Mancuso Made It!

Julia Mancuso became the first American Woman to win an Olympic Alpine Skiing event (Giant Slalom) since Picabo Street did it back in 1998.

Skiing in less-than-perfect weather sans her signature good-luck tiara (athletes MUST WEAR Head Protective Gear in the Giant Slalom event), Julia had two very strong runs down the challenging slopes, in both cases, taking the more aggressive line. Her combined time was 2 minutes 9.19 seconds.

Mancuso skiing in near-blizzard conditions (Source: NBC)

Several other circumstances factored into Julia’s victory.

Crotia’s Janica Kostelic, winner of a Gold and Silver medal at these Olympic games, was ill and could not compete. Heavy favorite Anja Paerson of Sweden was similarly not in peak form, managing a sixth place finish. Giant Slalom is not a strong suit for compatriot, Lindsey Kildow, who did not participate to begin with.

Tanja Poutianen of Finland and Anna Ottosson of Sweden, Silver and Bronze Medalists, were delighted and surprised at their good fortunes.

Like what many around the country is saying, “Julia doesn’t need her tiara anymore. She has an Olympic Crown.”

And for that, I salute you, Julia!