To give your life to sport takes dedication. It takes determination.  It takes the support of family, friends and fans.  It takes guts.  The world had a chance to see guts when Chris put it all on the line a little over a week ago in the first ever Olympic Ski Cross event on Cypress Mountain.  

We have long known how Chris operates and what he brings to every competition.  We understand him.  He is the type of person that accepts nothing less than perfection.  He sets lofty goals.  His pursuit of excellence some times leads him to disaster, but he still takes risks every day to be the best.  

I watched my brother ski flawlessly in a sport that is unpredictable and raw.  I listened to the roar of a stadium full of fans cheering his name.  I watched a sea of red and white flags wave in the warm sunlight.  I knew in my heart he would push harder and faster than anyone else.  

As Chris came around the last sharp turn, I knew he would not settle for third.  Earlier in the day, I said to myself that the race would be won and lost at that exact spot on the course.  While some would be content with a shiny bronze medal, Chris went to the Olympics with gold in mind.  Kudos for taking nothing less.

I am so very proud that he stuck with his plan and left a part of himself up on that hill in Cypress.  I remind him every day -- don't look back.  Don't second guess.  Don't question it.  Chris, you showed the world what it means to never give up.  You were brave and courageous. You were strong and inspiring.  

The outpouring of support that has come in from around the world has been humbling.  Chris has managed to move both the young and old.  His honesty about his past, his reserved personality and his sheer willingness to go for broke, has struck a chord with people.  

We wish Chris great success in the future.  We wish him peace and happiness.  We wish for him to continue being the wonderful kid who likes to go fast.  

Many ask about Sochi.  For a kid who lives each day one by one, four years is a long way away.  I can tell you one thing, if he is there, I will be there too.  I will be there to cheer him on as I have for the last 27 years.  I will be there to watch him win gold!