Katie Ormerod couldn't have wished for a better return from injury as she won silver in her first World Cup appearance in almost two years.
The snowboarder, who broke her heel before the 2018 Winter Olympics, finished second in the big air event in New Zealand after Saturday’s final was cancelled because of high winds.
In her first World Cup appearance in 629 days, 21-year-old Ormerod scored 83.75 in qualifying to finish second – her seventh overall World Cup podium – while Finland’s Enni Rukajvari took gold with 86.00.
She was third after the first run at Cardrona, then improved to second place with her backside 720 mute – a feat she never expected to achieve so soon.
“I’m so excited to come second in my first World Cup back since injury,” said Ormerod.
“It was great to ride in such a high-level contest and I’m really happy with my riding.
“It couldn’t be a better way for me to start the season.”
The result is an early birthday present for Ormerod, who turns 22 on Sunday.
Her podium finish means she has drawn level with Zoe Gillings-Brier and James Woods with seven top-three World Cup finishes, equal fifth on Britain’s all-time list.
Sportsbeat 2019 Picture Credit: GB Snowsport