SNOWBOARD – HALFPIPE: Messages of congratulations have been pouring in for Torah Bright, who became Australia’s first medallist at the Sochi 2014 Olympic Winter Games, by snatching silver in the women’s Halfpipe at Rosa Khutor Extreme Park on Wednesday night Sochi time.

Australian Olympian and fellow snowboarder, Scotty James, watched Bright’s run from the bottom of the pipe. Her good friend was quick to offer his best wishes.

“It’s so awesome for Torah. She’s just been snowboarding so well all year and she’s just come into this with three disciplines. That’s an amazing accomplishment in itself and for her to come out with a medal, that’s just amazing. I’m just so thrilled for her.”

Coach and brother, Ben Bright, was almost lost for words: “I’m very proud of Torah.”

Fellow sport stars were among the first proud Australians to express their delight on social media.

Aerials Gold medallist at Salt Lake City 2002, Alisa Camplin tweeted: Bringing her joy to the podium! @TorahBright now a dual Olympic Medallist

From Socceroo Tim Cahill: Medal for @TorahBright Congratulations. Flying the Flag for the Aussie.

Australia’s rugby union team: Congratulations @TorahBright on your @Sochi2014 silver medal! A great effort. Never mind the gold medal, you have #Wallabies gold support!

Sochi 2014 teammate Anna Segal: Silver for @TorahBright YAAAAAYYY! I screamed my heart out. Voice is gone. 

Sochi 2014 teammate Russ Henshaw: Nice one @TorahBright that was such an epic run!

And London 2012 Silver medallist, canoe slalom athlete Jess Fox: First Olympic medal for Australia! Congrats @TorahBright , the best news to wake up to! #Sochi2014