American luger Bengt Walden now is, well, American

Olympic luge hopeful Bengt Walden is officially an American citizen. Walden recited the pledge of allegiance in Boston on Thursday, one of 396 newly naturalized citizens of the United States. Born in Sweden, Walden began racing for USA Luge three years ago, but needed citizenship to represent the U.S. at this winter's Vancouver Olympics. Walden is married to fellow American luger Ashley Hayden Walden. Walden called the ceremony "emotional in some ways" and said, "It's very nice to have that over with." USA luge excused him from Friday's second day of the national trials in Lake Placid, New York, and he'll rejoin the team for training next week.