Georgian luger Saba Kumaritashvili's participation at the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing will represent the perfect tribute to his late cousin Nodar.
Kumaritashvili, stands at No 47 in the world rankings since making his debut at last year’s Nations Cup in Sigulda, and is his country's sole entrant into the event in China. He is also one of just nine Georgian athletes to be competing in the Games.
Poignantly, the 21-year-old is the same age his cousin was when he was fatally injured in a practice session 12 years ago, on the eve of his own Olympic debut in Vancouver.
Just hours before the opening ceremony, Noda lost control on the difficult 13th turn at Whistler Sliding Centre, a course that had already been the subject of much discussion with competitors voicing fears of its suitability.
His sled was travelling at around 145kmh when it flew over the sidewall near the finish line, and both vehicle and driver collided sickeningly with an unprotected metal support pole by the end of the track.
The youngster was airlifted to a Whistler hospital but resuscitation efforts failed, and with the event already tainted by tragedy, the Vancouver Organising Committee dedicated the opening ceremony to Noda.
His compatriots wore black scarves and armbands in the stadium to honour his passing, while a black ribbon was attached to the team's flag.
However, Kumaritashvili was determined to carry on the family tradition. His great grandfather, Aleko, marshalled the construction of Georgia’s first luge training track and then served as head coach of the national team.
His grandfather Felix and uncle David were also both highly renowned lugers when representing the Soviet Union.
“Every generation of our family had at least one luge sportsman, and now my father and I are continuing this tradition and following Nodar’s footsteps,” he told the Associated Press after qualifying for Beijing.
“Thinking about him is painful but gives me strength as well.”
He added: “I think every sportsman’s goal and dream is to be competing in the Olympic Games, so two years ago I decided to achieve this goal. And here I am.”
In Beijing, the luge takes place at the Yanqing National Sliding Centre, located at the foot of the Xiaohaituo Mountain.
Kumaritashvili and co have already completed their practice runs ahead of the start of the competition on Saturday.
