Ava Darbellay, a young athlete from Lumsden, Sask., has recently transitioned from training for biathlon to exploring the sport of luge. This shift came about after she participated in the RBC Training Ground program, where she was scouted as one of the top 100 finalists. The initiative, run by the Canadian Olympic Committee, aims to identify promising athletes and provide them with elite training opportunities.
Despite having no prior experience in luge, Darbellay seized the chance to try something new when she was invited to Calgary for specialized training earlier this year. Her interest in various sports led her to select multiple options on the RBC Training Ground qualifier form, showcasing her willingness to embrace new challenges.
Following her training in Calgary, Darbellay is now gearing up for the RBC Training Ground national final in Vancouver, where she will compete for funding and support alongside other talented young athletes. Her background in biathlon has equipped her with a solid foundation, with her dedication evident through her frequent training sessions at the Qu’Appelle Valley Nordic Ski Club.
Luge coach Dania Obratov highlighted Darbellay’s exceptional physical abilities during the testing phase, emphasizing the importance of strength, speed, and coordination in the technically demanding sport of luge. Obratov expressed confidence in Darbellay’s potential for success in luge, underlining the significance of starting training at a young age.
Looking ahead, Darbellay may spend significant time at the only full-time luge track in Canada located in Whistler, B.C., if she progresses further in her luge journey. Despite her newfound focus on luge, Darbellay reassured that she is not abandoning biathlon entirely, maintaining her passion for both sports.