Hörnlein won Gold at the 1972 Winter Olympics at Sapporo in the 2 x man bobsleigh event. After his career he became a coach to bobsledders, first for East Germany (1973-90), and later for the British Team. His athletes won world and Olympic medals. He has also worked as a coordinator and trainer for underdeveloped bobsledding countries within the Fédération Internationale de Bobsleigh et de Tobogganing (FIBT).
OCI Chief Executive Stephen Martin said,
“Horst has been utilized in this capacity by the Irish Bobsleigh Association with great success. He steered the team to Olympic qualification and his major championship experience will be vital to Ireland’s Aoife Hoey and Claire Bergin. Since their early arrival on January 31st he has been helping the team understand the track”. He added,
“His guidance through practice and competition runs over the next few days will be crucial. I believe his main influence on the girls will be in helping them to handle the pressure of competing at their first Games from a technical and psychological persective is crucial “
