Calgary, AB. (December 1, 2023) – The best women ski racers in the world are in Tremblant this weekend for the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS) Alpine Ski World Cup Women's Giant Slalom. Tremblant hosted it’s first, and only FIS Alpine World Cup race in March 1983, when Canadian Laurie Graham became the first Canadian to win a World Cup downhill on home soil. There are races Saturday and Sunday, both starting at 11am ET and available on CBC Sports and Radio-Canada.
“It is so exciting to welcome the world to Tremblant to watch these incredible women perform at the highest level," said Patrice Malo, President and Chief Operating Officer, Station Mont Tremblant. “There has been a tremendous amount of work done by the organizing committee and all the volunteers in preparation for this weekend. The response from the community has been incredible and the tickets pre-sale surpasses the expectations. We are confident that Tremblant will deliver an outstanding event for the teams and spectators, and we wish everyone an enjoyable weekend here at Tremblant.”
Led by Valérie Grenier (St. Isidore, ON) skiing on her home hill, the Canadian team will be racing against a field that includes world champion, and also the person with the most World Cup wins, Mikaela Shiffrin (USA), Federica Brignone (ITA), Petra Vlhova (SVK) and Lara Gut-Behrami (SUI). The rest of the Canadian team is made up of Britt Richardson (Canmore, AB), Cassidy Gray (Panorama, BC) and Sarah Bennett (Stoneham, QC).
“It is with great pride that the Government of Quebec supports the hosting of the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup Women's Giant Slalom which will enable slalom fans to see the world's elite in action, in the beautiful Laurentian region,” said Caroline Proulx, Minister of Tourism and Minister Responsible for the Region of Lanaudière. “This sporting event provides Quebec with an extraordinary international exposure and contributes to its reputation as a winter destination par excellence. It promotes tourism in the region, while highlighting the expertise of our events industry.”
“It is a real privilege that the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup Women’s Giant Slalom is being held at Tremblant,” said Isabelle Charest, Minister Responsible for Sports, Recreation and the Outdoors. “The thrill of seeing the world's best female skiers right here in Quebec is a unique experience. These talented women from 20 different countries are truly inspiring. Seeing them compete in person will be a memorable experience. I invite everyone to come out in force!”
“When the world comes to Tremblant, sport excellence will be on full display,” said the Honourable Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Sport and Physical Activity. "The FIS Alpine World Cup Women’s Giant Slalom will showcase the talent, perseverance and grit of athletes from around the world. Through their commitment and dedication, these athletes are role models for young women everywhere to work hard and follow their dreams.”
The Tremblant World Cup will build community and be a key driver of economic development and tourism in the region. In this, the first of a three-year commitment, the event is projected to annually generate $14.3MM in economic impact, with $12MM staying in Quebec, and $4.5MM in wages for Quebecers.
“We are thrilled that Canada’s fastest women on skis will have the chance to race on home snow,” said Therese Brisson, President & CEO of Alpine Canada. “And we are incredibly thankful to all our sport and funding partners, including the Government of Canada and the province of Quebec for their support. The legacy from this World Cup race will live on and inspire future generations of ski racers, volunteers and in the community.”
“The process of putting this event together with our partners at FIS and Tremblant has been a wonderful and uplifting experience” added Brisson. “Having partners that share our commitment to producing a race event that excites Canadians, one that grows the sport and fans, delivers an amazing experience for athletes and fans, is commercially and environmentally sustainable, and provides a strong legacy for the sport and community is something we deeply appreciate.”
The Tremblant World Cup will welcome 67 athletes from 20 countries, 150 team staff, 300 volunteers, 75 broadcast production crew, 80+ media and thousands of fans to attend the races and festival activities over the weekend. The competition schedule, and a full list of events is available here.
Come be part of Canadian ski racing history this weekend and join the thousands of fans cheering on Canada’s Ski Team at Mont-Tremblant. There are some general admission tickets available for sale starting at $19, $15 for kids (link here).
For further information please contact:
Tremblant World Cup
Catherine Lacasse
clacasse@tremblant.ca