'Cover your ears': Special bond behind Bobsled Bree's rise

If you want to win a gold medal, who better to enlist as a mentor than someone who's already done it?

That's the case for Australia's Olympic Winter Games medal hope Bree Walker, who gave a special insight into the professional and personal relationship she shares with 2010 gold medallist Lydia Lassila.

Walker beamed into Nine's coverage from Cortina with Lassila on the panel next to host Allison Langdon.

Watch the Winter Olympic Games Milano Cortina 2026 live and free on Channel 9 and 9Now. Plus, every event live & on demand, every medal in 4K, and exclusive international coverage on Stan Sport.

Langdon asked Walker about the influence of the former aerial skiier, and it gave an indication into how much they push each other.

"We're not the lovey dovey type, we don't tell each other how much we love each other so Lydia cover your ears when I say nice things about you," Walker said.

"But I do love you," Lassila replied before Walker chuckled and added an "I do adore you, just cover your ears".

On the Olympic Winter Insitute of Australia's website, Walker lists Lassila as her adult hero, along with Serena Williams, and it's clear they have a special bond.

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"I wouldn't be the athlete or person I am today without her (Lassila)," she said.

"Five years ago Lydia taught me everything she knew about how to step it up, to perform at the top level, to be a constant medal contender and I have learnt so much from her over the years.

"She became somebody I looked to for guidance in many different things; in performing, in coaching decisions, injury management but also just life in general. I was very, very lucky to have Lydia in my life."

Lassila gave a round of compliments back before laughing and saying "you do exactly what I ask of you, you do what you're told".

Walker's last Winter Olympic Games was at Beijing in 2022 where she finished fifth in the women's monobob event.