Picente And Hamlin Announce Return Of USA Luge Summer Slider Search

USA Luge Search Returns To Utica August 16^th and 17^th

Joined by Woman’s Luge Olympic Bronze Medalist Erin Hamlin of Remsen and Mayor Robert Palmieri of Utica, Oneida County Executive Anthony J. Picente, today announced that young Oneida County athletes who want to emulate Hamlin’s amazing run in Sochi while training under the guidance of USA Luge National Team coaches can do so when the USA Slider Search returns to Utica on August 16^th and August 17^th.

“Oneida County is pleased to announce the return of the Summer Slider Search by USA Luge. This is the first step that can lead to a future in one of the world’s fastest sports. Our very own Erin Hamlin started out right here at a slider search just like this. I encourage any young person who has shared Erin’s dream and watched her experience in Sochi to give this competition a try.”

USA Luge annually offers the summer slider search to recruit candidates between the ages of 9 and 13 who can become the world’s fastest athletes on ice. The clinics will be held from 9am to 12pm and 2pm to 5pm on both days. The event is free of charge and open to all Oneida County youth.

“This is a chance for a young athlete to actually get on a sled and see what the luge is all about, and to see if they want to make the kind of commitment that it takes.” Hamlin said “I’m very excited that USA Luge is able to bring this great event back to Oneida County so that all of the young people who I have come to meet can have their chance to give it a try.”

Mayor Robert Palmieri said “The last Slider Search was a tremendous success and in working with County Executive Picente and USA Luge, we anticipate another successful event.  This is a great opportunity for the youth in our area to learn more about this exciting and growing sport.  I thank Erin Hamlin for her advocacy of this program and for her outstanding representation of our region.”

During a USA Luge Slider Search Clinic, USA Luge Coaches and athletes teach young people the basics of riding a luge sled, including position, steering and stopping. Armed with the basics, the athletes make several runs down a paved street on wheeled sleds. Finally, athletes measure their physical skills through a battery of fitness tests. Those who show the most promise are invited to train in Lake Placid or Park City Utah.