Lindsey’s Crash

Unfortunately Linsey Jacobellis will likely be known for loosing the Gold rather than Winning the Silver. While by most accounts she was the most talented rider in the field, she did not earn the Gold metal.

I used to be a competitive snowboarder and hold two national titles (1996 USASA Apline Overall & Slalom) so I thought I would offer my perspective. Some have said she wasn’t trying to appease her fans, however I disagree. The maneuver she performed over the next to the last jump is not something productive to snowboard cross competition. It is also something you don’t accidentally do.

Lindsey as since admitted she got caught up in the moment. So where do we go from here? Personally I feel really bad for Lindsey. I know what it is like to get caught up in the moment of competition although my experiences don’t compare to hers. The toughest part will be for Lindsey to move on and not dwell on the moment.

I hope most people can take away from this a positive message. See things through to the end with everything you do in live. I know I was reminded of this today. If it is clearing out your inbox or finishing a project you’ve been procrastinating on Lindsey reminds us it isn’t done until it is done. 95% complete is still 5% deficient.

So thank you, Lindsey. You are a silver medalist in the Olympics which is an amazing accomplishment. You’ve reminded us all of important lessons in live. And most of all I look forward to seeing lots of good riding from you in the future…. And we wish you the best in Vancouver 2010!