Peggy learns how gravity, friction and wind resistance all play a role in the sport of luge. The Olympic luge event was introduced in 1964 at Innsbruck-Igis, Austria.
Lugers careen down the course feet first while lying on their backs.
The luge sled was originally controlled by a hand-held strap which guided the front of the runner. Now luges are steered by the lugers exerting pressure on the sides of the car with their feet and shoulders. Sliders have limited visibility because of their body position combined with speeds of up to 80 miles per hour. Hairpin turns in the course and rules requiring one of the four runs to be run at night make this event one of the most dangerous in the Olympics. Several physical forces are demonstrated by a luge event.