Winter Olympics: Byron Wells withdraws from halfpipe

Byron Wells has pulled out of the men's halfpipe competition at the Sochi Olympic Games. Photo / Getty Images

New Zealand Olympic Team freeskier Byron Wells has withdrawn from the men's halfpipe competition at the Sochi Olympic Games due to injury.

Wells was due to compete early tomorrow morning NZT.

The 21-year-old landed awkwardly during training in the Extreme Park halfpipe in Rosa Khutor three days ago, seriously twisting his lower leg.

Wells only recently returned to full competition following an ongoing knee injury. He finished fourth in the Olympic halfpipe test event in Rosa Khutor in February 2013.

Wells said he is deeply frustrated with the injury and the decision to withdraw was not easy.

"I'm completely devastated. I had my sights set on a podium finish and was determined to get out there and do it. I have spoken with my medical team, my family and other members of the New Zealand Olympic Team, and have made the decision to withdraw."

Father and coach Bruce Wells said he feels for Byron but acknowledges the injury is something to be expected in the high-risk freeski sports.

"They're jumping off huge walls of ice with cutting edge tricks and these are high risk. We're all just hugely disappointed the injury is significant enough to keep Byron from doing what he knows he can do well."

Brothers Beau James and Jossi Wells will compete in halfpipe tomorrow along with teammate Lyndon Sheehan.