Ben Lynch: First Irish Skier to Reach Winter Olympics Final, Calls It Mindblowing
Benjamin Lynch, a 23-year-old skier from Dublin, made history as the first Irish athlete to reach the finals in the Men’s Freestyle Halfpipe at the Milano Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics. His journey to the final was marked by determination, showcasing impressive skills in Livigno, Italy.
Significant Performance in Qualification Round
Originally scheduled for February 20, the halfpipe qualification event was postponed by a day due to adverse weather conditions. However, Lynch did not let the delay affect his performance. In his first run, he scored 57.00, setting the stage for a remarkable second attempt.
In the second round, Lynch exhibited exceptional skill, scoring 75.75, which secured him a place in the final 12. This score was a personal best and demonstrated his ability to execute high-level tricks, including a right double cork 12, a maneuver he had not previously performed in competition.
Impact of His Performance
After qualifying, Lynch expressed his excitement, stating, “I’m officially an Olympian and officially a finalist as well, which is just mind-blowing.” His emotional response highlighted the significance of this achievement, not only for himself but for Irish skiing as a whole.
Aspiring Olympian’s Journey
Ben Lynch’s journey to the Winter Olympics has been a blend of dedication and resilience. Moving from Dublin to Canada at the age of two, he began to ski in Vancouver and started competing at age 12. Initially focusing on slopestyle and big air, he transitioned to halfpipe at 19.
- Born: Dublin, Ireland
- Age: 23
- First competitive ski experience: Age 12
- Transitioned to halfpipe: Age 19
- Moved to Canada: Age 2
- 2025 Calgary World Cup finish: 23rd place
Lynch’s dedication has paid off, culminating in his successful debut at the Winter Olympics. This event marks a proud moment for his family and for Ireland’s representation in winter sports.
What’s Next for Lynch?
With the finals of the Freestyle Halfpipe set for this evening at 6:30 PM Irish time, viewers can watch Lynch’s performance on RTÉ Player, BBC, and TNT Sports. As he prepares for this significant moment, Lynch hopes to further push the boundaries of his performance and inspire future generations of Irish skiers.
