Calgary, AB. (Mar 24, 2024) — Kalle Ericsson (Kimberley, BC), with guide Sierra Smith (Ottawa, ON), raced to second place in today’s final giant slalom (GS) of the season at the FIS Para Alpine Ski World Cup Finals in Sella Nevea (ITA). Competing in the men visually impaired category the pair captured their fourth in GS podium to finish the season ranked third in the GS standings in this their rookie season on the World Cup circuit.

With wet snow falling making for difficult conditions, and in second place after the first run, Ericsson stumbled out of the gate on the second run but managed to recover and to hold on to second place. 

“The conditions were challenging today but we didn’t let that get to us and we tried to stick to our plan,” said Ericsson. “I was definitely frazzled after my pole slipped as I pushed out of the start second run but thankfully was able to pull it together to hold onto that second place.”

“I had no idea that I was in the running for an overall podium this season until after first run today. This being my first season with World Cup starts I didn’t even have it in mind. I am shocked and overjoyed with our season!”

Michaela Gosselin (Collingwood, ON) continued her strong comeback from injury finishing fourth today in women’s standing, while Kurt Oatway (Calgary, AB), racing in men sitting, was fifth after the first run and moved up a spot in the second run to finish fourth. The final race of these World Cup Finals is scheduled to be tomorrow’s super-G.

The last World Cup alpine race of the season, today’s men’s downhill at the FIS Ski World Cup Finals in Saalbach (AUT) was cancelled due to wind and course conditions. In the final downhill standings Cameron Alexander (North Vancouver, BC) finishes ninth and James Crawford (Toronto, ON) ends the season in 13th.

Next races: (link to FIS Calendar)

Para-alpine World Cup Finals wrap up March 25  

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Alpine Canada
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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.