BEIDA LAKE, China (Dec.15) – Olympian Ashley Caldwell (Ashburn, VA) took second at the aerials World Cup opener on Sunday, her first aerials competition in over two years. It brought Caldwell halfway to Olympic selection, as she earned one of the two required podiums in the qualification period. Li of China won the competition. Caldwell was the only foreign top-five finisher in the women’s event. Mike Rossi (Long Valley, NJ) finished eighth in the men’s competition, taking the top spot for the U.S. Freestyle Ski Team. The aerialists now head to Beijing for a World Cup in the famous Bird's Nest stadium Dec. 21-22.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Olympian Ashley Caldwell (Ashburn, VA) took second at the aerials World Cup opener in Beida Lake, China on Sunday, her first competition in over two years after multiple knee injuries.
- The finish brought Caldwell halfway to Olympic selection, earning one of the two required podiums in the qualification period.
- It was her first World Cup since Feb. 2011 in Minsk, Belarus, where she also finished second.
- Ashley's final jump was a full, double full.
- Nina Li of China won the competition. Caldwell was the only foreign top-five finisher in the women’s event.
- Mike Rossi (Long Valley, NJ) finished eighth in the men’s competition, taking the top spot for the U.S. Freestyle Ski Team.
- Rossi’s second jump was by far the biggest jump of the day, but he couldn't get it to his feet.
- Three U.S. freestyle athletes made it through the qualifications round.
- Dylan Ferguson (Amesbury, MA) and Emily Cook (Belmont, MA) both had issues with their landings, which cost them the opportunity to move forward in the event.
- The aerialists now head to Beijing for a World Cup in the famous Bird's Nest stadium Dec. 21-22.
- Aerials will be stateside Jan 9-11 for the Visa Freestyle International in Deer Valley.
QUOTES
Ashley Caldwell
I couldn't be happier about my results here in China. This was my first competition back after taking two years off for knee surgeries. Returning from injury is tough and really nerve-wracking, but landing some nice jumps here has given me the confidence for the rest of this exciting World Cup season. And coming back to an awesome team makes it even more fun.
Todd Ossian, Head Aerials Coach
I couldn't be more proud of Ashley. This is an unbelievable return to World Cup competition and a huge step forward for her this season. She is an exceptional athlete and this is only a small stepping-stone for her. More remarkable results to come!
RESULTS
Official Men’s Results
Official Women’s Results
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