I grew up in Utah and started skiing when I was 3 years old. Eventually, my hatred for frozen toes surpassed my desire to hit the slopes, but that didn’t mean I lost my love of watching others speed down the mountain in winter events. I think anyone who sticks with this sport is talented, though I’m particularly fascinated by aerialists.
When the FIS Freestyle Ski World Cup came to Utah last week, I didn’t miss it. The events were held at Deer Valley Resort in Park City.
Both the men’s and the women’s aerials were impressive; personal records were made and wipeouts were shrugged off.
In the finals, USA’s Mac Bohonnon placed second in the men’s aerials while Guangpu Qi, representing China, placed first with a record score. In the women’s aerials, USA’s Ashley Caldwell and Kiley McKinnon placed first and second, respectively.
I hope other college students in Utah realize how special this state is. The amazing mountains are just minutes away, with great ski resorts, which provide the unique opportunity of observing athletes train or participate in competitions.
Men’s aerials top scores:
1. Guangpu Qi, China, 138.50
2. Mac Bohonnon, USA, 128.51
3. Oleksandr Abramenko, Ukraine, 128.51
Women’s aerials top scores:
1. Ashley Caldwell, USA, 99.78
2. Kiley McKinnon, USA, 95.52
3. Xiaoxue Shen, China, 83.54