Following Canadian Women Freestyle Skiers to Vancouver

CTVolympics.ca
February 23, 2010

McIvor takes gold in ski cross

Canadian racer Ashleigh McIvor has won the Olympic gold medal in ski cross at Cypress Mountain.

McIvor, the reigning world champion, took the lead in each heat going into the final and beat out Norway's Hedda Bernsten.

"This is the most amazing thing, this is the most amazing moment of my entire life," McIvor said immediately following the race.

"I was standing in the start gate thinking everything in my life is leading me here.

"There's nothing more I could have done to come here better prepared."

McIvor, of Whistler, B.C., was ranked second overall on the World Cup circuit going into the Games behind France's Ophélie David who was eliminated in the quarterfinal.

"It's in my hometown pretty much, what more could I ask for?" McIvor said.

Marion Josserand of France secured the bronze medal.

Canadian Kelsey Serwa placed fifth overall after dominating the small final.

Teammate Julia Murray did not advance to the semi-final despite a strong rally in her quarterfinal run from the last position.

Danielle Poleschuk did not advance to the quarterfinal after a fall.