USA Bobsled and Skeleton is to host nine open events across the country in an attempt to unearth new talent ©USA Bobsled and Skeleton

USA Bobsled and Skeleton is to host nine open events across the country in an attempt to unearth new talent who could potentially compete for medals at the Pyeongchang 2018 Winter Olympics.

The organisation hopes to find athletes who excel at other sports who could potentially make the switch to the ice track.

Bobsleigh in particular has a strong association with athletics, with many sprinters finding their talent and pace helps with pushing the sled.

These include American Lauryn Williams, who became only the fifth person to win a medal at both Summer and Winter Olympics at Sochi 2014.

On the athletics track she won gold in the 4x100 metre relay squad at London 2012, adding to a bronze she collected over 100m at Athens 2004.

In Sochi, she won two-woman silver with partner Elana Meyers Taylor.

“Historically, our open combine test format has been really successful finding those athletes who can help build our programmes long term and the top recruits can often have an immediate impact on our programme,” said USA Bobsled assistant coach Mike Dionne.

“This summer’s recruiting will focus heavily on those top recruits.

Lauryn Williams, right, won bobsleigh silver at Sochi 2014 with Elana Meyers Taylor
Lauryn Williams, right, won bobsleigh silver at Sochi 2014 with Elana Meyers Taylor ©Getty Images

"We are looking for those special athletes who believe they have what it takes to represent their country at the highest level and have dreams of competing for Olympic medals."

The first event will be held on June 10 in Park City, Utah, with Colombia, Colorado Springs, Bradenton, Lake Placid, Gaithersburg, Geneva, San Francisco and Houston on the schedule after that.

Other converts to bobsleigh and skeleton have come from American football, football, softball and hockey.

Interested athletes can find more information here.