BORMIO, Italy (AP) — Brazilian ski racer Lucas Pinheiro Braathen made history by winning the Olympic gold medal in giant slalom. This victory marks the first Winter Olympic medal for South America.
Despite the falling snow and thick fog, the 25-year-old kept his cool on the challenging Stelvio course. When he learned he had secured the top spot, he fell into the snow, overwhelmed with excitement.
Pinheiro Braathen finished with a combined time of 2 minutes and 25 seconds, beating Swiss champion Marco Odermatt by 0.58 seconds. Loic Meillard, also from Switzerland, took home the bronze medal.
Known for his vibrant personality, Pinheiro Braathen sports the phrase “Vamos Dançar” — “Let’s Dance” — on the back of his helmet, reflecting his Brazilian roots. Adding to the festive spirit, his win coincides with Brazil’s Carnival season, a time of celebration and joy.
“I want everyone in Brazil to feel this moment,” he shared with TV Globo. “It shows that anything is possible, no matter where you come from. What matters is the spirit inside you.” His journey from representing Norway to becoming Brazil’s first Olympic champion in Alpine skiing is truly inspiring.
Before this victory, he already made waves as the first Brazilian Alpine racer to reach a World Cup podium and secured Brazil’s first-ever World Cup win.
Pinheiro Braathen said, “I skied with my heart. When you do that, anything is possible. I am proud to be a Brazilian skier and an Olympic champion.”
At “Casa Brasil,” his fans cheered loudly. Clad in the national colors, they celebrated his achievement, dancing to samba music and celebrating with lively enthusiasm. Many sports enthusiasts expressed their pride on social media, praising Pinheiro Braathen’s remarkable journey.
Brazilian President Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva acknowledged this historic win on his social media, celebrating the significance of this medal for Brazil’s sports scene. His statement reflected pride and hope for future generations of athletes in Brazil.
On the other hand, Marco Odermatt continued to shine at the Milan Cortina Games, claiming multiple medals, including silver in the team event and bronze in super-G.
For additional context, skiing is gaining popularity in Brazil, despite its tropical climate. There’s a growing interest in winter sports, with more athletes pursuing skiing and snowboarding, inspired by success stories like Pinheiro Braathen’s.
As Brazil looks ahead, this Olympic medal not only marks a sporting achievement but symbolizes a new chapter for winter sports in the country.
For more insights into Alpine skiing events, you can visit AP Alpine Skiing or AP Olympics.
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