Canada Captures Nations Cup 

Calgary, AB. (March 30, 2025) — It was a banner day for Canada and for Reece Howden (Chilliwack, BC) at today’s FIS Ski Cross World Cup Finals in Idre Fjall (SWE). Howden won for the seventh time this season and in doing so captured his third Crystal Globe and also helped Canada to its fourth consecutive Nations Cup.

In the final race of the season, the Crystal Globe, given to the World Cup season point leader, came down to the big final as Howden lined up next to his closest competitor Italy's Simone Deromedis. After racing from the front in his three heats today, Howden had to battle teammate Kris Mahler (Canmore, AB) who had strong starts all day, before a late pass gave Howden the win. This is Howden’s fourth win in the last five races, his 18th career World Cup win and his third Crystal Globe in five years to go along with Globes in 2021 and 2023.

“The goal has been three Globes and while I haven’t been able to go back-to-back, to do it in five years is amazing,” said Howden. “There are a lot of ups and downs in this sport and having confidence is key. As I’ve matured, I know what I’m capable of and I’m able to move on from the bad days.”

“There was no walking away with the Globe this season. It was a mental and physical battle the last few weeks of the season with the standings so tight and going through all the rounds keeping an eye on the other guys. It was amazing to be in the finals with Kris. He skied so well today it helped me relax a little having him there.”

“I’m so happy and thankful for all of the amazing support, and I am so proud to represent the maple leaf and to build on Canada’s ski cross history.”

Mahler finished fourth today for his best result of the season, while Jared Schmidt (Ottawa, ON) was 11th, Kevin Drury (Toronto, ON) 13th and Gavin Rowell (Prince George, BC) 23rd.

On the women’s side, Courtney Hoffos (Windermere, BC) finished second today, her third straight World Cup race finishing second, for her fifth podium of the season, to go along with a World Championship silver medal last week. Abby McEwen (Edmonton, AB) was ninth today.

Canada continued to stake it’s claim as the world leader in ski cross capturing the Nations Cup, awarded to the country with the most World Cup points, for the fourth year in a row, the eighth time in the last 10 seasons and for the 12th time in the 18 times the trophy has been presented.

“The 2025 season is in the books and its been super exciting, disappointing and thrilling, one of the best seasons that I’ve ever been a part of,” said Stanley Hayer, Head Coach, Ski Cross World Cup. “This is an individual sport but for the coaching staff it’s unbelievable when the whole team performs like this group has done all year. Hoping that we can carry this momentum into the summer and into the Olympic year.”

“Hats off to Reece capturing his third Crystal Globe. One of strongest athletes, both physically and mentally that I’ve ever met. Reminds me a lot of Brady Leman when he was dominant, it’s unbelievable to have an athlete like that and get to work with him.”

“A big shoutout to our injured athletes who are part of the team, and to the staff, the ones at home who don’t get to see us racing, and to the ones on the road who sacrifice their time and so much of their being for the team. Thank you to all the fans, the athletes and the staff for a special season.”  

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

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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.