“I’m at peace with it”: A chapter ends for skeleton pilot Jeff Bauer

March 25, 2026 — Tageblatt
By Chrëscht Beneké

The dream of the Olympic Games drove Jeff Bauer for all these years. His age was no obstacle – on the contrary: the ambitious athlete always focused on further improvement. While Jared Firestone, a competitor of similar strength for many years, narrowly qualified for the Games this year, finishing 39th, Bauer himself slipped to 85th in the world rankings. The 52-year-old is now hanging up his dream – but not his sled.

At the North American Cup in Lake Placid on January 11, Jeff Bauer jumped on his sled for the last time in an international competition and finished 26th out of 31. Photo: John Bauer

Tageblatt: Another Olympic season has come to an end. How are you?

Jeff Bauer: I feel good. And I’m satisfied with what I’ve achieved this season. It wasn’t enough to qualify for the Games, but I gave it my all. I’ve continued to improve this season, so I’m happy. This chapter is now coming to an end, but I’m at peace with it. I’ve accomplished a lot and learned a great deal. It was a great honor to be able to compete at this level. Continue Reading →