### Skeleton Sport and Olympic Medalists: A Comparative Analysis

**Introduction**

Skeleton is a winter sliding sport in which a person rides a small sled, known as a skeleton bobsled (or -sleigh), down a frozen track while lying face down and head-first. The sport is characterized by the high speeds and the athelete's precision in maneuvering with slight movements of the body. 

**Evolution of the Sport**

The sport of skeleton can trace its roots back to the late 19th century where it originated in St. Moritz, Switzerland, as a form of sledding. The name "skeleton" is believed to derive from the bony appearance of the sled used in the early years. Over the decades, the sport has evolved, especially in terms of equipment and safety measures. It was included in the Olympic Winter Games sporadically, making its first official appearance in 1928 and then again in 1948, both times in St. Moritz. After these two occasions, skeleton did not feature in the Olympics until it was fully reinstated as an Olympic sport in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City.

**Olympic History and Medalists**

In the context of Olympic history, the sport of skeleton has seen a varied participation globally, with some nations dominating more than others, often depending on the availability of training tracks and tradition in sledding sports.

### Answer A: John Heaton as a Medalist

John Heaton, an athlete from the United States, notably became the second Olympic medalist in men's skeleton during the 1928 Winter Olympics held in St. Moritz, the inaugural event for skeleton racing in the Olympics. Heaton's success did not end there; he made a historic return at the 1948 Winter Olympics, which were also held in St. Moritz, and managed to secure a medal again. His achievements were remarkable considering the 20-year gap and the shifts in the sporting landscape. 

### Answer B: Countries without Olympic Medalists in Skeleton

In contrast to early adopters like the United States, many countries have not had as much exposure or success in the sport of skeleton. The reasons range from lack of facilities and cold weather conditions suitable for winter sports, to lesser governmental support and recognition of the sport. Therefore, in these nations, the answer to the question of the second Olympic medalist in skeleton would be that there is none. This highlights the disparities in sporting success globally, which can be attributed to economic, geographic, and cultural factors.

**Cultural and Geographic Influence on the Sport**

The countries with notable success in Skeleton, such as the United States, Canada, Germany, and Russia, usually have strong winter sports cultures and the necessary facilities to support and develop talents from a young age. Whereas in countries with warmer climates or where winter sports are not traditionally popular or supported, skeleton remains a lesser-known, and often unpracticed, sport.

**Conclusion**

The history and development of skeleton as an Olympic sport underscore not only the changes in sports technology and training but also reflect broader societal and geographic disparities. John Heaton's achievements show the early American prowess in ice track sports, while the absence of medalists from other countries sheds light on the challenges and limitations faced by nations lacking the infrastructural or climatic advantages. As countries progressively build facilities and increase training programs, the landscape of skeleton, like many other sports, may see a more diverse set of competitors and champions in future Olympic Games.