I need a what!? What's that for?!

During my last visit to the training center I had plenty of time to talk with the other girls and guys who have been on the U.S. team in years past.  We shared many breakfasts, lunches, and dinners together discussing all the equipment needed in the sport of bobsledding.  Fortunately as a brakeman I am not responsible for purchasing my own bobsled ($25,000).  That purchase is made by the drivers.  Ouchies! That'll burn a hole in your pocket real fast.  However, because this is my first year I have plenty other items I need to purchase to make it through my first year as a bobsledder... Sometimes I found myself saying, "I need a what!?  What's that for!?" Haha...  Here is goes:

• Gortex running shoes (Nike or Asics) - since many times we are warming up in snow or sleet
• Bobsled spikes - these aren't your normal track spikes... these puppies have a hundred tiny needles in the bottom of them so you can run on the ice.
• One piece body suit - so when your going 75mph down the track your shirt doesn't fly up in the back causing frostbite.
• Mouth Guard - because your teeth chatter while going down the track.. 
• Burn vest - because when you tip over the ice will burn off your skin if you don't wear one and since I'll be the brakeman for most of the development drivers I'm pretty sure I am going to need one of these! 
• Insurance card incase you crash and get hurt.
• A motorcycle certified helmet - because your thrown around like a pinball in the sled.. dont need to lose too many brain cells! 
• Snow pants, coat, boots
• Gloves - so your hands dont get frostbite or get stuck to the metal when your pushing
• Baselayer (for under your clothes)

Aside from all this very interesting equipment there is also airfare and housing costs... Fortunately we split a lot of the housing costs so its not too bad, but it does start to add up.

I have added a Paypal account to my blog.  If you are interested in helping me out with my first season all you have to do is click the "Donate" button to the right.  If you would like you can include your contact information and I will send you personal updates, pics, and little gifts as I continue through this journey.  If you are a business looking to sponsor me we can set up a meeting to discuss marketing opportunities and other sponsorship details.  If you would like to mail donations please email me at Katiestoever@yahoo.com and I can give you my mailing information.

Thank you for visiting my blog and I hope you can live this journey with me! :)

Katie

Check out this seasons schedule:  http://bobsled.teamusa.org/events