GALLERY: Kelly Sildaru meets the Olympic track for the first time, Henry Sildaru is preparing for his third competition
Freestyle skiers from Estonia, including Kelly Sildaru and Grete-Mia Meentalo, are set to compete in the Milano Cortina Olympics' halfpipe event after Henry Sildaru’s previous attempts in park and Big Air did not advance.
At the Milano Cortina Olympics, freestyle skiers will soon take to the halfpipe, with Estonia represented by three athletes. While Henry Sildaru, the elder brother, has previously participated but failed to advance in either park or Big Air events, the focus now shifts to the female competitors: Kelly Sildaru and Olympic debutant Grete-Mia Meentalo. Their journey has garnered significant attention as they prepare for their events.
On Monday, the trio of Estonian skiers had the opportunity to familiarize themselves with the halfpipe for the first time, marking an important milestone in their Olympic experience. This inaugural encounter with the Olympic track is significant not just for their preparation but also for raising the profile of Estonian ski freestyle on such a grand stage. They are building anticipation for their respective qualifications, which are fast approaching.
The qualification rounds are scheduled for Thursday, with the men’s event starting at 11 AM and the women’s at 8:30 PM. The top 12 athletes will proceed to the finals, slated for Friday and Saturday evenings. With a strong representation from Estonia, the focus will undoubtedly be on whether they can secure a spot in the finals, showcasing their talent on an international platform and inspiring future generations of Estonian athletes.