THE CANADIAN PRESS
FLAINE, France — Canada’s Ashleigh McIvor persevered on an unpredictable course to win a silver medal Wednesday at a World Cup ski cross event.
McIvor, of Whistler, B.C., fell to world No. 1 Ophelie David of France in the women’s final. After David pulled ahead at the start, McIvor attempted a pass on a late turn but David held on by forcing her out wide. Karin Huttary of Austria was third.
"Story of the day was Ashleigh," said Canadian head coach Eric Archer. "She hadn’t qualified for the field yet on the World Cup this season.
"I think her fast qualifying time yesterday gave her the confidence to relax, and remember how much fun ski cross can be.
"Now she knows she can compete with these girls."
McIvor was sidelined for most of last season with a shoulder injury.
It was clear and mild for the race but there was plenty of ice on the course and snow conditions were inconsistent. Kelsey Serwa of Kelowna, B.C., finished fifth and Anik Demers-Wild of Lac-Beauport, Que., was eighth.
Tomas Krauz of the Czech Republic won the men’s event. American Casey Puckett was second and Eric Iljans of Sweden finished third.
Calgary’s Stanley Hayer was the top Canadian in sixth.