Canadian Eliot Grondin earns 1st career World Cup snowboard cross medal

Canada's Eliot Grondin competes in a men's snowboard cross heat at the Phoenix Snow Park at the 2018 Winter Olympic Games in Pyeongchang, South Korea, Thursday, Feb. 15, 2018. (Jonathan Hayward/CP)

KELOWNA, B.C. — Canadian snowboard cross racer Eliot Grondin earned his first-ever World Cup medal on Saturday at Big White Ski Resort in Kelowna, B.C.

The 18 year old from Sainte-Marie, Que., placed second behind Italy’s Omar Visintin and ahead of American Alex Deibold — who claimed bronze.

Grondin scored his first career podium in what was his 20th career World Cup start. He has competed on the World Cup circuit since 2017.

Kevin Hill of Vernon, B.C. — who was competing in his home province — finished eighth.

In the women’s event, Olympic Champion and World Cup leader Michela Moioli of Italy recorded her second win and third podium finish of the season.

She finished ahead of silver medallist Belle Brockhoff of Australia and bronze medallist Raffaella Brutto.

Meryeta Odine of Prince George, B.C. was the top Canadian — finishing in 10th.

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