Cassie Sharpe Unable to Compete in Freeski Halfpipe Final Due to Health
Canadian freestyle skier Cassie Sharpe will be unable to compete in the Olympic women’s freeski halfpipe final due to health concerns following a significant fall during qualification. The incident occurred during her second run on Thursday, and Sharpe lost consciousness. She was subsequently taken off the course on a sled.
Cassie Sharpe’s Health Update
Despite the unfortunate incident, the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC) confirmed that Sharpe has since been released from the hospital and is now at the Athlete Village. However, she has not been medically cleared to participate in the upcoming finals. In a statement on her Instagram, Sharpe discussed her injuries, which include a heavy concussion, a facial contusion, and persistent dizziness. She emphasized that her health is the priority, stating, “it’s just not safe for me to ski tonight.”
Acknowledging Support and Achievement
In her message, Sharpe expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support from fans and fellow athletes. She has received numerous messages well-wishing her recovery. Although unable to compete, she remains proud of her performance in qualifying, where she finished third to secure a spot among the top contenders. “I skied my heart out,” she reflected, highlighting her determination to win a third Olympic medal.
Canadian Representation in the Final
The absence of Sharpe, an Olympic gold medalist from 2018 and silver medalist from 2022, leaves two Canadian competitors in the freeski halfpipe final: Amy Fraser from Calgary, who qualified seventh, and Rachael Karker from Erin, Ontario, who finished ninth. Both athletes will represent Canada as they aim for Olympic success without their celebrated teammate.
- Cassie Sharpe: Olympic gold (2018), silver (2022)
- Current injuries: Concussion, facial contusion, dizziness
- Canadian competitors in final:
- Amy Fraser – 7th in qualification
- Rachael Karker – 9th in qualification
