The ski jumping community is mourning the death of an Olympic ski jumper who represented the United States at the Olympic games in Beijing last year.
Patrick Gasienica, 24, was fatally injured in a motorcycle accident on the night of June 12 in the village of Bull Valley, Chicago, according to confirmation from the Bull Valley Police Department. An initial investigation shows that the motorcycle “lost control and crossed the center lane of traffic.”
USA Nordic paid tribute to Gasienica, citing his extraordinary talent and contribution to the sport. His record at the Beijing Olympics included securing the 49th and 53rd places in individual contests, and a notable 10th place in the team event with Casey Larson, Kevin Bickner, and Decker Dean.
In a conversation with the media last year in China, Gasienica acknowledged the development in the sport back home, claiming that the sport is progressing despite fewer jumpers. He also noted a positive trend of an increased number of children joining ski clubs in the wake of the pandemic.
Born in Oak Park, Gasienica developed his ski jumping abilities at the Norge Ski Club, roughly 40 miles northwest of Chicago. His passion for the sport made him a much-admired figure within the skiing community.
