Calgary, AB. (Dec 14, 2023) — James Crawford (Toronto, ON) took fifth in today’s opening downhill of the season at the FIS Ski World Cup men’s race in Val Gardena, Italy. This is Crawford’s fifth career top 5 in World Cup downhill, while Cameron Alexander (North Vancouver, BC) finished 10th today for his fourth top 10 in 23 World Cup downhill starts.

On the classic Saslong course located in the heart of the Dolomites on a warm sunny day, Crawford was 14th out of the gate and raced his way to third before settling for fifth. Alexander was first on course today, and sat in the leader’s chair for four racers, before ending the day in 10th.

 “Quite happy with today’s result,” said Crawford. “I didn’t have the best training run coming into the race and to be able to put down a run that could contend with the top guys feels pretty good. The conditions were really good today. The course actually got a little quicker later in the race, and unfortunately, I got bumped off the podium but I’m looking forward to the next two days of racing.”

Other men racing today included Jeffrey Read (Canmore, AB) who punched into the points finishing 23rd after starting 55th, while Brodie Seger (North Vancouver, BC), in his first race back since an injury at last season’s world championships, placed 50th. Rounding out the Canadians were Kyle Alexander (North Vancouver, BC) in 55th and Riley Seger (North Vancouver, BC) in 60th.

Next races: (link to FIS Calendar)

Men speed continue racing in Val Gardena (ITA) with a SG on Friday and DH on Saturday.

Para-alpine get the season started with a pair of DH Saturday and Sunday in St. Moritz (SUI).

Women speed are in Val d’Isère (FRA) for a DH on Saturday and SG on Sunday.

Men’s tech race a pair of GS in Alta Badia (ITA) December 17 and 18.

Ski cross return to action Dec 21 and 22 in Innichen (ITA).

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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.