Today was the last day of competition for the kiwi delegation at the first Winter Youth Olympics Games in Innsbruck, Austria. The constant snowfall today has been a novelty to the team! Many snowballs have been thrown. At 9am this morning, Luke Steele took to the ice in his mixed curling competition. He had a tough draw facing a Russia/USA combination, and lost 10-3. Kelsi Heath played her quarter-final in the afternoon against a Germany/Sweden pairing. The competition came down to the last end, and Kelsi missed out on advancing to the next round by 6-5. Although our curlers did not reach the finals, the level of competition and play has been very beneficial for our young players. We will keep an eye on these up and coming curlers. Alpine Skiier Harry Izard-Price had his last competition up on Patscherkofel today. He finished 23rd in his Slalom event. The Youth Olympic Games have been a busy time for our alpine skiiers who have raced in 5 separate events during this period! This competition will hold Harry and Piera in good stead for their future international races. Callum Burns, Eleanor Adviento and Sarah van Ballekom had the incredible opportunity to attend an athletes session with IOC President Jacques Rogge. The President recognised Eleanor from her loud cheering at the curling rink. Callum asked the President how the Ice Hockey Skills Challenge contributed to the Olympic Movement. Mr Rogge thought that the skills needed for this competition translated well into everyday life. Tonight our athletes, coaches, managers and parents went to a local pizzeria and had an enjoyable dinner together. Chef de Mission Peter Wardell says that the dinner was a "Great way for to celebrate the success of all our athletes and to thank the parents in attendance for their support during Games time." Weather permitting, tomorrow the whole team is heading up to Nordkette for the Mountain Snow and Fun workshop. Athlete Role Model and three-time Olympian Barbara Kendall will be joining us too! The Closing Ceremony will take place at Congress tomorrow evening. Keep posted on our facebook page for pictures and updates!
Tweet Share