Kirsty Muir Pursues Big Air Redemption After Olympic Slopestyle Heartbreak
After narrowly missing out on an Olympic medal, Kirsty Muir, a 21-year-old freestyle skier from Team GB, is focused on redemption. Muir fell just 0.41 points short of bronze in the slopestyle event at the Olympic Games, finishing in fourth place. Despite the heartbreak of being so close to a medal, she is determined to shift her focus to the upcoming Big Air competition.
Kirsty Muir’s Slopestyle Journey
Muir’s path to the Olympics was marked by impressive performances, but the slopestyle event proved challenging. In the final, she faced pressure after struggling with her initial jumps, which included a double cork 1080. Ultimately, her final run allowed her to secure a solid score, but not enough for a podium position.
Emotional Reflection
After the event, Muir expressed mixed feelings. “Fourth is such a hard place to be in, especially at the Olympics,” she shared. Despite the disappointment, she took pride in her skiing abilities. “I managed to reset after not landing two runs and get it down on my third run,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of mental resilience.
Upcoming Big Air Competition
Looking ahead to the Big Air event, Muir is eager to capitalize on her recent experiences. “I’ve been feeling really good with my skiing,” she stated. “I just want to carry that on and try to put down the best tricks I can in the Big Air.” The format of Big Air, with only two tricks over three runs, allows her to concentrate on her performance without the complexities of slopestyle.
Support from Team GB
Muir’s teammate, Mia Brookes, also experienced challenges in her Big Air final, finishing fourth but attempting a groundbreaking backside 1620. Muir was present to support her friend during the event, highlighting their strong camaraderie. “I was gutted for her as well,” Muir said, acknowledging the emotional toll of competing at such a high level.
Embracing the Challenge
Muir is embracing the challenge of competitive skiing. With insights from seasoned athletes like Charlotte Bankes, she is preparing mentally and physically for the upcoming Big Air competition. Reflecting on her journey, Muir said, “I think I’m always going to have that hint of being close, but I’ve got to take the positives.”
Conclusion
As Kirsty Muir gears up for her Big Air competition, she remains optimistic. The heartache of her slopestyle performance will serve as motivation for future success. With determination and support from her teammates, Muir aims to achieve her Olympic dreams.
