Perseverance Illustrated at U16 Western Championships
Castle Mountain Resort, AB – The 2026 U16 Western Championships, presented by Sporting Life, were successfully held at Castle Mountain Resort from March 16–20, bringing together an outstanding field of young athletes and coaches from across Western Canada.
A total of 244 athletes, supported by 52 coaches and more than 125 dedicated volunteers, took part in the event. Hosted by the Westcastle Ski Club, the championships welcomed teams from British Columbia, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and Yukon. From start to finish, the event was a powerful reflection of the strength, spirit, and collaboration within the Western Canadian ski community.
Despite challenging “coastal-style” weather conditions, including periods of rain, snow, and wind, the atmosphere throughout the week remained overwhelmingly positive. Athletes rose to the occasion with remarkable resilience, adaptability, and determination, embracing each day’s challenges with maturity beyond their years. Whether navigating difficult course conditions or adjusting to schedule changes, their perseverance and commitment to performance were truly inspiring and a highlight of the championships.
The success of the event was made possible through the extraordinary efforts of the Westcastle Ski Club and its volunteer team. More than 125 volunteers dedicated countless hours both on and off the hill, demonstrating exceptional commitment, flexibility, and pride in delivering a high-quality event under demanding circumstances. Their willingness to step up in adverse weather conditions ensured that the competition ran safely and smoothly. This level of community support is the backbone of alpine ski racing, and the contribution of the Westcastle Ski Club cannot be overstated.
In anticipation of difficult weather, the Race Organizing Committee, led by Race Chair Lauren Lynch-Staunton, made the proactive decision to adjust the competition schedule two days prior to the event. This required significant coordination and adaptability from athletes, coaches, officials, and volunteers alike. Thanks to this collaborative effort, organizers successfully completed the Super-G, Giant Slalom, and Slalom races, with only the Skills and Team events ultimately cancelled due to weather conditions.
Competition took place across several of Castle Mountain’s premier race venues. The Super-G and Giant Slalom events were contested on the Lone Ranger venue from the top of the chair, while the Slalom races were held on Whiskey Jack. Across all disciplines, athletes demonstrated exceptional skill, grit, and sportsmanship, showcasing the depth of talent emerging across the western provinces.
Team Alberta delivered an impressive performance, highlighted by strong results across multiple clubs. Alberta’s female athletes were particularly dominant, sweeping the podium in all three events. Notable multi-medal performances were achieved by Ainsley Langley-Taylor, Lauren Cross, and Charles Blouin of Calgary Alpine Racing Club, along with Ellie Hyndman of Banff Alpine Racers.
Alberta Alpine extends its sincere and heartfelt thanks to the Westcastle Ski Club, all volunteers, officials, coaches, and partners, including the team at Castle Mountain Resort, whose collective efforts made this event possible. Hosting a championship of this scale requires an incredible level of dedication and teamwork, and the success of this year’s event stands as a testament to what can be achieved when a community comes together.
The 2026 U16 Western Championships will be remembered not only for the high level of competition, but for the resilience of its athletes and the unwavering support of its volunteers the hallmarks of a strong and thriving ski racing community.
Full results can be found here >>
Club Spotlight: The Westcastle Ski Club offers programs from NGSL through to FIS that develop confident, skilled, and well-rounded skiers. Whether the goal is to race at a high level or simply enjoy every run on the mountain, our athletes gain the tools to succeed.
Grounded in Alpine Canada’s Long-Term Athlete Development model, all of the WSC programming balances technical skiing, gate training and free skiing while making the most of Castle Mountain’s terrain and snow. Our Mission is to ‘provide competitive alpine ski racing programs focused on the development of youth into skilled athletes and responsible young adults through an athlete-centered, coach-driven approach supported by a strong parent and volunteer infrastructure.’
Time spent in gates not only builds racing ability but also creates stronger, more adaptable all-mountain skiers. With consistent training, quality coaching, and a supportive community, WSC athletes are prepared for competition and inspired to carry a lifelong passion for skiing.
For more information about Westcastle Ski Club and their programs, contact club president Kari Grandoni at kari@westcastle.org