Canadians 11th, Fail to Reach Finals after Food Poisoning Episode

Topher Sabot · February 3, 2013

The Canadian team of Lenny Valjas and Devon Kershaw failed to advance to the finals, placing fifth in their semi.

But after contracting a second bout of food poisoning in less than a month, Kershaw did not envision anything better.

After succumbing following dinner last night, Kershaw spent an unpleasant twelve hours between 3AM and 3PM dealing with “lots of stomach issues.”

With just a white bun and a little jam for breakfast, he told FasterSkier he was “definitely not in top shape. By any stretch of the imagination I felt horrible.”

To compound matters, the Canadian pair took a risk on skis, opting for hard wax on a day when most other skiers were on klister or hairies, according to Kershaw.

The result was subpar kick on the big climbs.

Kershaw in qualifying. — Kershaw sprinting in 2012.

Kershaw almost decided not to race, but decided to give it a go, in large part to experience the Olympic courses. By later in the afternoon, he was already feeling better, “tired and depleted,” but less ill.

He was taken down by a similar ailment in La Clusaz, France, and missed those World Cup races. He was laid up for longer that time, so is hopeful he will bounce back quickly.

Three other members of the Canadian contingent fell ill, though none were athletes.

“It has definitely not been the season we had last year, but we can turn that around with good racing at World Champs,” Kershaw said.

For now that will start with small steps. The team is off to Livogno, Italy for some training and “safer food hopefully.”

And while his eyes may still be set on World Championship medals, Kershaw is aiming a little lower over the next few days.

“I am going to try and eat dinner tonight, maybe just some rice,” he said.

— Alex Matthews contributed reporting