VANOC says family of killed Georgian Olympic luge athlete qualifies for insurance payout

Family of killed luger will get insurance payout

VANCOUVER, British Columbia — The family of the Georgian luge athlete who died in a training crash on the Olympic track hours before the Vancouver Games formally opened last month will receive an undisclosed insurance settlement.

Vancouver organizing officials say Nodar Kumaritashvili’s family qualifies for a death benefit. VANOC took out insurance on the approximately 5,000 members of the Olympic family, including athletes, for the games.

It’s unknown when Kumaritashvili’s parents will receive the money.

The International Luge Federation already has donated about $14,000 to the family, and other private fundraising efforts are under way for Kumaritashvili’s survivors as well.