Section 3: Playing Area
3.1 Track Specifications
Bobsled tracks are purpose-built, artificially refrigerated ice channels. Track construction uses reinforced concrete with embedded ammonia or brine refrigeration pipes to maintain ice temperature. Key dimensions:
- Total length: 1,200–1,650 m (3,937–5,413 ft)
- Vertical drop: 100–150 m (328–492 ft)
- Average gradient: 8–15%
- Number of curves: 15–20, including at least one labyrinth (S-curve combination)
- Minimum curve radius: 20 m (66 ft)
- Wall height in curves: Up to 6 m (20 ft) in high-speed banked sections
- Ice thickness: 3–5 cm (1.2–2 in) on the refrigerated concrete surface
3.2 Start Zone
The push-start zone is approximately 50 m (164 ft) long with a gentle gradient of 2–5%. The surface is ice-covered, and crew members use spiked shoes for traction during the sprint. Electronic timing begins when the sled breaks the first light beam. Separate start positions exist for different events: four-man and two-man typically start from the top, while women's events and monobob may start from a lower position depending on the track.
3.3 Finish Area
The finish area includes a deceleration straight of at least 100 m with gradually increasing incline to slow the sled naturally. A mechanical braking area follows. Electronic timing beams capture finish time to 1/100th of a second. The finish zone must accommodate sled retrieval and provide safe exit for crew members.
3.4 Notable Olympic Tracks
There are fewer than 20 active sliding tracks worldwide. Notable venues include the Yanqing National Sliding Center (2022 Beijing), Alpensia Sliding Centre (2018 PyeongChang), Sanki Sliding Center (2014 Sochi), and the historic St. Moritz–Celerina Olympic Bobrun — the only remaining natural ice track used for international competition.