Aiko UEMURA JPN

Since Aiko Uemura participated in the Nagano Olympic Winter Games as a high school student in 1998, she has evolved and grown into one of Japan's leading skiers. In January 2003 she finally achieved the long-sought maiden win in the World Cup. After that she fought back after various struggles and won many fans through her dedication, determination and contagious smile. Aiko Uemura was expected to medal at the 2006 Olympic Winter Games in Turin but finished 5th. In the 2007-2008 season, coming back from knee injury, she scored five World Cup wins and won the moguls World Cup title. At the 2009 FIS Freestyle World Championships she made history by winning not just one but two gold medals to the great joy of her home audience. Her goal at the 2010 Olympic Winter Games in Vancouver is to win the long awaited Olympic medal.