LAKE PLACID — The International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation Executive Committee on Friday approved USA Bobsled and Skeleton’s request to host the Continental Championships for Pan-American nations.

The Continental Championships will run alongside the IBSF World Cup in Lake Placid from March 16 to 23.

IBSF will be following the definition of Pan-American countries provided by the International Olympic Committee and the Association of National Olympic Committees. This list includes the United States, Canada, Puerto Rico, Brazil and Trinidad and Tobago.

“Despite winter sports not typically being associated with North, Central and South American countries, these nations play a crucial role in international competition,” USABS CEO Aron McGuire said. “By incorporating the Pan American Championships and the Junior Pan American Championships into the bobsled and skeleton season, we are thrilled to highlight the participating countries. We firmly believe that these events will encourage even more countries in the region to participate and engage in the sports.”

The Continental Championships will adopt a race-in-race format during the World Cup, following the model of the European Championships. Athletes not meeting World Cup standards can participate, with their results contributing solely to the Pan American Championships.

The Junior Pan American Championships will mirror the Junior European Championships, featuring a race within a race during the IBSF North American Cup races from March 2 to 10 in Lake Placid.