Is GB's Brookes Shifting Gears to Slopestyle After Big Air Near Miss?

Team GB's Mia Brookes, a promising young snowboarder, recently faced disappointment in the big air final at the Winter Olympics, narrowly missing out on a medal. However, she remains optimistic as she prepares for the upcoming slopestyle event, demonstrating resilience and determination in the face of adversity.

Last updated: 10 October 2023 (BST)

What’s happening now

Mia Brookes has been in the spotlight following her performance in the big air final at the Winter Olympics, where she narrowly missed out on a medal. Despite her disappointment, she has expressed a positive outlook on her future competitions, particularly the slopestyle event. Brookes’ ability to maintain a constructive mindset is noteworthy, particularly given the high expectations placed upon her as a young athlete representing Team GB.

Key takeaways

• Mia Brookes narrowly missed a medal in the big air final.
• She remains optimistic about her upcoming slopestyle event.
• Brookes is a rising star in Team GB's snowboarding team.

Timeline: how we got here

Mia Brookes has been making headlines since her debut in international competitions. The following timeline highlights key milestones leading up to the Winter Olympics:

• June 2022: Brookes wins her first major title at the Youth Olympic Games.
• December 2022: She secures a spot on Team GB for the Winter Olympics.
• February 2023: Competes in the big air final, finishing just outside the medal positions.

What’s new vs what’s known

New today/this week

Brookes has shared her reflections on her recent performances, emphasising her focus on learning from the experience. She has been vocal about her ambition to excel in the slopestyle event, indicating her commitment to improving and competing at a high level.

What was already established

Prior to the Olympics, Brookes had garnered attention for her exceptional talent and competitive spirit. Her history of achievements in youth competitions set high expectations for her Olympic performance.

Impact for the UK

Consumers and households

Brookes’ performance has generated significant interest in snowboarding within the UK. Her journey may inspire increased participation in winter sports, encouraging more young athletes to pursue similar paths. As a result, local snowboarding clubs may see a surge in interest and membership.

Businesses and jobs

The success of athletes like Brookes can positively impact the UK snowboarding industry. Increased viewership and interest in the sport can lead to more sponsorship opportunities, contributing to the growth of the sector and potential job creation within sports-related businesses.

Policy and regulation

The UK Sport body may look to enhance funding and support for winter sports in light of Brookes’ achievements, aiming to cultivate future talent and improve overall performance in international competitions.

Numbers that matter

• 18: Age of Mia Brookes, showcasing her as one of the youngest competitors in the Winter Olympics.
• 3: The number of medals Team GB has won in snowboarding events at the Olympics to date.
• 1: The number of events remaining for Brookes to compete in during the Winter Olympics.

Definitions and jargon buster

• Big Air: A snowboarding event where competitors perform tricks after launching off a large ramp.
• Slopestyle: A snowboarding event that involves navigating a course with various obstacles and jumps.

How to think about the next steps

Near term (0–4 weeks)

Brookes will be preparing intensively for the slopestyle event, focusing on her technique and strategy to maximise her performance.

Medium term (1–6 months)

Post-Olympics, Brookes may participate in several World Cup events, which will be crucial for her development and experience in international competition.

Signals to watch

• Upcoming events in the World Cup schedule that feature Brookes.
• Performance reviews from her coaches and analysts after her events.

Practical guidance

Do

• Support Team GB by watching upcoming events and sharing enthusiasm on social media.
• Encourage young athletes in your community to take up snowboarding or other winter sports.

Don’t

• Underrate the impact of mental resilience in sports; athletes like Brookes demonstrate its importance.
• Dismiss the significance of participation in winter sports, especially following prominent events like the Olympics.

Checklist

• Stay updated on Team GB's performance in the Winter Olympics.
• Engage with local snowboarding clubs for participation opportunities.
• Follow Brookes' journey and support her competitions.

Risks, caveats, and uncertainties

Brookes’ future performance is subject to various uncertainties, including potential injuries and the pressure of competition. As a young athlete, her adaptability will play a crucial role in her ongoing success and ability to handle competitive pressures.

Bottom line

While Mia Brookes faced disappointment in the big air final, her positive outlook and determination set her up for potential success in the slopestyle event. Her journey is a testament to resilience and the potential of young athletes in the UK snowboarding scene.

FAQs

What is Mia Brookes' background in snowboarding?

Mia Brookes has been competing since a young age, quickly rising through the ranks in youth snowboarding competitions before representing Team GB at the Winter Olympics.

What is the significance of the slopestyle event?

The slopestyle event is critical for snowboarders, as it allows them to showcase their creativity and skill by navigating a course filled with obstacles, making it a fan favourite.

How can I support Team GB during the Olympics?

You can support Team GB by watching the events, sharing updates on social media, and encouraging young athletes in your community to engage in winter sports.