Val Thorens, FRA (December 11, 2021) — After several weather-related delays this week, the second stop on the Audi FIS Ski Cross World Cup circuit was able to proceed today in France. The Canadian women laid down an absolutely dominant performance with Britt Phelan claiming the silver and three of her teammates skiing in the small final.

There is nothing slowing Britt’s return the top now that she’s back competing; her first World Cup appearance in Secret Garden, China two weeks ago landed her at the top of the small final in 5th place and today she fought hard in gnarly conditions brought on by excessive snowfall throughout the week to claim 2nd. Her hard work and patience throughout a lengthy recovery after suffering a season-ending knee injury in February 2020 in Megève, France is paying off as she picks up right where she last left off on the world stage. “It was awesome. Super challenging weather and lots of holds or delays in every run, but I had solid qualifications and had a good plan and stuck to it all day,” says Britt.

“I think I skied quite tactically well, technically well, and had a really, really good day. It feels so good to be back on the podium and we get to do it all again tomorrow [in Van Thorens]!”

Canada is known for the depth in the team, and the women showed their dominance today claiming four of the top eight spots. Up-and-comer Hannah Schmidt skied a personal best performance, collapsing in the rough finish as she crossed the line first in the small final for 5th place, followed by teammate Tiana Gairns racing to a 6th place finish. 

In her first race back from a season-ending injury last year, Courtney Hoffos didn’t miss a beat, impressively racing to the small final and finishing 8th.

“It was great getting back into heats again and felt good and natural to do it right beside my teammates,” says Courtney. 

“Skiing alongside my teammates eased my nerves being in my first small final,” adds Hannah. 

“We’re all super proud of our results today,” Tiana agrees.

The team will compete again Sunday in Val Thorens for one last race before moving on to Arosa, SUI for races December 13-15, including the only team event on the World Cup schedule.

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