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Mr. Kerr was among 66 skiers who took part in a two-day International Ski Federation (FIS) World Cup event in Blue Mountain, Ontario, about a two-hour ride north of the city of Toronto, on January 19 and 20.

At the end of the first day of competition, Mr. Kerr finished 28th, becoming one of only 32 skiers who moved on to day two. Although he did not advance on day two and ended the event in 28th position, he made Jamaicans proud finishing ahead of several ‘snow’ countries, including the United States, Italy and Russia.

This is the first time that Ski Cross will be featured at the Winter Olympics. Competitors ski down a course that can have jumps, rollers and banks, and can travel at speeds of up to 70 miles. During day one of this competition, each skier is racing against the clock. On day two, four skiers race at a time, sometimes jostling each other for position; however, deliberate contact can lead to disqualification.

Jamaica’s Consul General to Toronto, Mr. George Ramocan, was among a contingent of supporters, including students from several Toronto-area schools, who made it to Blue Mountain to cheer on Mr. Kerr. “His triumph over powerful snow countries like the United States, Russia and Italy, makes him a definite favourite,” he said.

Kerr will now make his way to Vancouver for the start of the Winter Olympics. He is expected to compete on February 21.