Inspiring Olympic run comes to close for Steamboat rider Schaffrick

As Maddy Schaffrick’s score flashed after her second qualifying run in women’s snowboard halfpipe Wednesday, the look on her face said she knew she wouldn’t be advancing.

The 31-year-old Steamboat Springs local and former Winter Sports Club and U.S. snowboard team coach landed low on the halfpipe and lost momentum on her first run. She also had a slight slip on her second run. Her scores landed her in 15th place, outside of the top-12 finish needed to advance.

Schaffrick’s story has been nothing short of inspirational. At age 20, she stepped away from snowboarding, succumbing to burnout. The love she had for the sport had been sapped.

Through time away, refocusing, family support — and eventually, coaching — Schaffrick found her way back. Her story has showcased perseverance and the importance of taking care of one’s mental health.

She has two more competitions left in her snowboard season. The first is March 7 in Ban-K, Japan. The second is March 28 in Silvaplana, Switzerland.

Schaffrick secured a podium finish earlier in the season. She took second place on Jan. 9 in Aspen and remains on the hunt for her first victory.

Three of Shaffrick’s teammates advanced to the women’s snowboard halfpipe final. Chloe Kim — the returning two-time gold medalist — took the top spot with 90.25 points. Maddie Mastro and Bea Kim placed third and 10th, respectively. Mastro scored 86.00 points, while Bea Kim scored 76.75 points.

The women’s snowboard halfpipe final is set for 11:30 a.m. Thursday.

Original reporting from SteamboatPilot.com.