The Olympus High grad was bitterly disappointed at missing the 2010 Vancouver Olympics after competing at the 2006 Turin Games. But now he’s back, with a new doubles partner. Griffall and Matt Mortensen comprise the top American team heading into Sochi, and might have an outside shot at a medal if some technical adjustments to their equipment work out well. They also will compete in the new team relay, where their medal chances appear slightly better.
Twitter: @PrestonGriffall
Kate Hansen
Hansen arrives in Sochi fresh off become the first American in more than 16 years to win a World Cup event. The California native attends Brigham Young University during the spring and takes online courses the rest of the year, after a childhood spent skateboarding down busy and hilly streets in her hometown near Los Angeles. Given her recent victory, she has an outside shot of reaching the podium.Website
Twitter: @K8ertotz
Photos: The Salt Lake Tribune, USSA, Associated Press