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Bilodeau Wins First Gold for Canada on Home soil |
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Monday, 15 February 2010 |
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Mogulist Alexandre Bilodeau won Canada's first ever gold medal on home soil laying down a near-perfect final run at Cypress Mountain on Sunday.
"I went out and I knew what to do," Bilodeau said immediately following the event.
The 2009 overall World Cup champion executed a back full off the top air and a perfect-scoring back iron cross off the bottom air to earn a score of 26.75.
Dale Begg-Smith, competing for Australia, took the silver medal. American skier Bryon Wilson claimed the bronze medal.
Bilodeau, of Rosemere, Que., has topped the podium six times at previous World Cup events. The 22-year-old has often said his brother, Frederic, who has cerebral palsy, has inspired him to push his limits.
"It's really getting me right now," Bilodeau said. "My brother is my inspiration. Growing up with a handicap puts everything in perspective.
"He taught me so many things in my life. I was one of the most surrounded guys.
"I have great friends in the stands waiting for me. I've got everything on my side. Everything is perfect.
Vincent Marquis finished fourth ahead of teammate Pierre-Alexandre Rousseau who took fifth place.
"My goal was to cross the finish line and give it all I have," Marquis said. "I am excited, but at the same time, fourth is so close."
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