The New Zealand Olympic Team at PyeongChang 2018 regrets to announce that snowboard slopestyle and big air athlete Tiarn Collins has been withdrawn from competition.
Collins, age 18, fell during pre-competition training on the slopestyle course (8 February). He landed on and dislocated his shoulder.
He was subsequently unable to compete in the slopestyle event (10/11 February) alongside team mate Carlos Garcia Knight.
The team worked with Collins on an ongoing assessment and rehabilitation plan, enabling the young athlete to aim for a return to competition in time for the big air competition from 21st February.
Unfortunately, Collins will not be ready to compete on this date and, on advice from his medical team, has been withdrawn.
Chef de Mission Pete Wardell said the team is hugely disappointed for the teenager.
“It’s been a tough decision for Tiarn, his family and the team but the nature and severity of the injury and the demands on the shoulder have resulted in this decision.
“He’s incredibly sore and limited in his movement, but still, he really wanted to compete.
“He has done everything he possibly could to be ready."
Wardell commended Collins for his attitude and composure during this difficult period.
"He’s been a hugely supportive and positive influence on those still competing, even though this situation has been devastating for him. This reflects a maturity beyond his years.
“He has massive potential. His character, capability and success to date on the world cup scene mean his future is bright.”
Tiarn will spend some time with his family before returning to the PyeongChang Olympic Athletes' Village in time to support his team mates in the snowboard big air competition towards the end of the games.
Wardell and the team wish Collins all the best for his recovery.
The New Zealand Team in PyeongChang now enters day four of competition. The men's snowboard halfpipe will get underway later today with New Zealand's Rakai Tait set to compete in the cold and snowy conditions currently being experienced at Pheonix Park,. The men's 1500m speed skating final will take place tonight by with New Zealanders Peter Michael (4th, 5000m) and Reyon Kay racing from 2000h.