Mai Brit Teder, the first-ever snowboarder from Estonia, is making her Olympic debut today at the Milan Cortina Winter Olympics in the women's snowboard cross event. Following her 19th place finish at the 2024 Youth Olympic Games, Teder has transitioned to the adult category, aiming for success on this larger stage. Her journey has included remarkable milestones, such as breaking into the top 20 for the first time during a World Cup event in Canada last year, marking her best career achievement so far.

As the Olympic season commenced, Teder faced challenges, finishing 37th in Cervinia and narrowly missing the quarterfinals, repeated by a similar 40th place near miss at a recent competition in Dongbei, China. Adverse weather conditions further complicated her chances for better results, adding to the difficulty of competing in such a demanding sport. This lack of experience at major championships could affect her confidence, making it crucial for her to complete the race and establish her presence on this prestigious platform.

Despite the pressures surrounding her Olympic debut in snowboard cross—a notoriously competitive field—Teder remains determined to finish strong and leave her mark at the event. Although her previous World Championship outing in Engelberg did not yield results, Teder sees the Olympic stage as a vital opportunity to showcase her skills and resilience. Her journey represents not only a personal challenge but also a significant moment for Estonian sports, as she hopes to inspire future generations of athletes in her home country.