Olympics: Elena Gaskell Shines in Freeski Slopestyle Competition
Elena Gaskell, a talented freeskier from Vernon, has competed in the women’s Freeski Slopestyle event at the 2026 Olympic Games in Italy. This event took place early Saturday morning, 1:30 a.m. PST. Gaskell’s performance, marked by two falls, resulted in a best score of 15.06, placing her 23rd in the qualifying round. Only the top 12 athletes are eligible to advance to the finals.
Gaskell’s Olympic Journey
At 24 years old, Gaskell faced a significant milestone as the first athlete from Okanagan to compete in these Olympics. Despite her struggles during the runs, she maintained a positive outlook, sharing on Instagram, “Couldn’t put a run down today but that’s how it goes sometimes. Still hyped to be here and on my skiing this week. On to the next event.”
Competition Highlights
- Event: Women’s Freeski Slopestyle
- Location: Italy
- Time: 1:30 a.m. PST
- Gaskell’s Score: 15.06
- Ranking: 23rd in qualifying
- Qualifying Cut: Top 12 for finals
Elena Gaskell is not alone in her Olympic pursuit. Canadian athletes Megan Oldham and Naomi Urness qualified for the finals, scheduled for early Sunday morning. In the slopestyle event, competitors navigate a course featuring various rails and jumps. They are judged on the breadth, originality, and quality of their tricks.
Looking Ahead
Next week, Gaskell will participate in the Freeski Big Air event, showcasing her skills once again. This competition holds special significance for her, especially since she faced a setback four years ago. In 2022, she suffered an ACL tear just one day before her planned Olympic debut in Beijing.
Elena Gaskell’s determination and resilience shine through, establishing her as a prominent figure in the world of freesk skiing. Fans eagerly anticipate her next event as she continues her Olympic journey.
