Games' goodwill a real winter warmer

Big Air buddies

Tuesday's women's freeski Big Air final also witnessed a great moment of friendship and respect.

Team China sensation Gu Ailing grabbed the title from France's Tess Ledeux with her last jump. Ledeux had set the benchmark of 94.5 points on her first run but failed to improve on her final score with a flaw on the landing during her last attempt.

Just moments after Ledeux finished her competition, Gu and Switzerland's Mathilde Gremaud, the bronze medalist, came together to console Ledeux, who lost her father last year.

"We are going through the emotions at the end," said Gu. "I won because of them, because they had inspired me so much and made me who I am. I just wanted to express my gratitude. We are all out here to do this together."

"Lots of respect between these girls," said Gremaud. "Ailing and Tess are really strong and motivating. They are pushing me and I hope to be pushing them."

As enthralling as the athletic performances are, it's perhaps the sportsmanship and goodwill that these Games will be best remembered for.

Xinhua