Gerrits bounces back from early crash but Sochi aerials podium eludes
SOCHI, Russia – Freestyle skier Travis Gerrits bounced back from a crashed first jump to make the final eight of the men’s aerials on Monday night, though an Olympic podium dream eluded the 22-year old Ontarian.
“My first jump was actually phenomenal in the air, but unfortunately I did a little double front foot upon landing on the hill. But I am pleased with the second one.”
With the first six already through, Gerrits had one more chance to advance in Qualification 2 where a score of 112.39 put him through to Final 1.
“It was a tough one to come back from,” Gerrits admitted of the crash but nonetheless, he made the most of his opportunity finishing sixth in the first final where top eight made it to Final 2.
That’s where Gerrits ended his first Olympic adventure. Only four jumpers moved on to Final 3 and Gerrits’ score was just 3.10 shy of eventual silver medallist, David Morris of Australia, in the final qualification spot.
Anton Kushnir of Belarus won gold and Zongyang Jia, one of two Chinese finalists, took home bronze.
