Injured skier Rabe ruled out of Winter Youth Olympics

Philippine representative Laetaz Amihan Rabe on Thursday was officially ruled out of competition in the 2024 Gangwon Winter Youth Olympics due to an injury.

Laetaz Amihan, who is supposed to compete in freestyle skiing, was declared unfit to compete by doctors at the Wonju Severance Christian Hospital as she sustained a left knee injury from a bad landing during practice ahead of her slopestyle competition.

Laetaz Amihan's father and coach Ric said his 14-year old daughter will be out for four to six weeks.

"She (Rabe) needs to rest for four to six weeks because of her injury, but she’s doing fine,” Ric said.

The Rabes will watch first the freestyle big air competition on Sunday before heading back to Switzerland on Monday.

Meanwhile, cross-country skier Avery Balbanida is set to arrive Thursday night in Gangwon.

“It’s going to be an interesting week and I’m so proud to be here,” the 16-year old Canada-based athlete said. “I’m really excited to compete for the Philippines, but I’m a little bit scared because it’s all by myself now.”

Peter Groseclose, who fell short of the podium in the 500m short track speed skating event, will fly back to the United States on Friday.

—JKC, GMA Integrated News