Tough-talking Rexova made of stern stuff

Listening to Alexandra Rexova's motto conjures up images of fierce victories and heartbreaking losses, and a long career of ups and downs.

However, the Slovakian Alpine skier is only 16 years old.

"'Go hard or go home' is my motto," said Rexova after claiming gold in the women's super-G VI with her guide Eva Trajcikova at the National Alpine Skiing Centre on Sunday.

She put in a performance belying her young age to top the podium, overcoming the challenges of reigning Paralympic downhill champion, Henrieta Farkasova, who fell on her run, and Great Britain's most successful Winter Paralympian, Menna Fitzpatrick.

"I'm very happy that we did it today, and I did it with my guide. Unbelievable," said Rexova, who ranked fourth in Saturday's women's downhill.

"When we finished, we knew that it should be enough for a medal, but we didn't expect to be first, so we are extremely happy," said guide Trajcikova.

"I get nervous easily and there are more photographers during competition. So I had to tell myself that I should concentrate on the score and not to think about all the behind-the-scenes stuff," said Rexova.

Rexova started skiing at the age of 4 and was later introduced to para sports at an international camp for juniors in Jasna, Slovakia.

"My mother loves winter sports, so I started skating and skiing with her. After the birth of my brother, I began skiing with my grandfather. At the beginning it was difficult but as I got better, skiing became my passion," she said.

Rexova regards fellow competitor Farkasova as her idol. Farkasova, 35, won her 10th Paralympic gold medal in women's downhill VI on Saturday.

"It's great that we are here together," Rexova said. "She is an unbelievable athlete, so we are happy to follow her steps."

Rexova and Trajcikova both lavished praises on the athletes' village.

"The Paralympic Village is very beautiful and I'm happy to live here," said Rexova. Trajcikova was keen to stress that they were having fun in the village, especially playing video games together.