In luge, start height refers to the specific point on the track where a rider begins their run. Not every race starts from the very top of the course.
Different Starting Points
Luge tracks have multiple starting ramps located at different elevations. Officials choose the start height based on the category of the athlete:
- Men’s Singles: These athletes start at the highest point of the track to reach the maximum possible speed.
- Women’s Singles and Doubles: These athletes usually start from a lower position on the track, known as the “Junior” or “Women’s” start.
- Youth Categories: Younger or less experienced riders start even further down the track to ensure they can navigate the curves safely at lower speeds.
Why Start Height Matters
Speed Control
The higher the start, the more time gravity has to accelerate the sled. By moving the start height down, officials can control the top speed of the riders, making the race safer for specific groups or during dangerous weather conditions.
Track Difficulty
Starting higher up often forces the rider to navigate more curves. A lower start height might skip the first few turns, changing the technical challenge of the course.
Fairness and Consistency
In a single competition, all athletes in the same category must use the exact same start height. This ensures that every rider has the same distance to build momentum, making the split times and final results fair.
Training and Safety
Coaches often have athletes use a lower start height when learning a new track. As the rider becomes more comfortable with the turns, they move up to a higher start height to increase their speed.