Lee Chae-un wins S. Korea’s first title, China’s Cai Xuetong is champ for third time at 2023 Freestyle Worlds
By Ryan General
South Korea’s Lee Chae-un and China’s Cai Xuetong have taken the men’s and women’s snowboard halfpipe titles, respectively, at the 2023 Freestyle Ski and Snowboarding World Championships.
The competition, held in Bakuriani, Georgia, from Feb. 19 to March 5, saw Lee make history by becoming his country’s first-ever snowboard halfpipe champion.
The 16-year-old snowboarder grabbed the lead from the very beginning of the competition, scoring an impressive 93.50 on his first run.
“I can’t believe this moment,” Lee said after the event. “My head is blown! It is a dream come true.”
Australia’s Valentino Guseli, 17, took home silver by scoring 93.00 in his third and final run. Beijing 2022 bronze medallist Jan Scherrer of Switzerland landed third place with a score of 89.25.
In the women’s category, Cai won via a dominating 90.50 score on her first run and maintained her lead throughout all three rounds.
With the win, the 29-year-old snowboarding champ earned her third career world title.
Canada’s Elizabeth Hosking finished in second place with 85.50 points, while 18-year-old Ono Mitsuki of Japan took third place with a score of 83.00.
Double Olympic snowboard halfpipe champion Chloe Kim did not compete in the event, after opting to prioritize her mental health and take a break during the 2022/23 season.
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