Mark McMorris, a seasoned Canadian snowboarder, faced a serious incident during big air training on Wednesday night in Livigno, Italy. The three-time Olympic bronze medalist crashed and required assistance, being transported off the course on a stretcher. This event occurred just a day before the qualifying rounds for the upcoming Milan Cortina Games.
About Mark McMorris
The 32-year-old athlete is preparing for his fourth Olympic event. McMorris has a notable track record, with all his Olympic medals earned in slopestyle and four out of twelve X Games titles in big air. Big air snowboarding was included in the Olympic program in 2018.
Training Accident Details
In big air competitions, snowboarders perform multiple spins after launching off a ramp that exceeds 50 meters (165 feet) in height. The ramp at Livigno is a remarkable structure built on scaffolding. Officials from Canada’s snowboard team responded to inquiries regarding McMorris’ condition but had not provided updates at the time of reporting.
Health Background
McMorris has a history of severe injuries, including life-threatening ones from a 2017 accident where he collided with a tree during a backcountry ride. He has undergone significant surgeries, including the insertion of a rod in his leg, a plate in his arm, and another in his jaw.
Preparations for the Olympics
Despite past injuries, McMorris expressed confidence about his health leading into the Olympics. He mentioned that he has been dedicating himself to strength training in the gym, aiming to maintain a strong physical condition. “What we do can be a little tricky at times on the body,” he noted.
Upcoming Event
The Olympic qualifying rounds are scheduled for Thursday night, approximately 24 hours before the opening ceremony of the Milan Cortina Games. As McMorris recovers, the snowboarding community watches closely, hoping for positive news about his condition.
