Bronze for Reuteler
Snowboarder Fabienne Reuteler has added a second medal to Switzerland's Olympic tally after winning bronze in the women's halfpipe.
Less than three hours after Simon Ammann sent Swiss fans wild with his ski jumping triumph, the 22-year-old snowboarder from Zurich managed to complete a memorable opening weekend for Switzerland.
A smooth first run, including a neat 720 degree turn, lifted Reuteler into third place at the halfway stage. Despite falling while attempting another 720 on her second run, the young Swiss had done more than enough to secure the bronze.
“I’m really happy that it went so well,” Reuteler told swissinfo after picking up her medal. “I really enjoyed the ride and the crowd was awesome.”
No disappointment
Having earlier said she would be going all out for gold, Reuteler said she wasn’t disappointed to see America’s Kelly Clark and France’s Doriane Vidal above her on the podium.
“Not at all,” she insisted, “I was just so happy to be on the podium. I thought I rode about as well as I possibly could. It’s always different in competition because you’re nervous but the run felt good and I’m happy.
“I don’t think you can compare the Olympics with any other event,” Reuteler added. “All the best riders are here and it’s such a big event with all the media presence so to win a medal here is the best.”
by Mark Ledsom
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