Kiwi Alpine Ski Racer comes back from injury for podium finish in France

Lake Wanaka, New Zealand (April 15, 2009)  New Zealand’s No.1-ranked alpine ski racer, Ben Griffin, 22, of Ohakune, beat more than 100 competitors late last week to claim silver in a FIS Super G race in Auron, France.

The result follows a remarkable comeback for Griffin whose skiing career was uncertain after he fractured his neck last year.  Griffin who was forced to take 11 months off to recover from the fracture and undergo a major operation, had trained for just one month before rejoining competition.

Currently racing in Europe, Griffin also achieved a fourth in the giant slalom (GS) at the British Nationals in France where more than 130 competitors battled it out for the title. 

The British Nationals held in Meribel, France, is an annual event run to identify skiing champions and develop potential in future athletes.  The competition this year boasted almost 1,000 competitors from the ski nations of the world.

Griffin returns to New Zealand next week for a short break before heading to the South Island to begin his build up for the New Zealand racing season.

Griffin remains on track to qualify for the Winter Olympics, 2010 in Vancouver, Canada. He is a member of the Ski Racing New Zealand National Team.

Snow Sports New Zealand is the official governing body and National Sports Organisation representing all snow sports in New Zealand. Ski Racing New Zealand is a member of Snow Sports New Zealand.      

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