Top U.S. bobsledder Elana Meyers speaks out amid Lolo Jones uproar

A top American bobsledder has spoken out in defense of her national federation, saying officials were justified in their selections for the 2014 Sochi Olympics.

The U.S. Bobsled and Skeleton Federation has come under fire for naming track star Lolo Jones as one of three push athletes on the squad headed to Russia.

Jones is a relative newcomer to the sport, but also a marquee name who made headlines as a hurdler at the 2012 London Games and 2008 Beijing Games.

While not mentioning Jones by name, American bobsled pilot Elana Meyers stated that criticism of the USBSF -- which has reportedly come from social media and email -- is unfair.

“I have tried to remain quiet as long as possible, but some things must be clarified,” Meyers posted Friday on Facebook. “... Everyone may not agree with the decision, but the fact of the matter is, the numbers supported the selection committee’s decision and 3 athletes were chosen. The three that were chosen have worked hard to earn there spots, and I am proud to call them my Olympic teammates.”

The selection process was difficult, with a number of women tightly grouped for the spots.

“We should be celebrating our Olympians, not tearing them down. I’m amazed that out of all the people asked about the situation, not a single driver was asked about what happened over the course of the season. I am devastated for those who didn’t make the team but I will celebrate for those who did.”

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