Calgary, AB. (Dec 12, 2023) — Hannah and Jared Schmidt, brother and sister from Ottawa, Ontario, stood on top of the podium today at the FIS Ski Cross World Cup races in Arosa (SUI). Canadians also took second in both the men’s and women’s races with Marielle Thompson (Whistler, BC) picking up her 60th podium finish and last season’s Crystal Globe winner Reece Howden (Chilliwack, BC) taking second on the men’s side.

In very challenging conditions with a mix of snow and rain under the bright lights at the night race in Arosa, Jared dominated the day finishing first in all five heats. Hannah was nearly as dominant winning three of her four heats. This is Hannah’s first World Cup win, and it comes just four days after Jared won his first World Cup race last Friday in Val Thorens. With his win, Jared extends his lead atop the men’s ski cross standings.

“I took a lot of motivation from Jared’s win last week,” said Hannah. “I was determined to prove to myself that I can stand on the top of the podium and I’m super happy that I was able to do it. I got a little lucky in the finals, but this race is so quick, it’s really a sprint and I was pretty dialed in today.”

“I heard that Hannah won when I was in the start and it gave me a little extra boost,” said Jared. “I carried a lot of confidence from last week, and I had some good starts today that really helped. It’s a great feeling and to see my sister there is pretty special.”

“The course crew were amazing in getting this race completed today. It was really challenging conditions for everyone and obviously very happy that we were able to race.”

Giving Canada three women in the top eight was Brittany Phelan (Mont-Tremblant, QC), while on the men’s side Gavin Rowell (Prince George, BC) had a career best seventh place finish, and Kris Mahler (Canmore, AB) was 10th, with Canada placing four men in the top 10.

Other men racing today were Kevin Drury (Toronto, ON) 35th and Carson Cook (Edmonton, AB) finished 38th.

Next races: (link to FIS Calendar)

Men alpine speed is in Val Gardena (ITA) racing Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

Canada’s para-alpine team get their season started Saturday in St. Moritz (SUI).

Women alpine speed race in Val d'Isère (FRA) Saturday and Sunday.

Ski cross return to action Dec 21 and 22 in Innichen (ITA).

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

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.