Bobsled Skeleton NewsNews

USA BOBSLED/SKELETON RENEWS PARTNERSHIP WITH KURIYAMA OF AMERICA

by Abby Slenker

LAKE PLACID, N.Y. (Sept 1, 2023)– The USA Bobsled/Skeleton Federation (USABS) today announced the renewal of their partnership with industrial hose manufacturer Kuriyama of America, Inc., through 2027. 

The association, which began in early 2021, highlights the low-temperature performance characteristics of several of Kuriyama’s Tigerflex™ and Kuri Tec® brand industrial hose and tubing products, in particular, their Kuri Tec “Tundra®” Air and Water Spray Hose. 


The Tundra hose has since been accepted as the official hose of the USA Bobsled/Skeleton Team, based on its performance in track maintenance at their Lake Placid, NY training headquarters. 


“Early in the partnership it was mentioned their hoses, despite having been promoted for low-temperature use, were freezing up on them,” said Steve Frey, Kuri Tec Product Manager. “I advised the Tundra hose was more application matched to their requirements.” A sample of Tundra hose was supplied to the Lake Placid Ice Crew, who noted its ability to remain flexible given the track’s low temperatures, as well as its resistance to kinking over the several hundred feet required to traverse the long length of the track.


During the length of the relationship, Kuriyama has supported the team both on and off the ice. “It’s been a lot of fun learning about the more technical aspects of the sport, as well as its long history.” added Tim O’Neill, Kuriyama Marketing Manager. “That one of our products was actually able to help solve a concern they were experiencing makes it even more rewarding.” 


“We are excited to continue the outstanding partnership with Kuriyama. USABS is grateful for their support of the USA bobsled and teams as athletes strive to be their best and proudly represent the United States in international competitions,” shared Aron McGuire, CEO of USA Bobsled/Skeleton.


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About Kuriyama of America

Kuriyama of America consists of seven distribution centers and five manufacturing plants, which design, develop and produce many renowned hose brands, such as Kuri Tec®, Tigerflex™ and Piranha®. Kuriyama’s international operations include its headquarters in Osaka, Japan, their European operations are highlighted by layflat and fire hose manufacturer Tipsa®, based in Barcelona, Spain. For more information visit www.kuriyama.com or email sales@kuriyama.com.


About USA Bobsled/Skeleton 

USA Bobsled/Skeleton (USABS), based in Lake Placid, N.Y., is the national governing body for the sports of bobsled and skeleton in the United States. For more information, please visit the USABS website at www.usabs.com. Individuals interested in becoming bobsled or skeleton athletes can visit www.usabobsledskeleton.com.