This item was published during the term of a previous administration that ended in April 2007
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The Highlander returns
27/02/2002
Britain's first ever Olympic medallist in alpine skiing was officially welcomed home today.
Nicknamed The Highlander Alain Baxter from Aviemore won Bronze in the men's slalom in Salt Lake City on Saturday. He joins the skiing elite whilst putting a seal on Britain's best result at the Winter Olympics since 1936.
Deputy Sports Minister Elaine Murray said:
"On behalf of the people of Scotland and all in the Scottish Executive I would like congratulate Alain on his tremendous achievement.
"Obtaining the bronze medal in an event where a place on the podium has always eluded British Athletes illustrates Alain's skill and commitment - he is inspiration to us all."
Alain Baxter is a Scottish Institute of Sport athlete and is funded through the (Lottery) World Class Performance Programme.
Noel Baxter, Alain's younger brother, also competed in the Olympics, finishing 21 st.