Emily T Gail Talk Story-John Porter, Luge Coach, Judge, Mentor, Enthusiast

Emily T Gail Talk Story

Did you watch LUGE at the Winter Olympics? Curious to know more about the sport. This is a talk story I had with John Porter 4 years ago on my ESPN Hawaii Emily T Gail Show. I listened to the show again last week after watching LUGE to refresh what John, who has been involved in the sport of LUGE for many years had shared with us. It was so interesting so I am running it again. John explains the development process for luge athletes, the significant differences between natural track and artificial track luge.
He also explains why it can be said that three of the five luge tracks in the country are located in Michigan. The artificial track at the Muskegon State Park which is iced is one. The 2-curve fiberglass track on which wheeled-sleds are used during three seasons in the state park is another. And then there is the half-mile long natural track in Negaunee, Michigan on which competitions at the local, national, continental, and World Cup levels have been held for 29 years.
It was a fun conversation for several reason. Informative however best of all John and I were classmates, played in our high school band together and was great to reconnect.