Olympic Bobsledders Hit the Road in Style
As the countdown to the 2026 Milano-Cortina Winter Games begins, Team USA bobsledders Frank Del Duca and Josh Williamson are revving up not just for their races, but also for a unique ride in the Men’s Health Muscle Car—a Maserati GranTurismo. This isn’t just any car; it’s a symbol of speed and power, much like the athletes themselves.
A Ride to Remember
During their ride with Men’s Health fitness director Ebenezer Samuel, Del Duca, who also serves as an Army Sergeant, couldn’t contain his excitement. “Look, an Audi RS 6 right by the Maserati! I’m going to get you into a race,” he joked, showcasing his passion for cars. This playful banter set the tone for a conversation that would dive deep into the world of bobsledding.
The Road to Gold
Del Duca and Williamson, both aiming for a strong finish in the two-man bobsleigh event, shared insights into their rigorous training. “Start fast, don’t make mistakes, know the track,” Del Duca emphasized. Williamson added, “Find speed in your equipment.” Their focus on precision and teamwork is crucial, especially when racing against the clock.
The Tech Behind the Thrill
When asked about the technology that plays a role in their sport, Del Duca explained, “It’s hard to quantify, but the equipment is very important. We’re racing, so it’s a lot like auto racing.” Williamson chimed in, noting that Germany is known for keeping their tech under wraps, making them formidable competitors.
Battling the G-Force
The physical demands of bobsledding are immense, with athletes experiencing significant G-forces. Del Duca, who sits in the front, highlighted the importance of core strength, mentioning the Pallof press as a key exercise. Williamson, on the other hand, swears by back squats for overall strength. “If you can be a strong human, you can handle Gs better,” he said.
The Lighter Side of Competition
Their camaraderie shines through in their playful banter. When asked who’s stronger, Del Duca quipped, “It depends on the lift!” Williamson added, “Definitely Frank,” but both agreed that strength is vital in their sport. They even joked about their morning coffee rituals, revealing their different approaches to downtime.
The Bobsled Experience
The conversation took a humorous turn when they discussed the challenges of eating in a bobsled. “That would be a challenge trying to eat anything at all,” Del Duca laughed, while Williamson noted that the sport’s rough nature can lead to nausea. “One of our teammates used to take Dramamine,” he shared, shedding light on the sport’s physical toll.
A Glimpse into Their World
As they prepare for the Olympics, Del Duca and Williamson are not just focused on their performance. They’re also enjoying the journey, including memorable encounters with celebrities like Snoop Dogg. “It was cool,” Del Duca recalled, reflecting on how surreal it was to meet someone he admired while pursuing his own Olympic dreams.
With the Milano-Cortina Games on the horizon, these bobsledders are ready to take on the world, both on the track and off. As they gear up for their races, one can’t help but wonder: what other adventures await them in the fast lane?
