Canadian snowboarder Mark McMorris was stretchered off the course on Wednesday after a serious training accident ahead of the Milan Cortina Games.
According to reports, the three-time Olympic bronze medalist crashed on Wednesday evening while preparing for the big air qualifying event, which was scheduled about 24 hours before the opening ceremony.
McMorris, 32, was training on a giant platform in Livigno when the incident occurred.
There was no immediate update on his condition, but the Canadian National Snowboarding Team confirmed he was receiving medical attention after a “major” crash.
Major aerial events require riders to launch from ramps more than 50 meters high and complete multiple spins and tricks before landing.
McMorris has extensive experience in the discipline, winning four of his 12 gold medals at the X Games in big air, while earning his Olympic hardware in slopestyle.
The crash raised concerns among fans and fellow athletes, given McMorris’ injury history. In 2017, he suffered life-threatening injuries after crashing into a tree while driving through the backcountry. Since then he has competed with a bar in his leg and plates in his arm and jaw.
McMorris is competing in his fourth Olympics and was considered a strong prospect heading into the event.
Officials have not yet said whether the Canadian snowboarder will be able to compete in the upcoming competition as assessments continue.
