February 20, 2018 7:34 pm

Wednesday, Gary O’Reilly and Chuck Nice Go Downhill, Fast

This week on Playing with Science, Chuck Nice and Gary O’Reilly are strapping in and heading downhill in the third episode of our Olympics collection as they explore alpine skiing.

To start things off Gary and Chuck chat with Team Canada Olympian Erin Mielzynski and popular Playing with Science sports physicist John Eric Goff about the physics of slalom skiing. Erin takes us through what it’s like to be at the start of a race, John weighs in on the physics at work, and we find out which is more aerodynamic for woman: braided hair or a ponytail – it makes a difference.

Up next, Chuck and Gary chat with Jake Stevens, US race director at Rossignol, one of the top ski equipment companies in the world. Jake takes us behind-the-scenes of developing world class skis for world class athletes ranging from 11-year-olds to Olympic champions. We also break down the different types of skis, how skis have evolved over the years even with rules in place, and whether some athletes and coaches are hesitant about the technological advances now available. Also, Chuck can’t help but ask Jake about the development of rocket skis.

Lastly, Gary and Chuck welcome back John Eric Goff to join in their conversation with Andrew Weibrecht, Team USA skier and Playing with Science listener! Andrew tells Chuck and Gary the story behind his nickname, “War Horse.” John explains the forces being exerted on Andrew as he goes down the mountain, and Andrew gives us a lesson in speed.

Alpine skiing is a staple in the Winter Olympics and one of my favorite sports to watch. This episode serves as a perfect companion piece as you sit back and watch the world’s best race for the gold.

Please join us tomorrow night for Olympic Alpine Skiing, with Erin Mielzynski and Andrew Weibrecht at 7pm ET right here on our website, as well as on our Playing with Science channels on Apple Podcasts, Google Play Music, SoundCloud, Stitcher, and TuneIn. If you’re an All-Access subscriber, you can watch or listen to this episode ad-free at 7pm, too. (Warning: Adult Language)

That’s it for now. Keep Looking Up!
–Ian Mullen