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Teen’s silver pushes Olympic case

Ben Barclay is pinching himself after finishing in a career-best second place at the Freeski Slopestyle World Cup in France.

It was the first World Cup podium for the 19-year-old Aucklander, who is hoping to be selected for the upcoming Winter Olympics in Beijing, China.

‘‘Right now it doesn’t seem too real, the goal was far exceeded today,’’ Barclay said.

‘‘Our plan was to have a safe run to help secure Olympic selection, but everything just fell into line and I couldn’t be happier.’’

Barclay launched himself onto the podium after the judges scored his second run 82.71. However, with 11 skiers still to drop in, it was a nerve-racking wait.

‘‘For the first six skiers I was pretty calm as I didn’t think it [second position] would hold, given the remaining 11 athletes were some of the best in the world.

‘‘When it got to the last five skiers, I was feeling anxious and nervous.

‘‘Once it got to the last two skiers, I realised I had a confirmed podium finish, and all the weight was lifted off my shoulders.

‘‘When I found out I had snagged second place it was the best feeling anyone could ever ask for.’’

Andri Ragettli of Switzerland won the event with a score of 86.36 and Edouard Therriault of Canada finished third with 81.71.

Barclay is hoping to find out this week if he has been selected for the Winter Olympics.

Sport

en-nz

2022-01-18T08:00:00.0000000Z

2022-01-18T08:00:00.0000000Z

https://fairfaxmedia.pressreader.com/article/282312503437882

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