“What snowboarding has always had and the Olympics has not touched is that spirit, that original spirit of creativity and athletes standing up and having a voice and being innovative. But I guess what the Olympics has done is provided a platform for that spirit, and that's what I see as being a really positive thing.”

American former professional halfpipe snowboarder

Gretchen Elisabeth Bleiler is an American former professional halfpipe snowboarder. She won a silver medal at the 2006 Winter Olympics. Bleiler competed at the highest level of her sport and became best known for her Olympic success. Her career is tied to snowboarding, especially halfpipe competition, and to the discipline and focus required to reach the podium at the Games.