CORTINA D'AMPEZZO, Italy, Feb. 15 (Xinhua) -- Nineteen-year-old South African alpine skier Lara Markthaler marked a career-defining moment in memorable fashion, celebrating her birthday by officially becoming an Olympian on Sunday at the Milan-Cortina Winter Games.
"What a way to celebrate my 19th birthday," Markthaler said after completing her run at Tofane Alpine Skiing Center. "It was so amazing to know that once I pushed out that start-gate I am an Olympian. I'm so glad I made it to the finish. I have so many friends here, cheering me on and with a banner."
