Winter Olympics 2026: Zoe Atkin qualifies top for freeski halfpipe final
BBC World
February 19, 2026
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Zoe Atkin, a British freestyle skier born to a Malaysian mother and a British father, secured first place in the freeski halfpipe qualifiers for the 2026 Winter Olympics. Her impressive performance at Livigno Snow Park earned her top spot heading into Saturday's final, where she will compete in a best-of-three runs contest. Atkin expressed confidence and excitement about her skiing, noting that qualifying first gives her insight into her competitors' strategies while solidifying her position as a strong contender for the gold.
Atkin’s journey to this moment is marked by years of dedicated competition for Great Britain, including an Olympic debut four years ago. During the qualifiers, she showcased her skills with high-flying tricks over the 6.7-meter-high pipe, thrilling both the judges and her family, who were in attendance. Meanwhile, Canada's Cassie Sharpe, a two-time medalist, struggled during her second run, sustaining an injury that forced her to leave on a stretcher after a heavy crash. This incident highlighted the high stakes and risks involved in the sport, even for seasoned competitors.
The qualifiers were briefly disrupted by heavy snowfall, which postponed the men's halfpipe competition initially scheduled for Thursday. The event will now take place on Friday morning, with British athletes Gus Kenworthy and Liam Richards set to compete. Atkin’s success serves as a testament to her skill and determination, while also drawing attention to the global nature of winter sports and the intense competition at the highest level. Her performance not only boosts Great Britain's medal prospects but also inspires fans worldwide, reminding them of the thrilling athleticism on display during the Winter Olympics.
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Originally published on BBC World on 2/19/2026