Damon Hayler made his Olympic debut in Torino in 2006, riding to a seventh placing as the sport also made its first appearance at the pinnacle of world sport.

Three seasons later, the 33-year-old Dee Why rider broke through for his first World Cup victory, in Bad Gastein in January 2009.

Although Hayler has that Olympic experience behind him, it is Pullin who probably goes into these Games as the form rider of the two Australians.

The 22-year-old is currently ranked eighth on the World Cup standings after two finals appearances that delivered a pair of fourth placings.

Either are genuine top ten contenders, and both have been on World Cup podiums.

Once you get in the finals action, anything is possible, especially in the head-to-head world of snowboard cross.

The overwhelming favourite for the gold, however, is French rider Pierre Vaultier, who has won four of the season’s five events, and claimed silver in his remaining outing.

Challenges to the Vaultier’s season dominance are likely to come from the USA, with defending Olympic champion Seth Westcott , X Games winner Nate Holland and current world number 2 Grahame Watanabe all contenders.

Canadian hopes will be riding on world number four Robert Fagan.

Barry White
AOC - Cypress Mountain