BIG MOMENT FOR ‘THE ICEMAN’
Jeffrey promises to give his best in the giant slalom event to make the nation proud
JEFFREY ‘The Iceman’ Webb will be out to make Malaysia proud in the men’s giant slalom event at the Pyeongchang Winter Olympics today. Chef-de-mission Datuk Mumtaz Jaafar believes the alpine ski racer will rise to the occasion at the Yongpyong Alpine Centre.
She has given the nickname ‘Iceman’ to the 19-year-old Jeffrey, who is the first ever Malaysian to qualify for the Winter Olympics, due to his ability to withstand the freezing conditions in Pyeongchang.
“Jeffrey will be up against top competitors but I believe he will do his best for the country. It (Pyeongchang) will be a good start for him at the Olympic level and his future in general,” said Mumtaz yesterday.
“Jeffrey has been training hard with his coach (Ryan Shorter) since he arrived here. He told me that a lot will depend on the conditions on the day. He disclosed, however, that he is slightly nervous.
“I told him that it is normal. He has done well so far and I hope he will perform to his ability tomorrow.”
Jeffrey, who qualified for the Winter Olympics after a strong performance at the Sapporo Asian Winter Games in February last year, is looking forward to the event.
“(The) opening ceremony was great! Awesome being in Pyeongchang, can’t wait for my events!,” said Jeffrey on his Instagram account.
“Never thought I’d be here but here I am. Thanks to everyone that has been supportive.”
In addition to the giant slalom, he will also be competing in the slalom event on Feb 22.