As a former professional skier who spends most of the winter in the mountains, I have been closely following this year's Winter Olympics. From Team GB's first-ever gold medals on snow to record-breaking performances, these are my standout moments.
The First Gold for Great Britain
We have to begin here. Team GB's first ever Winter Olympic gold medal on snow, claimed in the mixed team snowboard cross, is a moment that will define British winter sport for a generation. It was seismic. Charlotte Bankes and Huw Nightingale produced a landmark performance to top the podium — I was completely lost for words.
Skeleton once again proved a British stronghold. Matt Weston claimed gold in the Men's Skeleton, before teaming up with Tabitha Stoecker to win the inaugural Mixed Team Skeleton event, sealing a remarkable double. Athletes who perform with that kind of composure under Olympic pressure are rare. Watching them was quietly extraordinary.
The Mountains Delivered
Alpine skiing was, as it always is, gripping from start to finish.
Lucas Pinheiro Braathen lit up the giant slalom. Technically formidable, completely electric, and competing for Brazil for the first time, which made it feel all the more special. Federica Brignone winning on home snow in Italy was pure theatre; exactly the kind of result the Olympics seems made for. And Mikaela Shiffrin dominating the slalom, as she tends to. There is simply no one else like her.
For the USA, Breezy Johnson took gold in a performance made all the more powerful by what unfolded around it. Lindsey Vonn, returning under the most testing of circumstances, skied with the fierce determination that has defined her entire career. Her fall was a sobering moment. The resilience of the American women throughout these Games was something to behold.
And then there was Dave Ryding. 'The Rocket'. Five Winter Olympics. His farewell was incredibly moving to witness. For me, as someone who knows what this sport demands, it hit differently. His career is a reminder of the absolute dedication the mountain requires, and the love of it that keeps you going.
The Finals to Remember
The Men's Freeski Big Air was my moment of the Games. Run after run, the level just kept climbing. I was completely on the edge of my seat. Norway's Tormod Frostad took gold in a final that will be talked about for years. One of those rare occasions in sport where you feel genuinely privileged to have watched it.
Curling gripped me over the weekend too. It is such a fascinating sport, and a wonderful reminder of the diversity within these Games. Canada just pipped Team GB, but I know they'll come back looking for gold at the next Games.
I must also mention Zoe Atkin's exceptional performance in the Women's Freeski Halfpipe final. At only 23, she was one of the youngest UK athletes competing, and an inspiration to young women across the globe. Up against huge names such as Eileen Gu, Zoe gave it everything and secured Team GB's final medal of the Games.
All of these moments combined are exactly why I love the Winter Olympics. It's high-octane racing, world-class breakthrough moments, and stories that I know we as a nation will be talking about for years to come.
Chemmy Alcott, Graham Bell and Ed Leigh brought it all to life with warmth and real expertise. Their knowledge of the mountain is truly lived, not learned, and that made the coverage feel genuinely special.
To every Team GB athlete who competed: thank you. For your dedication, your courage, and for making Great Britain proud.
