In a thrilling qualification round for mogul skiing at the Olympic Games, Canadian athletes Mikaël Kingsbury and Julien Viel secured their spots in the finals. The event took place on Tuesday in Livigno, where conditions were challenging due to low visibility.
Mikaël Kingsbury’s Performance and Insights
Mikaël Kingsbury, known for his extensive experience in the sport, finished third in the qualifications with a score of 79.11. Despite facing difficulties from the flat light, Kingsbury expressed a “semi-satisfied” sentiment regarding his performance. The 31-year-old skier, recovering from an injury sustained last summer, emphasized the importance of moving forward.
“It wasn’t my best run, but the objective was clear: qualify for the finals,” Kingsbury stated. He acknowledged that the top ten skiers would advance directly, while the remaining competitors would have to compete for a final spot.
- Qualification Score: 79.11
- Rank: 3rd
- Next Steps: Directly qualifies for the finals
Julien Viel Shines in First Olympic Appearance
Julien Viel showcased his talent by achieving a second-place finish with a score of 79.56. This marked his debut at the Olympics, and he managed his nerves with a personal routine that included focusing on the surrounding mountains and encouraging himself.
- Qualification Score: 79.56
- Rank: 2nd
- Olympic Debut: First-time participant
Despite the less-than-ideal conditions, Viel stated, “I felt lucky to be here. I focused on the jump and executed my routine.” His keen mental preparation contributed to his success in securing a spot in the finals.
Competition Overview
The qualification round was competitive, with Japanese skier Ikuma Horishima leading the pack with an impressive score of 85.42. Kingsbury praised his performance, recognizing that these qualifications are just the beginning of the Olympic journey.
- Top Qualifier: Ikuma Horishima – 85.42
- Kingsbury’s Insights: “The Olympics aren’t won today.”
Meanwhile, Elliot Vaillancourt participated but finished 16th, necessitating additional efforts to qualify for the finals. As the Olympic Games progress, athletes will aim to capitalize on their experiences and improve in upcoming rounds.
Both Kingsbury and Viel’s performances reflect their dedication and preparedness as they head into the finals, bringing excitement for the Canadian contingent in the mogul skiing event.
