FIL Asia Luge School brings young athletes to PyeongChang
Development program strengthens luge growth in the Asian region
PyeongChang (FIL/12 Mar 2026) The International Luge Federation (FIL) successfully hosted the Asia Region Luge School in PyeongChang from March 1 to 12, 2026. The development program brought together young athletes from across Asia to train, learn, and gain valuable experience on one of the world’s premier sliding sport tracks.
Organized and delivered by FIL Development, the camp was made possible through the strong support of the PyeongChang Legacy Foundation, which provided funding for accommodation and meals, and the Korean Luge Federation, which covered the training fees. The invitation-only camp was open to national federations from the greater Asian region.
A total of eleven athletes aged 11 to 17 from four nations – Thailand, Chinese Taipei, Japan, and Korea – took part in the luge school. The group represented a balanced mix of newcomers discovering the sport for the first time and young athletes who already had some initial experience in luge.
On the ice, the athletes were guided by experienced coaches from the FIL development program. FIL Development Director Fred Zimny and FIL Youth A coach Bogdan Macovei led the training sessions, supported by one coach from each participating nation. The program focused on fundamental sliding techniques, start training, safety, and athlete development.
“We're thrilled to be working again with our partners from the PyeongChang Legacy Foundation and the Korean Luge Federation on another training camp for Asian region luge athletes,” said Fred Zimny, FIL Development Director. “Over the last four years the FIL, PLF and KLF have annually collaborated on several training camps in PyeongChang, designed to strengthen participation in the region by utilizing one of the best training facilities in the world.”
Zimny emphasized that the program plays an important role in building the future of the sport in Asia.
“FIL Development looks forward to many more years of this partnership, with a goal of six to seven Asian nations participating in our next endeavor. This is also with an eye on increasing participation in the upcoming Youth Olympic Games in 2028 in Cortina.”
The camp continues the FIL’s long-term commitment to global development, using international training hubs such as PyeongChang to introduce new nations to the sport and support emerging young talent on their path into international luge competitions.
