Lucas Pinheiro Braathen Claims South America’s First Winter Games Medal in Giant Slalom
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen has made history by securing South America’s first medal at the Winter Games. The Brazilian ski racer triumphed in the Olympic giant slalom event held in Bormio, Italy. With a remarkable final run, he completed the two-run combined time in just 2 minutes and 25 seconds, edging out Switzerland’s Marco Odermatt, the defending Olympic champion, by 0.58 seconds.
Historic Achievements in Alpine Skiing
The 25-year-old athlete’s victory is monumental for Brazil and South America, making him the first Brazilian Olympic medalist in Alpine skiing. Following his win, Pinheiro Braathen expressed his joy, celebrating the achievement with his fans.
- Event: Olympic Giant Slalom
- Location: Bormio, Italy
- Time: 2 minutes, 25 seconds
- First Medal: South America’s first Winter Games medal
Competition Recap
Pinheiro Braathen’s journey to the gold medal was marked by determination and skill. He started strong, maintaining composure despite challenging weather conditions, including snow and fog. His performance not only highlighted his athletic prowess but also captivated spectators back home. Brazil celebrated with colorful festivities as the country is currently in its Carnival season.
- Gold Medalist: Lucas Pinheiro Braathen
- Silver Medalist: Marco Odermatt (Switzerland)
- Bronze Medalist: Loic Meillard (Switzerland)
A Symbol of Inspiration
Pinheiro Braathen, son of a Brazilian mother and a Norwegian father, initially raced for Norway but re-emerged to compete for Brazil after a brief retirement. He has previously made headlines as the first Brazilian Alpine racer to reach a World Cup podium and the first to secure a World Cup victory this season.
He emphasized the significance of his win as a source of inspiration for young athletes. “It doesn’t matter where you’re from. What matters is what’s inside,” he stated. His passion and cultural pride are evident, as he sports “Vamos Dancar” written on his helmet, a nod to his Brazilian roots.
Celebrating with Fans
During the victory celebrations, fans gathered at “Casa Brasil” in Milan, donned in Brazil’s yellow and green colors. They cheered energetically, expressing their support for the newly crowned Olympic champion.
Brazil’s President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva also recognized this historic achievement, commending the dedication shown in Brazilian sports. He highlighted the impact of this win on future generations, emphasizing limitless potential.
Pinheiro Braathen’s victory at the Milan Cortina Games marks a significant milestone for South America and serves as a testament to his hard work and determination in the world of Alpine skiing.
