Henry and Tõnis Sildaru earn a hefty reward
Henry Sildaru received a €70,000 reward for winning a silver medal in the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics, while his brother Tõnis received €35,000.
The Estonian Olympic Committee (EOK) has decided unanimously to award Henry Sildaru €70,000 for his silver medal achievement in the freestyle skiing event at the Milano Cortina Winter Olympics. This victory marks the 19-year-old's first medal in adult-level championship competitions, highlighting his remarkable talent at a young age. The EOK recognized this achievement as particularly significant given Estonia's small population, where every medal is a noteworthy triumph.
EOK President Kersti Kaljulaid praised Sildaru for this extraordinary accomplishment, stating that winning a medal is often viewed as a utopia for a nation with such a small population. Reaching this success at his first Olympic appearance illustrates Henry's strong character and potential for future competitions. The EOK continues to support and encourage talented athletes like Henry, emphasizing the importance of recognition in enhancing their careers.
To honor Henry’s achievement, a larger celebration was organized at the airport, as he did not receive a traditional welcome upon his return after winning 93 points in the snowboarding halfpipe and becoming the seventh Estonian athlete to medal at the Winter Olympics. Estonia has now won a total of 11 Olympic medals in winter sports, comprising 5 gold, 3 silver, and 3 bronze medals, reflecting the country's growing capabilities in winter sports under challenging circumstances.