Jacobellis' grab loses grip on gold
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Whatever the case, Lindsey Jacobellis paid a heavy price for a light touch yesterday as her apparent attempt to embellish clearance of the last obstacle while well ahead in the snowboard cross final saw her crash, allowing Switzerland's Tanja Frieden to scoot past for gold.
Jacobellis, the world champion, attempted a "grab" - that is, a clutch at the side of her board - as she flew over the last of the icy ramps that regularly send snowboarders flying like mad March hares.
The American maintained that she had performed the manoeuvre to stabilise herself, adding - somewhat redundantly - "it didn't work."
Peter Foley, the US team coach, said: "I was yelling at the screen 'Keep racing! Keep racing!' She just cut an edge. I don't think she was showing off."
For Frieden, it was a moment that brought to mind Steven Bradbury's triumph four years ago in the short-track speed skating 1,000m after all three opponents ahead of him fell. At least Jacobellis was able to get up and retrieve silver - if not face.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments