Alexandra Pretorius announces her retirement
Calgary, Alberta - October 22, 2014
After battling a series of knee injuries sustained while competing for Canada, Ski Jumping Canada's Alexandra Pretorius has decided to hang up her jump skis and call it a career.
... Pretorius started ski jumping at age 7 with the Altius Nordic Ski Club in Calgary, Alberta. Inspired by the first generation of female ski jumping athletes such as Nata DeLeeuw, Katie Willis and Atsuko Tanaka as well as the opportunity to compete at the Olympics, Alexandra "gave 100% effort at everything she did" according to Team Canada head coach Gregor Linsig.
Pretorius' career highlights are impressive - 4 ladies Grand Prix podiums, including 2 wins, as well as 2 FIS cup podiums.
After a lifetime of jumping, Alexandra's only regret is that her injuries forced her to miss the 2014 Sochi Olympics - an event at which the women would compete for the first time - where she was a clear medal contender.
"I'll miss the sport, my teammates, my coaches and the thrill of competing for Canada" said Pretorius, "but it's time for me to move on to a different challenge. I wish all the best to my teammates and I'll be their number one fan".
On behalf of all Canadians and ski jumping fans across the globe, we wish Alexandra all the success in the world. She's done us proud.
Ski Jumping Canada