On a summer trip meant for bonding, Kailey Allan witnessed Beattie Podulsky’s comical mishap involving a spider web and a tumble down a hill. These two athletes from Calgary are set to make history as the first Canadian women in the women’s doubles luge event at the Winter Olympics in Cortina, Italy. Their partnership began in 2024, where they aimed to build chemistry and communication quickly as a newly formed duo.
To enhance their teamwork, Allan and Podulsky embarked on a trip to New Zealand last summer, living in a van for two weeks to solidify their connection. Amidst funny incidents like Podulsky’s spider web encounter and toe injury, their journey together strengthened their communication skills.
Women’s doubles luge debuted at the world championships in 2022, marking a significant shift in the sport previously dominated by male participants. Podulsky expressed pride in breaking barriers and showcasing the capabilities of women in the challenging discipline of doubles luge.
The unique dynamics of doubles luge, with two athletes on a sled, present a steeper learning curve and require precise coordination. Despite the challenges, Allan and Podulsky have shown resilience and progress, securing a bronze medal in the team relay at the 2025 world championship.
Their training grounds in Calgary and Whistler have been crucial in honing their skills, with additional support from working as restaurant servers during the off-season. As they head to the 2026 Olympic Games, Allan and Podulsky are poised to leave their mark in Canadian sports history, aiming to inspire more women to venture into women’s doubles luge.