Yahoo Sports profile highlights physical rigours of Olympic bobsledding

Yahoo Sports published a profile on 17 May 2026 detailing the experiences of Olympic bobsledder Aja Evans, focusing on the physical and psychological demands of her role as a brakeman. The article outlines the extreme conditions inherent to the sport, noting that speeds can exceed 90 miles per hour and athletes may experience G-forces up to five times gravity.

Evans, who competes as a brakeman, is described as providing the initial explosive power necessary to accelerate the sled before the team enters. The piece highlights that tracks are often approximately a mile long, requiring athletes to combine explosive sprint power with weightlifting and technical preparation to navigate icy surfaces filled with dangerous twists and sharp turns.

The physical strain on competitors is significant, with the article noting that the intense forces place considerable pressure on the neck, back, and head. Evans characterises the sensation of racing as similar to having someone jump onto her back while her head rattles violently against the sled, a subjective account that underscores the violent movement athletes must endure to remain controlled.

Beyond the immediate physical challenges, the profile emphasises the mental preparation required for elite competition. Evans likens the psychological shift to becoming a superhero the moment she zips up her speed suit, a metaphor used to describe the mental fortitude needed to face the extreme challenge ahead. This mental toughness is presented as essential, as even minor errors in timing or coordination can impact the final outcome of a race.

The article also positions Evans’ career as a catalyst for greater visibility and diversity in winter sports. By excelling in a discipline that demands complete trust between teammates, she is highlighted for her advocacy regarding women in winter sports and her efforts to challenge stereotypes about who can compete in these disciplines. Her role as a mentor is noted for encouraging more diverse participation in Olympic competition.

The source does not specify which Olympic Games Evans competed in or her specific medal record, nor does it provide metrics regarding the statistical impact of her advocacy. Descriptions of physical sensations and the "superhero" analogy are presented as Evans’ personal accounts or interpretations rather than objective measurements. The piece serves as a qualitative assessment of the rigours of bobsledding and the perseverance required to compete at the highest level.