Katie Koczynski, Part Four
Express: When you first started skeleton, did you just get onto a normal 1,600M track and do the whole thing? Or did you start on shorter/simpler tracks and work up?
Katie Koczynksi: My first run I went from the Junior luge start. I then went from the Ladies luge start once or twice and then from the top.
Express: If I wanted to try it, where would I go? Are there public skeleton tracks?
Katie Koczynksi: The only two places in the United States where you can try Skeleton are Lake Placid, NY or Park City, Utah. You can contact the U.S. Bobsled and Skeleton Federation to sign up for a "learn to skeleton camp."
Express: Is there a "minor league" for skeleton?
Katie Koczynksi: The sport has grown a lot in the past six years. Now, there are club races and a ton for new people to get involved with. In addition to the World Cup Tour, there is a Europa Cup Tour and an America's Cup Tour.
Express: At what age do skeleton people think about retiring? Why?
Katie Koczynksi: There is no set age for retirement. Some people compete well into their 40's. It takes a lot of time to develop into a good driver and it takes years to learn all the tracks around the world. I think people compete until it's not what they desire to do anymore or they get pushed out by newer, more talented athletes.
"I used to be very superstitious. I've come to realize it's kinda silly...Wearing a certain pair of socks is not going to make or break a race!"
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Express: Have you ever considered trying another winter sport?
Katie Koczynksi: When I was little, I wanted to be a figure skater. Now that I am older, I think that Short Track Speed Skating may be fun. But I think when I am done with Skeleton, I'll stick to soccer and lacrosse for fun.
Express: Many athletes admit to being superstitious -- do you have any rituals or superstitions?
Katie Koczynksi: I used to be very superstitious. I've come to realize it's kinda silly. As long as I am comfortable and refreshed on race day, nothing else matters. Wearing a certain pair of socks is not going to make or break a race!
Express: Besides skeleton and soccer, do you enjoy any other sports? If so, what?
Katie Koczynksi: I love gymnastics! I love watching it on TV and I like going to the gymnastics gym as part of my training. I have been working out at Galaxy Gymnastics in Orangeburg, NY for two years now. It's helped me become stronger and more flexible.
I also ref lacrosse. I played in high school. Other than that, I like to ice skate, hike and run. In addition to these, I would like to get into the martial art jujitsu.
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