Words by The Canadian Freestyle Ski Association

Canadian National Halfpipe Team member Sarah Burke was injured in a halfpipe training incident in Park City, Utah yesterday.

Sarah is currently listed in critical condition in the hospital’s Neuro Critical Care Unit.

 

“Sarah sustained serious injuries and remains intubated and sedated in critical condition,” said Safdar Ansari, M.D., a neurointensivist with University of Utah Health Care.

Sarah Burke at the 2011 European X Games in Tignes, France. Photo by Felix Rioux

 

Sarah’s husband Rory Bushfield and her family are by her bedside and wish to express their sincere thanks to everyone, all over the world, for their heartfelt thoughts, prayers, and well wishes. “Sarah is a very strong young woman and she will most certainly fight to recover,” said Bushfield.   

 

Sarah’s family has asked that fans and media respect their privacy during this difficult time. Sarah’s friends and fans are encouraged to post their well wishes on Sarah’s Facebook page by clicking here.

The 28-year-old from Squamish, B.C. fell during a training session at a personal sponsor event. She was airlifted to a hospital in Salt Lake City.

Sarah Burke following her win at Winter X Games 15 in Aspen, Colorado. Photo by John Vandervalk

“This is an extremely unfortunate situation and we are awaiting further word on Sarah’s condition,” said Canadian Freestyle CEO Peter Judge. “Sarah is the top female halfpipe athlete in the world she was instrumental in launching the sport and has continued to be a leader moving towards the sport’s Olympic debut in 2014. She is an incredibly resilient and strong young woman and we are hoping she will draw on that strength at this time. Our thoughts are with her and her family at this time.”

Once again, please join us in sending all of your love, thoughts, strength and prayers to Sarah. - Newschoolers.com