Lake Placid, N.Y. — In an unexpected twist, Kaysha Love’s journey to worldwide bobsled success was significantly aided by the expertise of a renowned figure in the sport. Infamously, the greatest bobsledder had a crucial role in her triumph.
This story began as Love, alongside U.S. bobsled coach Brian Shimer, prepared for her initial World Cup race as a pilot in December 2023. They meticulously analyzed the track at La Plagne, France, scrutinizing each subtle aspect with the help of an iPad. During this session, the legendary German bobsledder Francesco Friedrich joined their discussion. Friedrich has achieved unprecedented victory levels in the sport, offering his insights on the iPad. Without hesitation, Love handed over the device, and with great care, Friedrich illuminated the track’s essential characteristics.
“I was astonished,” Love recounted. “It was surreal.”
Her debut at La Plagne went spectacularly, as Love clinched the monobob race victory, an achievement she secured early in her World Cup journey.
Fast forward to a recent Sunday, and Friedrich had just adorned himself with another accolade, acquiring his historic 15th world championship with a victory in the two-man world title. Remarkably, later that very day, Love, in the mere second season of her full-time career, garnered her inaugural world title by dominating the monobob competition.
Although it may seem unusual for a German to assist an American—considering the intense competition between the two on the ice track—Friedrich approaches this situation with a unique perspective. His goal is the sport’s continuity. For him, every athlete, regardless of nationality, deserves support if it aligns with maintaining the sport’s presence at the Olympic level. In fact, Friedrich has a history of donating his own funds to assist various teams, including a notable contribution to a U.S. sled.
“It’s crucial for us to support each other,” Friedrich elaborated. “Our community is small, and sustaining the sport’s inclusion in the Olympics is vital. Helping other nations grow is a necessary step to prevent our sport from vanishing. Its disappearance would be a tragedy for all involved.”
Having dedicated over a decade to bobsledding, Friedrich offers a veteran’s perspective, while Love still navigates her path as a relative novice. Despite his extensive achievements, Love embraces her role as the eager learner, often the subject of lighthearted jabs for her many-layered attire in the cold. Yet, both found themselves sharing the spotlight atop the winners’ podium at Mount Van Hoevenberg as world champions.
“I’m on a journey, discovering new things every day,” Love expressed. “While this progression feels unique to me, it’s not the standard path. I owe a lot to the guidance I’ve received along the way.”
