QUEBEC, Canada — The U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team is celebrating a remarkable achievement as Park City resident Winter Vinecki secured her sixth World Cup victory in freestyle aerials this week, marking a triumphant return to form following an injury-plagued season. Competing in the picturesque surroundings of Quebec, Vinecki clinched first place on Tuesday and followed it up with a second-place finish on Wednesday, capping off a stellar performance that has put her back in the spotlight. "It’s so special, and it’s so exciting having all of these kids here cheering us on," Vinecki expressed to U.S. Ski & Snowboard after her performances. "It’s such an amazing feeling being back on top of the podium, especially coming off of an injury last season. I’m just really excited." Her enthusiasm was palpable, reflecting not only her personal triumph but also her connection with the younger generation of skiers who look up to her as a role model. Vinecki, who trains at the renowned Utah Olympic Park, showcased her exceptional talent during the competition by executing a challenging maneuver known as a full full full for the second time in her competitive career. Remarkably, this was the first occasion she performed this complex routine in an individual event, further solidifying her status as a top-tier aerialist on the international scene. With her recent victories, she has demonstrated not only skill but also resilience, having overcome setbacks from the previous season that had sidelined her. The competition in Canada was not just about Vinecki. On the opening day, fellow U.S. aerialist Quinn Dehlinger, who has already qualified to compete in the upcoming 2026 Milan Cortina Olympics, made waves with a jaw-dropping double full full full. His performance earned him a commendable third place, with a total of 123.53 points. This marked a significant milestone for Dehlinger, who continues to develop his skills as he prepares for the Olympic stage. "I’m thrilled with my performance and to be on the podium with Winter and the other talented athletes here," Dehlinger said. His excitement was evident, as he acknowledged the competitive atmosphere and camaraderie among the athletes. Dehlinger’s strong showing adds to the anticipation for the Olympics, where he hopes to further prove his mettle on the world stage. In a strong showing for Park City athletes, Tasia Tanner also competed fiercely, finishing in fourth place, which is a personal best for her in this competitive field. Tanner's journey has been one of determination and growth, and her recent performance demonstrates her commitment to the sport. As she continues to refine her skills and techniques, Tanner is looking to build upon this momentum in future competitions. Another competitor, Karenna Elliot, who is associated with the Youth Sports Alliance and is making a comeback after a knee injury, narrowly missed qualifying for the finals on the first day, finishing in 14th place. Elliot’s journey back into competition after her injury speaks volumes about her tenacity and dedication to the sport. She expressed her gratitude for the support she has received and emphasized her determination to return to her previous form. The recent World Cup events have not only been a showcase of talent but also a testament to the strength and spirit of the athletes involved. The camaraderie among competitors, the thrill of the competition, and the encouragement from fans, especially the younger generation, create a vibrant atmosphere that motivates these athletes to push their limits and strive for greatness. Looking ahead, the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team is optimistic about its prospects as athletes like Vinecki, Dehlinger, and Tanner continue to excel. With the 2026 Winter Olympics on the horizon, these performances serve as a critical stepping stone in their preparations. The team will undoubtedly focus on honing their skills, building on their successes, and addressing any areas for improvement as they gear up for the biggest stage in winter sports. In conclusion, Winter Vinecki’s impressive back-to-back podium finishes in Quebec are not just personal victories but also a source of inspiration for aspiring young skiers. As the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Team continues to develop its roster of talent, the spotlight on these athletes will only grow brighter in the lead-up to the 2026 Olympics, where they will aim to showcase their skills on the world stage once again.