Calgary, Alberta (March 30, 2022) – In a high-adrenaline, heart pumping competition, just days after the final ski cross World Cup race of the 2021-2022 season, young up-and-coming ski cross stars took to the track to win glory for their countries in the World Junior Championships in Veysonnaz, SUI. 

Competing on the world stage, many for the first time, was a thrill for the team.  

“It’s a big field compared to what we’re used to at the NorAms,” says Emeline Bennett (Whistler, B.C.).  

Sage Stefani (Whistler, B.C.) was top in the women’s competition for Canada, punching her ticket into the small finals and placing 7th overall. 

“Super fun experience, and I got to race with a lot of competitors that I haven’t seen before and I’m not used to. I’m happy to finish strong on a really long and demanding course,” says Stefani. 

This finish represents Stefani’s personal best in Europe and builds on her experiences in Europa Cup events in addition to NorAms and FIS races. 

On the men’s side, Nicholas Katrusiak (Whistler, B.C.) finished ahead of his teammates in 19th place overall, a strong showing from the junior athlete who was the youngest Canadian racer on the men’s side as well. 

“This was my first chance to test my skills against other junior athletes from around the world and see how I stack up,” says Katrusiak. “I think I skied well for my first time here, and it was a great opportunity to be on a world cup track again.” 

The course set was the same as the one used for the World Cup races just a week prior, something that was not lost on the team. “It’s so amazing to see something on television for the World Cup and then to see it in person and have nothing be changed,” Katrusiak adds. 

For more information or media inquiries please contact:  
Kylie Robertson 
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.