Makes history for U.S.
heats Saturday, a mere one-thousandth of a second away from a medal spot. Knowing the opportunity was there for the taking, he threw down a track-record time in his third heat — jumping from fourth to second and closing the gap on Loch.
In his final run, Mazdzer crossed the line knowing he clinched a medal. The only question was whether it would be silver or bronze. Loch was the only slider left, and his skid sealed the outcome.
There have been 33 men who have represented USA Luge in singles at the Olympics, with a combined 48 appearances between them. The average finish among them had been 19th, with only seven top-10 showings. Adam Heidt finished fourth in 2002, Tony Benshoof was fourth in 2006, and those were as close as the Americans had ever been to the medal stand in this event. Until now. Finally, Mazdzer gave the U.S. what it sought for so long. “It’s great for sure,” Benshoof said moments after the result went final. “Happy for the team and Mazdzer. Anything can happen at an Olympics, for sure.”