March 4, 2022 (Panorama, BC) -- Despite Mother Nature’s best attempts to delay downhill action – first with fog, then with snow – the men’s race was completed with two Canadians charging into the Top 10: Raphael Lessard (Bromont, QC) in 6th place and teammate Tait Jordan (North Vancouver, BC) into 10th. 

“After it got cancelled yesterday, I was happy to get another shot at it today to try and improve,” says Lessard, after yesterday’s race was cancelled after ten competitors. “I had time to recover, and everything was perfect for me today.”

“There’s always more time that you can find on the hill, but I made it down and I can’t complain,” adds Jordan. “Being here is pretty special, especially on a home hill. Competing in races like this is so massive for taking that next step for the national team, which is ultimately where I want to go.”

Even after last night's snow fall, racers reported the course was holding up well through a 57-long start list, with volunteers working hard to ensure the event was completed and the course fair and safe.

And while many would be satisfied with a top 10 placement racing a discipline they do not train in frequently, Lessard refuses to stop here. “I think if I cleaned up some of the mistakes I had today, I could have been on the podium,” he reflects. “I’m a little bummed but aside from those mistakes I think I skied well and tried to attack. I’m ready for a medal.”

Jeff Thompson, Vice President of Domestic Sport Programs, agrees that while today’s performance from the Canadian team is strong, there’s more in the tank. “I thought the guys really stepped up and performed well and we’re looking forward to the super-G. Top 10 performances are for sure our goal, and both our men’s and women’s teams will be able to send it.”

FIS World Junior Championships continue tomorrow with the men’s and women’s super-G competitions scheduled.

For more information or media inquiries please contact
Kylie Robertson I Manager of Communications 
krobertson@alpinecanada.org I 403-777-3204

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. In 2020/21, Alpine Canada celebrated 100 years of rich tradition in competitive skiing in Canada.