When Penticton freestyle skiers hit the courses at Apex Mountain Resort for the Penticton 2016 BC Winter Games, Feb. 25 to 28, there’s a chance they don’t leave empty handed.
Kenni Kuroda, coach of the Apex Freestyle Club, feels they have a strong field in moguls. The club is represented by Andrew Carlow, Alec Henderson, Brayden Kuroda and Anna Spence.
“I think we should pull away with some medals for sure,” said the coach.
Kuroda said things are a little different at the Games compared to their club schedule as athletes will try to sleep on gym floors, have different meals and experience the camaraderie.
In talking about his athletes, he’s happy to see Carlow qualify.
“He really tries hard. Now is his time to shine,” said Kuroda. “Hopefully we will see some good results from him.”
Henderson,12, is a rookie on the competitive team. Following a strong performance at Whistler, Kuroda said he’s holding his own and “one to watch out for in the future.”
“It’s really great,” said Henderson of his opportunity. “It’s really fun just to have the experience and meet different people.”
After reaching the podium at Timber Tour Apex and Whistler, Henderson is confident going into the weekend.
“I’m going to do pretty well,” said Henderson, who has medal hopes. “I know the courses.”
The excitement goes up another level competing on home turf. While his family lives at Apex Mountain during the winter, they have joked about him having to travel into town to stay with the other athletes, then returning to compete.
Kuroda and Spence competed in the Mission 2014 BC Winter Games. Kuroda won gold, while Spence picked up a silver medal.
Alex and Liam Collyer will represent the Silver Star Freestyle Club. Coach Paul Passak said the brother’s enjoyed a good start to the season. Liam reached the podium in all his Super Youth events. Passak said the Collyer’s have a “go get it” attitude. Everytime they are on the ski hill, they give their best.
“They don’t shy away from trying new tricks or pushing themselves,” said Passak. “They learn quickly because of it.”
Passak feels they will have good runs at the Games that put them in the top-10.
“There are so many good skiers out there,” he said. “I can expect them to have good, solid performances,” he said.
Liam likes to try the new hardest tricks and Passak said he almost has to hold him back for his own safety. Alex is different in that he is critical of himself.
“He wants to be the best,” said Passak. “I have to remind him he is a kid and skiing should be fun.”
Athletes will be competing from 7:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Friday and Saturday, then 8 to 11 a.m. on Sunday.
