Rubens and Lawrence attended the Olympics as a developmental opportunity but more was expected of Brydon and VanderBeek. Brydon, who grew up in Fernie, B.C., keyed her season on the Olympic downhill because the course suited her ability to glide on the flats. But she started poorly on the roller-coaster style of terrain and could not recover. I didnt perform to my ability or expectation, said Brydon, 25. I went in 100% prepared, physically. Everything I needed was in front of me.
Brydon, 25, will ski the combined on Friday and Super-G race on Sunday. So far, though, what shaped up as a breakout season has proved mostly disappointing, causing her to wonder about continuing as a ski racer. If I go, I go for four years to 2010, and Im not sure I want to do that, she said. I feel like Id give it all I have; on the other hand, theres more out there in life. There are other things I want to do. But I dont want to go out a loser.
Brydon required surgery on both knees prior to the 2002 Salt Lake Games and since then, hasnt been able to achieve her potential. Now, Gartner believes Brydons career may be nearing an end. I dont want to say anything yet because theres still a Super-G but I think after this season she will take a long, hard look at the situation, he said.