Under sunny skies with family support, Summerland’s Kristi Richards placed third during the International Ski Federation World Championships in Deer Valley, Utah on Wednesday.
Richards took advantage of an impeccable, yet challenging course to score a 23.71, while teammate Jennifer Heil, in her final season, won gold with a score of 24.35 and American Hannah Kearney second at 24.31.
Richards said the 250-metre course, one of the steepest on the tour, felt tough.
“I was up there enjoying the moment, enjoying the fact that my parents and my family were in the crowd and just enjoyed the Deer Valley course,” said Richards, adding her result simply meant she performed well. “We also have the dual moguls on Saturday night so I’m looking forward to that.”
The result has given Richards confidence that if she does her best, she can stand on the podium. It was also announced on Wednesday that Richards is an ambassador for ActNow BC.
“The ActNow BC program is really great,” she said. “It connects with so many different schools and kids around the province. That’s amazing and to be able to share my stories and hopefully inspire other kids.”