November 02, 2014 (Calgary, Alberta) – After battling a series of knee injuries sustained while competing for Canada, Ski Jumping Canada’s Alexandra Pretorius has decided to hang up her jump skis and call it a career.

Pretorius started ski jumping at age 7 with the Altius Nordic Ski Club in Calgary, Alberta. Inspired by the first generation of female ski jumping athletes such as Nata DeLeeuw, Katie Willis and Atsuko Tanaka as well as the opportunity to compete at the Olympics, Alexandra “gave 100% effort at everything she did” according to Team Canada head coach Gregor Linsig.

Pretorius’ career highlights are impressive – 4 ladies Grand Prix podiums, including 2 wins, as well as 2 FIS cup podiums.

After a lifetime of jumping, Alexandra’s only regret is that her injuries forced her to miss the 2014 Sochi Olympics – an event at which the women would compete for the first time – where she was a clear medal contender.

“I’ll miss the sport, my teammates, my coaches and the thrill of competing for Canada” said Pretorius, “but it’s time for me to move on to a different challenge. I wish all the best to my teammates and I’ll be their number one fan”.

On behalf of all Canadians and ski jumping fans across the globe, we wish Alexandra all the success in the world. She’s done us proud.

“Going out with an injury is not quite the way I hoped I would be ending my career as a ski jumper. However, after realizing the severity of my knee damage I have made the decision to retire from my sport. Although it was a difficult choice to make, it was also the obvious course of action in order to keep my knee functioning for the future.

“Words cannot express how grateful I am to every single coach, athlete, and parent in the ski jumping community that has supported me throughout my career. I feel blessed that I have had the opportunity of a lifetime to meet some amazing athletes and people and have experiences I will never forget. It was an honour to have had the chance to represent Canada internationally and I am thankful for everyone who has cheered me on in my journey.

“I have learned a lot about hard work and determination through ski jumping and I’ve realized that although it is considered to be an individual sport, a strong team behind every athlete is crucial in achieving success.

“After 9 years it is hard to imagine not spending most of my time ski jumping, but now that this chapter in my life is closed I look forward to taking on new challenges and getting my adrenaline rush in some other way. I intend to stay involved with our club in Calgary as it would be impossible for me completely cut ski jumping out of my life.

“I am excited to see what happens next for me but I will always be watching and cheering on my team, and all ski jumpers, as they continue to succeed in the sport,” commented Pretorius.