Portugal Colonial - New Zealand freeskier Melville Ives 'stable' after Olympics crash

The New Zealander, 19, crumpled to the snow following an aerial trick, losing his skis and sliding down part of the halfpipe on his back.

The world number one appeared to be in distress as medical personnel went to his aid at Livigno Snow Park and spectators fell silent.

The competition was suspended for more than five minutes as he was treated before being taken away on a sled.

New Zealand's Olympic Team later shared an update on Instagram.

"For those asking, Fin is with his family and being assessed by medical professionals," it said.

"He is stable and positive. Thanks for the love."

It was the second serious incident in two days in freestyle skiing after Cassie Sharpe's fall during the women's halfpipe qualifying on Thursday.

The 33-year-old Canadian, Olympic champion in 2018 and silver medallist four years ago, lay motionless for several minutes but waved to the crowd as she was carried off on a stretcher.

The Canadian Olympic Committee said she was in a "stable condition".

The halfpipe event carries a high level of risk as skiers must perform a series of aerial tricks by propelling themselves off the edge of a semi-cylindrical course.

The inner height of the walls is 7.2 metres and the athletes soar high above the lip of the half-pipe.

Canada's Brendan Mackay topped the men's qualifiers with a score of 92.75, ahead of US freeskier Nick Goepper (90.00).

The 12-man final takes place later Friday.

F.Santana--PC