Marielle Thompson of Whistler, B.C. has returned home following a remarkable 2023-24 season that saw her claim an unprecedented fourth Crystal Globe as the overall World Cup ski cross champion. Thompson's achievement ties her for the most ever FIS season titles, adding to an illustrious career that includes 31 World Cup victories, 67 podiums, and Olympic gold and silver medals. The Canadian athlete expressed pride in representing her country and sharing the moment with teammates who contributed to an exceptional season.
The Canadian ski cross team demonstrated remarkable consistency by securing its third consecutive Nations Cup title this year, marking the seventh championship in the last nine years. This sustained dominance underscores Canada's position as a powerhouse in international ski cross competition. Thompson was joined at the celebration event by world championship medalist Cameron Alexander, two-time Crystal Globe winner Reece Howden, and Paralympic multi-medalists Alexis Guimond and Mollie Jepsen, showcasing the depth of Canadian talent across both able-bodied and Paralympic disciplines.
The celebration also served as the launch of the 'Driven to Win' fundraiser, organized by Alpine Canada and BC Alpine. The initiative features a grand prize 2024 Porsche Cayenne AWD valued at $126,000, with proceeds designated to support alpine ski racing programs throughout British Columbia. Therese Brisson, CEO of Alpine Canada, emphasized that the fundraising efforts will provide vital support spanning from grassroots clubs to the national team level, helping develop the next generation of ski racing talent in the province.
Thompson's fourth Crystal Globe achievement places her among the most decorated athletes in FIS World Cup history, while the Canadian team's continued success in securing Nations Cup titles demonstrates the strength of the country's ski cross program. The simultaneous launch of the fundraising initiative represents a strategic approach to maintaining this competitive advantage by investing in future talent development. The combination of current athletic excellence and forward-looking support systems positions Canadian alpine skiing for continued success on the international stage.
