Brockhoff second in Montafon World Cup

Belle Brockhoff has continued her strong start to the World Cup snowboard cross season, claiming the silver medal overnight in Montafon, Austria.

The podium performance sees the 28-year-old from Melbourne move up to third place on the World Cup standings after two events.

Brockhoff reached the big final after taking out victories in the quarter and semi final heats. In a closely contested final with several lead changes, Brockhoff was just edged at the finish line behind Charlotte Bankes of Great Britain, with Chloe Trespeuch of France in third.

“It’s really good to be back on the podium”, said a happy Brockhoff after collecting the 13th World Cup medal of her career.

“I was a bit rusty at the opening World Cup in China, but it was good to get the cobwebs out and bring in some good momentum into this race.

In her second World Cup start, 18-year-old Josie Baff from Jindabyne had an impressive qualifying performance, advancing to finals in second place. Baff finished third in her quarter-final heat to give her a personal best ninth place finish.

“Definitely a little bit bittersweet today”, said the 2020 Youth Olympic Games gold medallist.

“Really stoked to get my first top ten result, but wished it was under different circumstances where I was happy with my riding and run top to bottom.”

“But as always, there are heaps of things to take away and put into action for the World Cup in Cervinia next week.”

Also in action for Australia was Jarryd Hughes (22nd), Mia Clift (26th), Cam Bolton (26th), Declan Dent (29th), Adam Dickson (33rd), Kobi Dent (47th) and Adam Lambert (57th).

The snowboard cross athletes will be back in action tonight competing in the mixed team event in Montafon. 2021 mixed team World Champion’s Brockhoff and Hughes will team up again for Australia.

The mixed team event will debut at the Olympic Winter Games in Beijing.