlete, who came to Vancouver to follow his Olympic dream”, said John Furlong, VANOC CEO in a statement.
With speeds of up to 150kmh, the Whistler track is considered one of the fastest and most dangerous luge tracks in the world.
Officials with the International Luge Federation (FIL) met with team officials shortly after the crash.
Turin and Salt Lake City gold medalist Armin Zoeggeler crashed during his training run Thursday, as did other top sliders.
Written by Ed Hula III.
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