Menachem Chen, a standout track and field athlete from Arkansas State University, has been selected for Israel's historic bobsled team at the 2026 Winter Olympics. The junior, who holds the program record in discus, will compete as a brakeman in the four-man event. His inclusion marks a significant achievement for the Red Wolves program.
Menachem Chen, a junior at Arkansas State University, has earned a spot on Israel's bobsled team for the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milano Cortina, Italy. As a brakeman on the four-man squad, Chen helped the team secure an Olympic berth after finishing fifth in the North American Cup on January 11. The qualification was confirmed on January 22, following strong performances that also included his prior experience in two-man bobsled.
Chen's transition from track and field to bobsled highlights his versatility. At Arkansas State, he holds the program record in the discus throw with a mark of 188 feet, 11 inches. In 2025, he won the Sun Belt Conference outdoor championship in discus and earned bronze in the shot put, earning All-Sun Belt honors. He also qualified for the NCAA Prelims in 2024, showcasing his prowess in throwing events.
The Olympic bobsled competition is set to begin on February 21 in Milano Cortina. Chen's selection represents a milestone for Israel's bobsled program, which is making history at the Winter Games. His dual athletic background underscores the growing crossover between summer and winter sports at the collegiate level.