In an interview this afternoon with MyPrinceGeorgeNow.com, Virginia O’Dine says her daughter will not be able to compete tonight (PT) in the women’s snowboard cross at the PyeongChang 2018 Olympic Winter Games.
Meryeta O’Dine suffered a mild concussion and scraped up her face in a training run.
“I’m grateful to have the Team Canada medical staff behind me to make the right decision,” said Meryeta in a statement to MyPrinceGeorgeNow.com.
“It’s disappointing to not compete but it’s the right call for my health. As an athlete you’re always going to want to push yourself but it’s important to draw the line when needed. I’m proud to have made it this far, and you’ll see me back at the Olympics for Canada and for myself, in four years time.”
.@meryetaodine was suppose to compete in #PyeongChang2018 women’s snowboardcross with @CanadaSnowboard; mother Virginia says she’s holding her spirits up & will begin recovery quickly | #CityOfPG #Sports pic.twitter.com/CwsU83DLba
— My Prince George Now (@mypgnow) February 15, 2018
According to her Mom, speaking on the phone from South Korea, the 20-year-old wasn’t medically cleared to participate.
“She knew that even if she was allowed to race, it would be pretty risky. Obviously she’s sad she doesn’t get this chance; we’re sad but not devastated for sure because her health is much more important.”
Things could’ve been a lot worse if Meryeta wasn’t wearing her protective helmet and goggles.
“She felt pretty good going in and she was hoping to be able to race,” adds Virginia.
“But the medical team just wasn’t happy with the results because a minor concussion is usually fine, but there’s a window of 48 hours. If you get another one, it could be very dangerous.”
O’Dine is the top Canadian and sixth overall in the World Cup standings.
The Canadian Olympic Committee issued the following statement this afternoon:
“Canadian athlete Meryeta O’Dine will not compete in ladies snowboard cross due to injury. O’Dine fell during practice on February 14th, and was diagnosed with a concussion. She was evaluated by both Team Canada’s chief medical officer Dr. Bob McCormack and team doctors before the decision was made that she could not complete.”
She is the second Prince George athlete at the Olympics to be dealing with a health issue.
Megan Tandy gave up her spot today in the Women’s Biathlon 15-kilometre individual race due to a fever.
Tandy was replaced by teammate Sarah Beaudry, who is also from Prince George.
The 23-year-old Beaudry placed 29th out of 87 athletes and was the second of four Canadians.
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