THE CANADIAN PRESS
INAWASHIRO, Japan. — Canada’s Alexandre Bilodeau edged Japan’s Nobuyuki Nishi to capture the gold medal in the men’s dual moguls event at the world freestyle ski championships.
Bilodeau, 21, of Rosemere, Que., earned the victory after finishing eighth Saturday in the single moguls final. The medal was Canada’s ninth of the world event.
Bilodeau has also won the last four events on the World Cup circuit and the coveted crystal globe as men’s overall moguls leader on the tour.
"Being world champion is great," he said. "It’s something I’ve looked forward to since I was a little boy.
"It’s a dream come true."
Bilodeau overcame soft, slushy snow conditions to capture the victory.
Finland’s Tapio Luusua took the bronze medal.
Bilodeau earned a semifinal victory over Quebec City’s Vincent Marquis, who captured a bronze medal in single moguls. Marquis ended up finishing fourth in the dual moguls event.
Japan’s Aiko Uemura capped a perfect weekend by taking the women’s dual moguls for her second title at the world championship.
Uemura, who won the moguls event Saturday, beat compatriot Miki Ito in Sunday’s final. American Hannah Kearney took the bronze medal.
Uemura, the winner of the World Cup moguls title last season, booked a place at the Vancouver Olympics with Saturday’s victory. Japan’s Tae Satoya, who won the moguls gold medal at the 1998 Nagano Olympics, finished fourth.