Britain’s Tabby Stoecker was unable to replicate the gold-winning success of teammate Matt Weston, finishing fifth in the women’s skeleton competition at the Cortina Sliding Centre. Weston, who claimed Olympic champion status on Friday evening, had set a high benchmark, while Stoecker aimed to follow up her World Cup bronze from last month with an Olympic medal.
After the first two heats on Friday, Stoecker held fifth place, trailing the leader Janine Flock by 0.53 seconds. However, a slower third run caused her to slip further behind, ending the competition 1.46 seconds off the pace in fifth. Germany’s Susanne Kreher and Jacqueline Pfeifer took the silver and bronze medals, respectively.
Reflecting on her performance, Stoecker said, “I just feel so proud of myself. To reach the Olympics alone is such an honour, and to compete at this level and give my very best – I’m really proud of myself, the team, and the entire group including the boys who did so well yesterday.”
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Fellow British sliders Freya Tarbit and Amelia Coltman finished seventh and ninth respectively. Tarbit celebrated their collective achievements, highlighting the strength of the British skeleton program. “This is our first Games, and all of us finished in the top 10. It’s something we can be really proud of. It shows British skeleton is thriving right now. The whole programme has lots to be proud of.”
Looking ahead, two of the women will join Matt Weston and Marcus Wyatt in the upcoming team event on Sunday. Stoecker expressed confidence, saying, “Matt smashed it, and Marcus performed phenomenally as well. Competing alongside them in the team race is going to be incredible.”
The British athletes also shared their respect for Janine Flock, who took gold. Stoecker remarked, “Janine has been an inspiration to our team. She’s always been so kind and supportive, whether with sliding advice or other help. To see her win today in such a dominant fashion is truly inspiring. I’m thrilled for her – she absolutely deserved it.”