Team GB Star Zoe Atkin Poised for Historic Gold as Winter Olympics Event Suspended
The women's freeski halfpipe final at the Winter Olympics has been postponed to Sunday due to heavy snowfall in Livigno, Italy, creating a scenario where Team GB's Zoe Atkin could secure a historic gold medal by default. Atkin, who qualified first with a score of 91.50 points, may be awarded the top prize if the event cannot be completed, as medals would be distributed based on the qualification order.
Event Postponement Due to Severe Weather Conditions
Organisers made the decision to reschedule the final at 4.20pm UK time on Saturday, citing persistent heavy snow that prevented the preparation of the halfpipe in a safe and fair condition. The International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) confirmed the postponement, stating that the jury had no alternative but to delay the competition. The final three runs, originally scheduled for Saturday night, are now set for 9.40am UK time on Sunday, the last day of the Milan-Cortina Games.
However, organisers face a critical challenge: all events must be concluded by the end of Sunday, as they cannot be postponed to Monday. The freeski halfpipe final must also be completed before athletes travel to Verona for the Closing Ceremony at 7pm UK time. If weather disruptions persist and the event cannot be held, the qualification results will determine the medal standings.
Zoe Atkin's Path to Olympic Glory
Zoe Atkin, a 23-year-old skier born in Massachusetts with dual citizenship through her English father, has represented Great Britain throughout her career. Her qualifying performance placed her ahead of all 21 competitors, positioning her for a potential gold medal. This would mark a historic achievement for Team GB, as the nation has never won an Olympic gold in a skiing event.
Atkin is the reigning world champion in the discipline, having triumphed in Switzerland in March last year, and she finished ninth in her debut Games at Beijing 2022. Despite the possibility of a default win, the US-based star is hopeful that the final will proceed, allowing her to claim gold without dispute and solidify her legacy in the sport.
Implications for Other Competitors
The suspension of the event has significant ramifications for other top skiers. Defending champion Eileen Gu, who competes for China and is the most decorated female Olympic freestyle skier in history with five medals, faces missing out on a podium finish if the final is cancelled. Gu, who has already secured two silvers at these Games, expressed disappointment on her Instagram story, noting the postponement due to weather.
Additionally, Canadian skier Cassie Sharpe, who has two previous Olympic medals in the halfpipe, would receive bronze based on her qualifying position despite being stretchered off and hospitalised after a serious crash during the qualifiers. Sharpe had not intended to compete in the final following the incident, adding a layer of complexity to the potential medal outcomes.
Team GB's Broader Performance in Livigno
Atkin's potential gold represents Britain's final opportunity for a snowsport medal in Livigno, following a mixed performance by Team GB. Charlotte Bankes and Huw Nightingale previously delivered the nation's first-ever gold in snowsport with their victory in the mixed snowboard cross, but other events have seen a series of near misses. This context underscores the significance of Atkin's achievement, which could cap off the Games on a high note for British athletes.
As the Winter Olympics draw to a close, all eyes will be on the weather in Livigno and the fate of the women's freeski halfpipe final. Whether through competition or qualification, Zoe Atkin stands on the brink of making Olympic history for Team GB.
