Calgary, AB. (Dec 7, 2023) — The 23/24 ski cross season began today at the FIS Ski Cross World Cup race in Val Thorens (FRA). The season opens with Canada looking to build on its already world leading 10 Nations Cups as the worlds top ski cross country.  

On a sunny day in Val Thorens, the highest resort in Europe, Brittany Phelan (Mont-Tremblant, QC) raced to fourth in the women’s race and Kris Mahler (Canmore, AB) took fourth in the men’s race. Phelan, having raced only one weekend last season due to injury, showed solid form through her heats, while Mahler won all his heats heading into the finals.

“Really happy with my skiing today,” said Phelan. “Being just eight weeks out from a procedure on my knee, I’ve had a limited amount of track time, so it’s validating to know that my skiing is right there. Fourth is bittersweet, just off the podium, but still very pleased to be in the big final and excited for another chance tomorrow.”

“Really grateful for the whole team, the coaches, doctors, physios, for helping me be ready on such a short timeline for the first World Cup of the season.”

“I did what I wanted to do today and that was to be confident through the rounds,” said Mahler. “Unfortunate to go out in the finals, but I tried to make an aggressive move and it wasn’t there. That’s just ski cross. Happy with the day, and excited to get another chance tomorrow.”

“Feeling good about the season ahead,” added Mahler. “Made some adjustments to my training and nutrition this summer and I felt really good today. We are looking for consistency and today was a good first step. Hoping that continues through the season.”

Hannah Schmidt (Ottawa, ON) won today’s small final to take fifth, while Marielle Thompson (Whistler, BC) finished eight to give Canada three women in the top 8.

In today’s men’s race Jared Schmidt (Ottawa, ON) was 21st, Gavin Rowell (Prince George, BC) 22nd and Carson Cook (Edmonton, AB) 26th.

Ski cross races again at Val Thorens tomorrow, Friday December 8th.

Next races: (link to FIS Calendar)

Women alpine speed race in St. Moritz (SUI) Friday, Saturday and Sunday

Men alpine tech is in Val d'Isère (FRA) racing Saturday and Sunday

Canada’s para-alpine team get their season started Thursday December 14 in St. Moritz (SUI)

Follow Canada’s Ski Team this season on Alpine Canada’s website, across our social media accounts and subscribe to our newsletter.

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.