Coach says Kingsbury races like a Formula One car
Coach Michel Hamelin compares Olympic skiers Alex Bilodeau and Mikaël Kingsbury, highlighting their differing styles, with Kingsbury being more precise like a Formula One car.
In an insightful commentary on the contrasting styles of two elite freestyle skiers, coach Michel Hamelin reflects on his experiences coaching Alex Bilodeau and Mikaël Kingsbury. Bilodeau, who notably achieved Olympic gold in 2010 and 2014 and was a three-time world champion, is described by Hamelin as akin to a rally car—resilient and rugged, yet occasionally rough around the edges. His ability to complete races despite challenges, such as skiing with a broken ski, demonstrated a raw tenacity that defined his approach to the sport.
In contrast, Hamelin characterizes Mikaël Kingsbury, a competitor in his fourth Olympics, as similar to a Formula One car—precise, adjustable, and consistently performing at a high level. He notes that Kingsbury's finesse allows him to navigate courses with great skill, making fine adjustments that enhance his performance. Kingsbury's achievements, including multiple medals across three Olympic Games, underline his mastery in mogul skiing, and Hamelin emphasizes the importance of technique over brute strength in Kingsbury's approach.
This analysis not only highlights the remarkable talent of both athletes but also encapsulates the evolution of freestyle skiing techniques over the years. As the sport continues to develop, the upcoming Milan Cortina Games are set to showcase these unique styles on a global stage, with expectations high for Kingsbury to leverage his precise technique and possibly add to his medal tally, while also honoring Bilodeau's legacy in the sport.