June 27, 2018 (Calgary, AB)– Alpine Canada (ACA) hosted a successful Friends and Family gathering in Ottawa at the Klotz-Smith residence on June 21.

More than 30 guests from all walks of the ski racing world attended including Canadian Alpine ski team (CAST) alumni, former ACA staff members, current CAST parents and technical staff, local ski coaches, and current club racing families.

Julie Klotz, CAST alumni from 1985 to 1989 and active FIS TD, generously hosted the event at her Ottawa residence with husband Mike Smith.

Klotz’ family is no stranger to the ski community. Julie’s father, Trevor, was a CAST alumni from 1957 to 1958 and her daughter, Sierra, is currently on the development team, marking three generations of national team racers.

The evening was highlighted with the attendance of 91 year old Edouard Champagne who was with the Canadian National Alpine Ski Team for 21 years, from 1969-1987 as the Teams' Business Manager and Administrative Director, and from 1987-1990 as Director of Public Relations and Athlete Relations for Alpine Canada.

Vania Grandi, ACA CEO, spoke to the guests about her vision for sport unity across the country and for a common vision of excellence. She also invited local fans to support ACA by taking an active role as supporters in the form of financial and resource contributions, and as ambassadors to promote local club ski racing initiatives.

“It was an emotional evening for many to reconnect and we hope to repeat this around the country to bring our ski community together and share in the amazing friendships and experiences we’ve had while ski racing with our friends, teammates and families,” said Grandi.

For event photos, CLICK HERE.