Calgary, AB (October 2,  2025) – With a roster full of medal potential heading to the upcoming Milano Cortina 2026 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, and a talented next generation of world class ski racers on the horizon, Alpine Canada has launched a $2.5M fundraising initiative to ensure Canada’s National Team – across alpine, Para alpine and ski-cross - has the support and resources going into the season to fuel Canadian podium performances in the Games year and beyond. Chairman of the Alpine Canada Board of Directors, Tim Dattels, kicked things off by generously donating $500,000 to launch the effort and inspire others to support the critical need for funding.  

Alpine Canada’s ambitious goals at Milano Cortina 2026 provide a key moment in time to accelerate development of the next generation and to inspire the future of ski racing in Canada. The key to the success of this initiative is securing major gifts from prominent donors and all Canadians interested in the success of the CANskiteam. 

“I am proud to stand up for Canada and to support our world class athletes and coaches as they compete with the very best and pursue their Olympic dreams,” said Tim Dattels, Chair of the Board of Alpine Canada. “Philanthropy is essential to the success of ski racing in Canada, and the importance of donor funding is critical.” 

Additional support is needed in large part because federal funding for national sport organizations like Alpine Canada has remained flat for over 20 years, while costs have surged more than 50% with inflation. A weakened Canadian dollar adds further strain, as training and competition are largely Europe-based. Today, both Alpine Canada and its athletes face unprecedented financial pressure—some National Team members are required to contribute $20,000 of their own funds annually to their high-performance programs, while NextGen athletes pay twice that to stay competitive. The need for support has never been greater. 

This drive for funding will support areas with direct impact on athletic performance:  

1.     CANskiteam Training: Ensure critical on snow days and training blocks for current and future national team athletes are provided 

2.     Coaching and High-Performance Service Excellence: Secure world class coaching and staff supporting national team athletes to ensure the Canadian ski team has optimal support and preparation for international competition  

3.     Next Gen Development: Resources, training and development for the next generation of rising Canadian athletes with podium potential in the next 4-8 years  

“I thank Tim for his game-changing financial gift.  His support means so much to our athletes, coaches and staff who benefit from his belief in their potential.  His inspirational leadership continues to elevate the ski community.  His vision, generosity and a deep commitment to the pursuit of excellence makes a profound difference for athletes who represent Canada on the world stage.  I know Tim is hoping his donation will inspire more Canadians to get behind the Canada National Ski Team and stand together with our athletes as they represent Canada at the Olympic and Paralympic Games,” said Therese Brisson, President and CEO of Alpine Canada. 

In response to Tim’s generous gift, Alpine Canada recently received a matching $500,000 gift from an anonymous donor as well as several other commitments from additional donors and Alpine Canada Board members. With Alpine Canada fundraising activities in full swing, approximately 70% of the target has been secured — the remaining 30% is critical to ensure our athletes have the resources they need to reach the podium. 

Additionally, Alpine Canada has revitalized Podium Club, its major giving program. With an annual gift of $5,500+, members enjoy exclusive opportunities and access to the CANskiteam while playing a critical role in funding athlete programming, development and podium success. 

Supporters are invited to step into the start gate with the CANskiteam by making a donation or joining the Podium Club today. For additional information on how to stand up for Canada, please contact Joelle Efford, Executive Director, Development at jefford@alpinecanada.org or visit our website to make an immediate impact now: Donate Now 

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For more information or media inquiries please contact:  

Mark Halliday 
Alpine Canada 
403 777 3204 
media@alpinecanada.org 

About Alpine Canada  

Alpine Canada is the governing body for alpine, para-alpine, and ski cross racing in Canada, as well as for Canadian ski coaches, providing education, certification, insurance, and compliance with the coaching code of conduct. With the support of valued corporate partners and donors, along with the Government of Canada, Own the Podium, the Canadian Olympic Committee, and the Coaching Association of Canada, Alpine Canada develops Olympic, Paralympic, World Championship, and World Cup athletes to stimulate visibility, inspiration, and growth in the ski community.