Peterson says medal is 'redemption'

VANCOUVER: Aerials silver medalist Jeret Peterson said Thursday his achievment was "redemption" after years of problems including alcohol abuse, depression and suicide attempts.

The American, who landed his trademark "Hurricane" jump in the competition at Vancouver's Cypress Mountain, narrowly missed out on gold to Alexei Grishin of Belarus but said, nevertheless, it was "the best day of my life".

"It's a personal redemption for me. As much as I want to be a role model for kids, I do it for myself," he said.