Skier Worley giving French a reason to be cheerful

0 Comments | AFP, March, 2008

BORMIO, Italy (AFP) — Her name might be lacking a certain Gallic resonance, but Tessa Worley is already threatening to become a household alpine skiing name in her native France.

Born near the Alps to a French mother and Australian father, the 18-year-old who spent her early years in New Zealand has made significant strides in what has been her breakthrough season on the tough World Cup circuit.

Worley began what could be called her first World Cup season, after only three appearances last year, with a sensational fifth place finish in the Solden giant slalom in October.

A stream of solid displays followed, leaving the bubbly teenager on cloud nine and ranked an impressive 14th in the giant slalom competition ahead of Saturday's final race of the season....