USA Cycling's Senior Data Analyst Ryan Cooper joins us to talk about Project 4:05, the quest to win the women's track cycling team pursuit gold medal at Paris 2024.

The US wasn't considered much of a contender for the podium--defending gold medalists Germany and reigning world champions Great Britain were considered to be the main teams vying for the top prize.

However, Ryan developed a process to uncover more with data analytics using machine learning and real-time analytics to optimize rider selection, race strategy and aerodynamic efficiency.

If all went according to plan, Team USA's riders Jennifer Valente, Lily Williams, Chloe Dygert and Kristen Faulkner could top the podium with a time of 4:05.

Hear Ryan's process, the race results and the subsquent major award beyond the gold medal that USA Cycling received for this endeavor.

Follow USA Cycling on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok!

In Milan-Cortina 2026 news, we have updates on ticket sales, volunteers, sneakers and the construction of Arena Santa Giulia, the new ice hockey stadium. International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons also has high hopes for improved accessibility.

In news from TKFLASTAN, we hear from Alison Levine, Kim Rhode and Dick Pound.

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

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

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Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.

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