Pioneering African Skeleton Racer Shares Olympic Wit and Wisdom

Akwasi Frimpong reflects on being a Black African athlete in the white world of winter sports.

Published on Feb. 25, 2026

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Akwasi Frimpong, a Ghanaian-born athlete who competed for Ghana in skeleton racing, shares his journey to the Olympics and the challenges of being a pioneering African winter sports athlete. Despite not qualifying for the 2026 Games, Frimpong remains committed to inspiring the next generation through his foundation and mentorship.

Why it matters

Frimpong's story highlights the barriers and discrimination that athletes from underrepresented backgrounds often face in predominantly white winter sports, as well as his determination to break down those barriers and inspire others.

The details

Frimpong, who moved to the Netherlands as a child, initially pursued track and field before transitioning to bobsled and then skeleton. He became the first male Black African skeleton racer to compete in the Olympics in 2018. Frimpong chose to compete for Ghana to inspire his home country, despite the challenges of training without access to a dedicated skeleton track. While he faced initial skepticism from other athletes, Frimpong's success in the sport and his positive attitude earned him widespread admiration.

  • Frimpong competed in the 2018 Winter Olympics.
  • Frimpong did not qualify for the 2026 Winter Olympics.
  • Frimpong recently underwent surgery for a ruptured appendix.

The players

Akwasi Frimpong

A Ghanaian-born athlete who competed for Ghana in skeleton racing, becoming the first male Black African skeleton racer to compete in the Olympics in 2018.

Hope of a Billion Foundation

A foundation started by Frimpong and his wife that goes around the world teaching kids about resilience and helping them find their passions.

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What they’re saying

“You're on a cookie sheet sled and it's like 'dude, good luck.'”

— Akwasi Frimpong (NPR)

“Fear is a big part of it, you have to learn how to embrace it.”

— Akwasi Frimpong (NPR)

“When you can help a kid find your passion, they move differently in the world.”

— Akwasi Frimpong (NPR)

What’s next

Frimpong plans to focus on mentoring and coaching the next generation of winter sports athletes from underrepresented backgrounds through his foundation.

The takeaway

Frimpong's story is a testament to the power of perseverance and the importance of representation in sports. His journey inspires others to chase their dreams, no matter the obstacles, and to use their platform to uplift and empower the next generation.