Canadian snowboarding icon Mark McMorris, a three-time Olympic bronze medallist, was stretchered from the training course on Wednesday night following what has been described as a "heavy crash" during preparations for the Milan Cortina Winter Games.
Incident Occurs Hours Before Opening Ceremony
The alarming incident unfolded as the 32-year-old athlete, who is poised to make his fourth Olympic appearance, was practising for Thursday night's qualifying round in the big air discipline. This occurred merely 24 hours before the official opening ceremony of the Games, casting a shadow over the Canadian team's preparations.
Details of the Crash Emerge
During the big air event, competitors launch from an imposing ramp constructed on scaffolding that stands over 50 metres (165 feet) tall in Livigno, performing multiple spins before landing. Witnesses reported that McMorris appeared to spin out awkwardly upon landing, with his head or neck seemingly making contact with the ground.
He remained motionless for approximately one minute before the medical team arrived at his side. Officials confirmed that McMorris was conscious as he was carefully placed onto the stretcher and transported from the venue.
Team Confirms "Heavy Crash"
The Canadian team issued a brief statement acknowledging that McMorris had suffered a "heavy crash" during training. They indicated that further information regarding his condition would be provided as it becomes available. Team officials have not yet responded to specific inquiries about the extent of his injuries.
A Storied Career Marred by Previous Setbacks
Despite never having secured an Olympic gold medal—unlike his teammates Max Parrot and Sebastien Toutant—McMorris is widely regarded as the most recognisable figure on Canada's highly successful snowboarding team. He holds an impressive record of 22 X Games medals, including 12 golds across slopestyle and big air disciplines.
This incident represents another serious injury setback for the resilient athlete. In 2017, McMorris sustained life-threatening injuries after colliding with a tree during a backcountry ride. That traumatic event resulted in a rod being inserted in his leg and plates in both his arm and jaw—additions to numerous other injuries sustained throughout his demanding career.
Recent Optimism Contrasts With Current Concern
Just last month, McMorris expressed confidence about his physical condition heading into his first Olympic Games in his thirties. In an interview with The Associated Press, he remarked, "I've been feeling pretty good, staying strong and putting quite a bit of effort in the gym to build a robust frame, because what we do can be a little tricky at times on the body."
The snowboarding community and fans worldwide now await updates on McMorris's condition, hoping for positive news about the athlete's recovery as the Winter Olympics officially commence.
