Winter Olympics: Snow forces postponement of ski halfpipe and aerials
Heavy snowfall in Livigno has forced the postponement of men’s ski halfpipe qualifying and men’s aerials at the Winter Olympics.
More than half a foot of snow blanketed the Italian mountain town on Thursday morning, causing significant logistical challenges for organisers.
The men’s aerials competition has been rescheduled for Friday, though a new start time for the ski halfpipe is yet to be confirmed.
This delay impacts several medal hopefuls, including the American duo of Alex Ferreira and Nick Goepper.
Schedule disruptions continue
Despite the adverse conditions, women’s halfpipe qualifying remains scheduled for Thursday evening.
That event is set to feature defending champion Eileen Gu, provided the course can be cleared in time.
Forecasters expect weather conditions to improve for Friday and Saturday, which mark the final two days of action at the Games.
This latest interruption follows a week of volatile weather that previously forced officials to reshuffle the snowboard slopestyle contests.
Those finals eventually took place under sunny skies on Wednesday, seeing China’s Su Yiming and Japan’s Kokomo Murase claim titles.
Muir misses out on medal
Earlier in the week, the Big Air final involving Team GB’s Kirsty Muir faced similar delays due to a heavy flurry just before the start.
The final eventually went ahead, but ended in heartbreak for the British teenager as she narrowly missed the podium for the second time in a week.
Having finished fourth in slopestyle, the Scot appeared well-placed to secure a medal after sitting in second place following two runs.
However, she could not hold onto her position and ultimately finished fourth once again.
Reflecting on her performance, Muir admitted to mixed emotions regarding her Olympic campaign.
“I’m a bit up and down at the moment. I’m not really sure how to feel. I put it all out there so I’m really proud of that.”
“On the third run, I went for a trick I haven’t landed before so I gave it my all and I am taking that with me. It’s a little bit bittersweet but I came into this competition today feeling really grateful and I think I’m still at that point.”