NEGAUNEE, Mich. (WZMQ) –
Young lugers from across the Midwest descended on Negaunee this weekend for the Junior Midwest Luge Championships – a competitive field of roughly twenty athletes, including several ranked among the best in the world for their age group.
At least one member – Brock Bartol, of the U.S. Luge Team was also on the track, adding to the high level of competition. Organizers that set up the competition, such as vice president of the U.P. Luge Club, Rich Matthews, say the annual event continues to attract top junior talent from across the region.
“A number of the participants are local sledders,” says Matthews. “We do also have some sledders from Wisconsin, from the Oshkosh and Green Bay area… The sledders are allowed two runs, and their combined times determine their placement in the rankings – first, second, third, and so on.”
Spectators lined the course, cheering on the young competitors as they raced for podium spots. For those inspired to give the sport a try, organizers say the Negaunee track will remain open to the public for a few more weeks – weather permitting – as the snow begins to melt.
