Female jumpers snubbed by Rogge

Van, Willis and 13 others are hoping the IOC change their mind

International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge has failed to meet two female ski jumpers suing to take part at the Vancouver Olympics.

World champion Lindsey Van of the United States and Canada team member Katie Willis wrote to Rogge last week requesting a meeting.

They want the IOC to reconsider its 2006 decision to bar female ski jumpers from next year's Games.

"Totally ignored, as expected," said 24-year-old Van.

Willis and Van are among 15 ski jumpers who are suing because only male jumpers are allowed to compete at the Vancouver Olympics.

Why it's time to let ladies fly Anybody who is willing to stand on two long planks and throw himself or herself down an icy slope, wearing only a helmet and a cat suit for protection, deserves a medal Matt Slater

The IOC says women's ski jumping does not have enough international competitions to merit inclusion.

"The sport is definitely moving forward, but we need the Olympics to give us that final push so that we can be closer to the guys in equality," added Van.

The lawsuit filed last May against Vancouver organisers citing gender discrimination will be heard on 20 April before a single judge in the British Columbia Supreme Court in Vancouver.

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