What's it like to pioneer a sporting tradition in your country? Irish skeleton racer Brendan Doyle joins us to talk about his efforts as a solo athlete (Ireland currently has no funding for winter athletes) to qualify for Milan-Cortina 2026 and become an Olympian.

Follow Brendan on Insta and X, and check out his website. Brendan has also founded BuildThroughSport, a non-profit that aims to highlight the character-building aspects of sport, show how taking up sport can build positive attributes that can contribute to success in all aspects of life, fund sports organizations and athletes so more people can participate in sport.

In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison looks Ireland's participation at these Olympics, including what happened in the boxing ring.

In news from TKFLASTAN, we've got the rest of the results from the Pan American Games, including an impressive medal haul and an Olympic qualifier!

In Paris 2024 hospitality house news, tickets are now on sale for Lotto Belgium House and Team GB House (open to the public for the first time!).

In Milan-Cortina 2026 news, the sliding track situation has truly turned into a novella (it's been so long since we've had one!)--and the IOC has some words for the Organizing Committee on what they should do.

Don't forget that our Kickstarter is live--help us get to Paris to give you the coverage of Paris 2024 that you deserve!

For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.

Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!

Photo courtesy of Brendan Doyle.

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Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown

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