Olympics
Jackie Wiles of Portland, OR will be unable to compete at the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018, according to the United States Olympic Committee and U.S. Ski & Snowboard reports usskiandsnowboard.org.
Wiles suffered injuries to her left knee and leg Saturday, Feb. 3rd in a crash during a FIS Ski World Cup in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, Germany, won by teammate Lindsey Vonn.
“I am completely devastated and heartbroken that I’m unable to compete in my second Olympic Games, but this is the nature of our sport and I must stay positive,” said Wiles. “My teammates who have come back from injury give me hope that I too can come back stronger. Now I’ll shift my focus to rehabbing and getting strong for next World Cup season, and the 2022 Olympic Games in Beijing. I will be rooting very hard for my teammates – who make up a strong women’s speed squad – and look forward to returning and joining them again next year!”
Wiles is one of three U.S. athletes to score a podium finish in women’s downhill this season with her third-place finish in the event in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, and a fifth place in the downhill at Lake Louise, Alberta, to open the speed season.
“We are all extremely disappointed that Jackie suffered this injury so close to the Games,” said Luke Bodensteiner, U.S. Ski & Snowboard Chief of Sport. “It’s a big loss to our alpine ski team, especially after her very strong results this season. We will do everything we can to support her in her rehabilitation and we’re already looking forward to seeing Jackie back in competitive action, stronger than ever, as soon as possible.”
The USOC and U.S. Ski & Snowboard have not yet determined if her spot will be replaced under the team quota.
All the best in recovery !! Just had my knee replaced.