Australian aerial skiers have achieved a historic milestone by sweeping the top four positions at the prestigious World Cup event in Deer Valley, USA. This marks the first time Australia has claimed all podium spots in any winter sport.
Two-time world champion Laura Peel led the charge, securing her third consecutive victory and the 12th win of her illustrious career. Defending World Cup champion Danielle Scott finished second, followed by Abbey Willcox in third and Airleigh Frigo in fourth.
The competition took place on the famed 2002 Olympic course, where athletes faced unpredictable weather conditions. Warm temperatures led to the cancellation of two training days, and heavy snowfall on the event day forced the qualification round to be rescheduled to the evening session.
In challenging conditions, Laura reduced her degree of difficulty, performing a double somersault jump. She scored 87.88 points for her full-full double twisting double somersault and advanced to the super final in first place. Abbey, Danielle, and Airleigh also executed the same jump, securing second, third, and fourth positions with scores of 82.53, 79.38, and 78.12, respectively.
During the super final, athletes repeated their qualification-round jumps. All four Australian skiers chose the full-full jump, with Laura clinching the gold with a score of 87.57. Danielle took silver with 86.31, Abbey secured the bronze at 81.58, and Airleigh finished fourth with 69.30.
“This is so special. Every World Cup podium I’ve had has been here in Deer Valley, so it’s great to continue that streak,” said Abbey, 28, from Brisbane. “It’s an honor to share this moment with two other Aussies and to make history with a clean sweep.”
Danielle, 34, from New South Wales, expressed her excitement: “It’s incredible, Deer Valley feels like my second home. To achieve this sweep with Laura, Abbey, and Airleigh in fourth is history-making. It’s a fantastic moment for Australia.”
Laura, 35, from Canberra, added, “I’m thrilled to have the yellow bib and to have three back-to-back wins. Tonight was truly special, with an Aussie sweep of the podium, and Airleigh in fourth. It’s a great feeling.”
Rookie Flying Kangaroos Sidney Stephens, Elise Coleiro, and Reilly Flanagan were unable to make it to the finals, finishing in 14th, 15th, and 24th places, respectively.
After four events, Laura remains at the top of the World Cup standings with 310 points. Danielle has moved into second with 224 points, while Abbey and Airleigh are in eighth and ninth places with 138 and 133 points, respectively.
The next World Cup aerial skiing event will take place in China on February 23-24 at Beidahu ski resort.
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