Calgary, Alta. (November 26, 2021) — Canada’s Ski Cross team has set a compelling tone for the exciting season ahead, as two veteran athletes ski to remarkable results following return from injury. Canadian Brady Leman battled to an impressive photo finish, claiming silver at the first World Cup of the season on the 2022 Olympic track in Secret Garden, China, while teammate Britt Phelan won the small final, in her first race back in nearly two years.  

After a season-ending crash in Bakuriani, Georgia sidelined Brady in February 2021 after an already challenging season, he made a commitment to his recovery and to return to snow stronger than when he left it with a change in training and diet. Today his hard work paid off.

“It was pretty crazy! It feels like it’s been a long time since I got to step on the podium, so it’s an amazing way to cap off a comeback,” says Brady. “Super stoked to put down a great race, especially on the Olympic test course. It’s been cool to see all the infrastructure going into the Games, and it got the vibes going early in what was a big event. I’m stoked that I could step up.”

Britt Phelan, who last kicked out of the start gate in February 2020, left her mark in her first race back with a commanding win of the small final. Drawing on skill, experience, and a lengthy recovery, Britt showed her competition she is ready for the season ahead. 

“Fifth place really feels like a first place today. It's been almost two years since I've been in a world cup start gate, it’s been a long hard recovery, and so I couldn’t be happier about today. I am stoked for Brady too, who is also coming back from injury and getting on the podium with a photo finish in second place, I'm just really excited to get this thing going,” said Britt with a smile from ear to ear. 

Teammate Tiana Gairns competed with Britt in the small final, finishing the exciting race in 8th.

This track is a new addition to the 14-event World Cup circuit this season, a preview of what the world can expect to see at the Olympics in February. 

The team is back in World Cup action in Val Thorens, France, December 9-12, 2021.

FULL RESULTS: Men / Women

For more information or media inquiries please contact: 

Kylie Robertson | Communications Manager, 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.