SESTRIERE, ITA (January 22, 2011) – The day started on a positive note for Christopher Williamson, from Markham, Ont., and his Mont-Tremblant, Que.,-based guide Robin Fébin, who were second by only 0,06 seconds after the first run of the giant slalom race in the men’s visually impaired category at the IPC World Championships.
They were confident that they had what it took to beat Spain’s Yon Santacana and his guide in the second run and claim gold.
But Williamson made a costly mistake during his warm-up run and crashed, leaving him with a dislocated and broken wrist.
“When Chris fell, he dislocated and fractured his left wrist. He also suffered other injuries but we are still waiting to know the nature of them,” said Canadian Para-Alpine Team doctor Warren Thirsk from the hospital in Torino where Williamson is being treated.
“He has been admitted for tests and observation and is in good hands with all the medical staff on deck,” added Dr. Thirsk.
Williamson will not return to competitive skiing this season.
“It’s heartbreaking,” said Fémy, who has been guiding Williamson since last April. “He was so close to the top of the podium and right before the second run he got injured. I’m sad for him and hopefully he will have a speedy recovery.”
Spruce Grove, Alta.-based athlete Kirk Schornstein had another top 15 today as he finished 14th. Schornstein was consistent and impressive throughout his first IPC World Championships this past week.
Competing in the men’s standing category, he finished in the top 15 four times with a 12th place finish in downhill and a 13th place in super-G and super combined.
“We are all very happy with Kirk’s consistent performances at this race series. He has made some big improvements from his debut season on the international circuit last year, and is definitely closing the gap on the leaders,” said Brianne Law, Athletic Director, CPAST.
“It is encouraging to see such results at such a young age, and we are looking forward to continuing to work on all aspects of Kirks skiing and conditioning,” added Law.
In the ladies standing category, Karolina Wisniewska from Ottawa, Ont., finished in sixth place.
The last Canadian to take part in today’s race was Josh Dueck, of Vernon, B.C., who finished in fifth place in the men’s sitting category.
The athletes will take part in the team event tomorrow; the final event of the 2011 IPC World Championships.
The Canadian Para-Alpine Ski team will be competing in slalom race on Friday. It will be screened live on Paralympic Sport TV. To watch, go to: www.paralympic.tv.
SESTRIERE, ITA– JANUARY 22, 2011 - IPC WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS – M & L GIANT SLALOM
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