Canada's freestyle skiing sensation, Megan Oldham, has done it again! She's captured the nation's attention with her incredible performance at the Olympics, securing her second medal in the big air event.
But don't let her petite frame and charming smile fool you, as her coach J.F. Cusson reveals a hidden power. He affectionately calls her 'Mighty Meg', and for a good reason. This 24-year-old from Parry Sound, Ontario, has proven herself a force to be reckoned with on the slopes.
Oldham's journey to the top was not without its challenges. On Monday, she overcame a 75-minute weather delay to claim the gold medal in the women's big air competition at Livigno Snow Park. This triumph came after she bravely recovered from a terrifying crash during her second run in the slopestyle event on February 9th, which earned her a bronze medal.
Oldham's dominance was evident from the start, leading the big air competition after the first two runs. With a combined score of 180.75, including an impressive 91.75 on her first run, she secured the gold before her final attempt. China's Eileen Gu, a silver medalist in slopestyle, took second place with a score of 179.00, followed by Italy's Flora Tabanelli at 178.25.
And here's where it gets interesting: Oldham's victory is even more remarkable considering the physical and mental battles she's endured. She suffered a concussion during training in November, resulting in memory loss of the entire day, including her time in the hospital. This setback forced her to take a month-long break from training, creating a significant mental challenge.
But Oldham's determination is what sets her apart. She returned to the slopes after a month and a half, ready to conquer her fears. And conquer she did, as these Olympics became a redemption story for her. In the previous Games, she narrowly missed the big air podium, finishing fourth, and just missed the slopestyle final. But this time, she was hungry for change.
The final was not without its drama. A sudden snowstorm delayed the start, requiring workers to clear excess snow from the course. Oldham, as the top qualifier, was the last to go in the first round. She flawlessly executed a switch double 1260 and a double cork 1260. In a bold move, she attempted her most challenging trick, a switch double 1440 mute grab, on her final run, but unfortunately fell.
Controversy alert: Some might argue that Oldham's decision to attempt her biggest trick on the final run was risky, especially with the gold medal already secured. But Cusson reveals a strategic decision to save the big tricks for the end, which ultimately paid off.
Oldham's athletic background is just as fascinating. A former gymnast and figure skater, she was introduced to freestyle skiing by her brothers, who encouraged her to ski off the roof of their garage. This daring act, which left their father furious, was just the beginning of Oldham's fearless journey.
The big air competition is not for the faint of heart. Athletes reach speeds over 50 km/h as they descend a 40-degree incline from a 55-meter jump, launching themselves into the air to perform their tricks. It's a high-risk, high-reward event, and Oldham has mastered it.
Comment hook: What do you think about the risks these athletes take? Are the rewards worth the potential injuries? Share your thoughts below!
The competition took a toll on several athletes. Two-time slopestyle champion Mathilde Gremaud suffered a hip injury during training and had to be stretchered off the course. Switzerland's Anouk Andraska also withdrew due to a wrist injury. Despite these challenges, the competition showcased incredible talent.
Eileen Gu, with her unique heritage, continues to make history. Born to an American father and Chinese mother, she now has five Olympic medals, including two silvers from these Games. And her journey isn't over yet, as she still has the freeski halfpipe event to come.
Flora Tabanelli, the reigning FIS world champion, demonstrated incredible resilience. Despite a torn anterior cruciate ligament, she chose rehabilitation over surgery to compete in these Games. Her determination earned her a spot on the podium.
Oldham's success is a testament to her resilience and mental fortitude. She openly shared her physical pain after the slopestyle crash, but her unwavering commitment to her sport drove her to push through and excel.
This thrilling report from The Canadian Press, published on February 16, 2026, was a collaboration with The Associated Press, bringing you the most captivating stories from the world of sports.
