Hello everyone, I should start by introducing myself. My name is Austin Boehm, I am 19 years old, and the newest member of the Alberta Ski Cross Team. I was raised in a small town in Northern British Columbia called Williams Lake and have been racing for 5 years. When I am not skiing you can find me outside as my favourite summer activity is mountain biking. In the summers I work hard as a tree planter to raise enough funds to ski all winter and go to school. Currently I am enrolled at the University of Calgary and taking classes while skiing.

I would like to start off by saying “wow” what a crazy year. It appears when things get wild, everything gets wild at the same time. Well at least that is the story for me. I was accepted onto the team this summer and had been hitting the dryland training hard thanks to the amazing trainers at CSI. Approaching the season our team had a slight hiccup; a COVID-19 scare. The team powered though, and we all came out healthy. It was now time to get some real training in. We packed our bags and headed to Panorama for a first training camp, but for me the camp came to a quick close. Unfortunately, on the second day I took an unlucky tumble while training GS and later found out I had torn my ACL. Just over three weeks has passed since my injury and I have been rehabbing in preparation for surgery in Golden later this week. I am very grateful for the support received from Alpine Canada and Alberta Alpine during this time. My focus has changed from skiing fast to healing fast. With all the new time on my hands I have been able to dedicate a lot of time to school and have developed a few new hobbies, like playing the guitar. I would like to give a huge thank you to everyone who has helped me, especially everyone at Alberta Alpine. I will be back soon thanks to the support of my team, my coaches and many more. Wish me luck! Happy holidays!!

With Covid on the rise in Calgary, there was a lot of pressure on us to keep up our Covid protocols during our races in Panorama this past week. Racing is usually a fairly social event for the Alberta Ski Team, as it is one of the few times we get to see our friends from other provinces. While they were still there, we had to be mindful to keep our distance despite our desire to go back to normal. We were all just happy to be able to race, and I would like to thank Panorama and volunteers for putting the race on responsibly and safely. It was great mentally for us to get back into the swing of things in a safe way, and was super fun too! I am very grateful that we do an outdoor sport and were still able to race while staying healthy and safe while following all the protocols put in place. Each team had a different area of the corral and kept far apart from one another, all volunteers wore masks, and all athletes wore masks until we were in the start. As athletes we are continuing to be extremely mindful of the privilege we have of continuing to train in such a difficult time, and are continuing to be safe and social distance whenever possible, and wear masks when not. We now have a large training block coming up since provincial restrictions have solidified, and the whole team is extremely grateful for our opportunities to train in a safe environment, thanks to Alberta Alpine and Panorama. Looking forward to a good Christmas training session, and wishing all those reading a safe and happy holiday season!

Last week saw our first ski cross camp in almost seven months! While we had a few days skiing around Calgary before hand, it was really great to be back in the mountains and to feel a little cut off from the crazy world that we currently live in. I cannot express enough how lucky I feel to be able to escape to skiing in times like these. We are very fortunate to continue to do what we do safely outdoors! We were also extremely lucky with beautiful, warm weather last week, a treat for this time of year!

Any day on snow where I can feel my toes is a great day in my books! We are also so grateful for the amazing start sections provided to us in Panorama! I think the whole team was excited to feel like we had barely missed a beat when we got to skiing it! One of our guest coaches for the next few weeks, Matt Carres, even got in on the fun and was ripping up the start with us! It was super awesome to see him progress throughout the days, and trying out our coaching skills is also a fantastic way for us to learn and improve ourselves. Thanks Matt for being so optimistic and stoked every day, your energy on the hill was fantastic! Also huge thanks to our coaches JM and Kya for navigating these crazy times with absolute grace.

Our plans have changed so many times and they will continue to change throughout these next few months; knowing you guys are always one step ahead takes so much stress off of us and allows us to focus on what’s important: skiing!

I wish everyone a safe and healthy holiday season. While many things in the world are uncertain right now, I am certain that we live in one of the most amazing places on earth and we are blessed here in Alberta with so many winter activities! I know this season I will appreciate skiing more than ever before, and I wish you all do as well.

Thank you for reading!

-Alexa

Hey guys, Alex here!

I know I am not the only one eagerly waiting for the 2021 competition season to kick off as the past year has been quite the change of pace. Although, the time off has given me the opportunity to re-group and reflect on my past season and how to improve for the next.

Upon reflection, I can say that I found my stride last year,  which brought up my consistency and intensity and enabled me to enjoy my sport more than ever. Finishing 4^th overall on the Nor-Am circuit for 2019-20 was a tremendous highlight for me and I can’t wait to carry that momentum forward! It was disappointing to not cap off the end of the season with more races, but everyone’s health and wellness is the highest priority.

A little recap on what I have been up to this last little while:

Working as a framer throughout the spring and summer months helped me stay physically fit when the gyms were closed. Since re-opening, I have been working nonstop in the gym and having lots of coffee fueled nights as a Dinos varsity athlete does. When the weather was nicer, I took every opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. Taking mountain bike day trips and getting a little lost in the wild backpacking.

I took the 6 feet rule seriously and made it more of a 60-kilometre rule! I couldn’t say the same for the wildlife as I had some curious cows visit my tent throughout the night.

It has been such a blessing to have my family of teammates and coaching staff as support. It has made this last bit of quarantine manageable. From zoom meetings and game nights I have felt much less isolated here at home. I don’t know what I’d do without everyone’s infectious positivity (probably something on the side of re-enacting The Shining).

I’d like to thank everyone in Alberta Alpine for working as hard as you do and that’s a cornerstone for how great this season will be, COVID setbacks and all.

With hills open and all the safety guidelines in place, it’s looking to be another wonderfully snowy season that I can’t wait to share with all of you.

Stay healthy and earn those turns!

-Alex

Game on!

After what has been the strangest off-season we have ever had to navigate, the AST was able to manage a successful camp to Saas Fee, Switzerland.

The team set off to Zurich on September 25 for a scheduled 18 days of training up on the beautiful Saas Fee glacier at 3500m above sea level. Talk about a shock to the lungs! After climbing 1800m in 25 minutes, with all of our gear and a bundle in tow, the coaching staff just about fell over! I’m happy to report that we adjusted nicely after the first few trips up and through the mountain (there’s actually a train that takes you up through the mountain after two gondola rides).

The camp started with five perfect days, the ones that all ski racers and coaches dream about: hard snow, sunny skies and happy faces. We all soaked in this return to snow and something resembling a normal season. This was surely going to be a camp for the ages, until a meter of snow fell which left us with three consecutive down days and skepticism on what we would get out of the camp.

As it turned out, 10 more consecutive days was what we had in store and we were determined to get the most out of this opportunity. Was it challenging? Absolutely. But everyone put their heads down and worked hard each day. Of course, we had to monitor fatigue and ensure the environments were appropriate each day, but I am proud of the effort everyone put in and the steps that were made.

All in all, I would chalk this trip up as a success. The team of athletes and coaches came together organically and were able to set the tone for the season. With the exception of one minor injury, all athletes are home healthy and ready to go for November.

I’d like to thank our wonderful host at the Hotel Tenne for their hospitality and food, the soccer field for some outstanding games, saves by Jimbo and the kneipp for its freezing cold rejuvenating dips. Of course this camp would never have happened without the 18 athletes and their families who put their trust in us to travel during these times. Thank you all for the opportunity and the lasting memories. 

As we enter our North American ski season I want to assure you that once you get familiar with wearing a face mask all the time, it really is not that bad. Humans are extremely adaptable and I was shocked at how comfortable it all became as time passed.

Let us all stay safe and ski fast! The AST looks forward to seeing you all on the hill!

Gavin Preziosi

Hey everyone, Zac here!

I would like to start off my athlete journal by saying that I hope everyone is staying healthy and sane during these difficult times while quarantined.

I am well and doing everything I can in order to stay healthy. These days I have been doing home workouts every day. My workouts include sprints, weighted lunges, weighted squats, core exercises and of course some upper body exercises as well. Although the gyms are closed I have found the motivation to do these workouts every day in order to be on track for next season.

With my season being cut short I was a little disappointed as I missed out on achieving one of my biggest goals which was to compete at World Junior Championships. Although it was canceled I am still pleased that I qualified and was selected to attend. I did accomplish my goal of forerunning the World Cup at Nakiska, what a great experience it was to be in a World Cup environment and around the best athletes the world has to offer. With that said, overall I had a good season and I am happy with my results. Although I am happy, I am still hungry for more and ready to achieve many more goals and accomplishments next season.

Last Tuesday I had the fantastic opportunity to go on my first mountain bike ride of the year with Alberta Ski Team athlete Caeden Caruthers as well as Alberta Alpine President Rob McCloskey. Although this was my first ride of the season it was also my first mountain bike ride in Alberta and it was great! We did a total of 18.3km, each six feet apart of course, and I am already eager for more!

Not only was it an amazing change of pace to be in the great outdoors but it was also nice to be around friendly faces and be able to have real conversations that didn’t involve a computer screen or a phone. Although quarantine is not over, with the parks and recreations in Alberta slowly opening back up I believe everyone will begin to regain sanity and morale will surely go up!

With such a positive experience getting back out in the mountains, I now have hope that the upcoming ski season will go off without a hitch. Although it may have a few restrictions, I am impatiently waiting to be able to be back on the slopes, clicking into my skis, and pulling out of the start gate once again!

Lastly, I would like to thank my coach JM, Alberta Alpine, the MSM World Cup Athlete Development Fund, the Mont Ste Marie Ski Club community, and everyone who supported me over the past season!

Once again stay healthy!

This has been Zac Reynolds, over and out!

Check out Zac’s Athlete Profile here.

Check out the latest ASXT Athlete Journal video submission from Reece Ralph. You can also find out more about Reece here.

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Hi Everyone,

It’s Jamie here, checking in for my last athlete journal. The past month has seen a lot of changes in the world and in ski racing due to Covid-19. It all happened so fast, so I thought I would take this time to let you know how it has unfolded for me.

Near the end of February, Raphael, Liam, and I left to Norway for the World Junior Championships. Our first stop was in Trysil for a six-day training camp with coach Greg Frechette. We had some amazing SG, SL, and GS training with the Norwegian Junior and World Cup teams.

Then, we headed to Narvik to meet up with the rest of our World Junior’s team, which included two of my teammates, Cassidy and Claire. Northern Norway is one of the most beautiful places I have ever been; looking out the plane window at the endless, snow-covered fjords was absolutely breath-taking.

Once we got settled, it was time to kick off the events with DH and SG. The track had to be shortened due to some weather issues, but it was still a fast and exciting course. We all gained some valuable speed experience and Liam surprised everyone with an 11^th place finish in the Super-G from bib 68! The next day, the women did their alpine combined race and the men were able to get the SL portion of their alpine combined off. I started bib 1 in the SL and kept the lead all the way to the end, winning my first World Juniors run!

Unfortunately, the SG portion was later cancelled and I was unable to get the chance to compete for the gold medal. This was greatly disappointing for me; however, it also gave me confidence to know I can compete with the best in the world. The last race held at World Juniors was the women’s GS where Cassidy achieved a strong 21^st place result.

At 10 pm on the night before the men’s GS race, we got some news. World Juniors was cancelled due to coronavirus. This was followed by the news, two days later, that the remainder of our season was cancelled. Nor-Am Finals, Nationals, and Spring Series were all gone. While this situation was unfolding, I experienced a whirlwind of emotion.

Going from the highlight of my career, sitting in the leader box at World Juniors, to such an abrupt halt to the season, was very disappointing. It is hard to look back and think what could’ve been. It is hard to think about all the time and work we have put in to this sport without getting the chance to achieve the rewards. It is hard to see the sport you love disappear so suddenly. However, this virus is much larger than that and I am glad to be safe at home with my family. One good thing in all of this, that I am very excited about, is that I secured a World Cup spot for next year in alpine combined because of my Nor-Am ranking.

Spending the last two weeks at home in quarantine has given me lots of time to reflect. It has made me realize how strong my passion for skiing truly is. In fact, being locked up in my house can’t even stop me from finding ways to ski. I have been occupying my time by coming up with different ways to train in quarantine. First, I built a start ramp out of all the snow I could pile up in my backyard. I set up race timing on it and did about 200 runs in a 1.7 second course. I analyzed my technique with video and I was able to improve by a whole 0.15 seconds. I started building a home gym with, the biggest project being, a new squat rack. I am hoping to also get out for some xc skiing and mountain biking soon. The preparation for next season has already started.

I would like to thank all our sponsors that supported us this year. I would also like to thank all my teammates and coaches for making this season one to remember. I couldn’t have asked for a better crew to experience it with; it was one of my most fun years of ski racing ever. Although we didn’t have quite enough time to show our full potential, we accomplished many goals and proudly represented Alberta with our passion for ski racing.

I hope you and your families are staying healthy, enjoying some family time and being able to get outside for some fresh air and exercise. Thanks to all for the season; I can’t wait to see you next year!

-Jamie Casselman

Check out Jamie’s Athlete Profile here.

Check out the latest AST Athlete Journal video submission from Gavin Donald. You can also find out more about Gavin here.

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Hi Everyone!

We’ve had a crazy couple of months on the road. With this came many highs and lows for all of us but we have a strong team and together we push each other to be the best versions of ourselves. Our team dynamic is what earns us podiums and makes our (basically 12 month) season sustainable.

I’m sure from the eyes of bystanders, our lives look compelling, but you guys get the glorified version of our day-to-day schedule consisting of early mornings, long travel days, time away from family and friends and countless hours in the gym. Since January, we’ve been away for almost 8 weeks skiing all over the continent. I wouldn’t trade these opportunities for anything, but I’d be lying if I said it was easy. I’ve learned a lot while away with the team, had some great and some not so great results, improved my skiing and had lots of fun with my friends.

Two weeks ago, the World Juniors team was announced. I was honoured to make the team and have the chance to represent both Alberta and Canada on the world stage. Like most athletes, I’m hard on myself and this is a great reminder that my skiing is on the right track and up to par with others my age across the world. Unfortunately, following the Coronavirus outbreak, the race has been cancelled. I was looking forward to our trip to France but lots of factors are out of our control and I hope to redeem myself next year!

Following this unforeseen virus outbreak, our plans for the next month have completely changed, and our mindset has shifted – now focusing on improving our technical skills rather than being in the racing mindset. This month the team is heading to Panorama to forerun and race the speed events and get in some GS training, then we’re off to Big White to race the final FIS series of the season.

Initially, I was upset about the cancellations and felt it was unfair that our season got cut so short. But it’s important to not lose sight of our long-term goals and keep training and working towards achieving them. I’m grateful for some time closer to home over the next couple weeks and hope to see you on the hill!

-SVC

Check out Sarah’s Athlete Profile here.

From day to day you have to be mentally fast, both in your actions while skiing to the way you treat every day as a new day and move forward. I find my journey through ski racing has had a lot of ups and downs, similar with most ski racers. It is a sport that fluctuates so quickly in results through on and off days, snow conditions, and mental game. 

Hola my dudes!

I am Mara Bishop from the Alberta Ski Cross Team. The ski cross season is nearing its end, but the team has had one amazing season! Our races in Calabogie were awesome, our team left with three thirds, three seconds, and one amazing first place. I finished 3^rd and 2^nd hitting the Nor Am podium for the first time in three years. The course in Calabogie was a bit disappointing since we had just competed on a smaller world cup track but with only having 7 volunteers the race went off without a hitch. The second race block in Calabogie I was amped for, hoping to keep improving and race even harder. Unfortunately in small finals on the first race day I hit my head and was left with a concussion and no ability to move head. The team pulled through the entirety of the eastern block with smiles on our faces, we are all so happy with the improvement in our skiing and the camaraderie we have built within the team.

We only had a week home in Calgary before flying out to the next race in Colorado. Our week home we stayed in the gym and did some jump training at Winsport. Jean Marc was an angel who drove from Calgary all the way to Ottawa and back with the trailer filled with our equipment. He only had two days at home before driving down to Colorado to meet the rest of the team in Denver to drive out to the last Nor Am of the year. Ski Cooper was an awesome race from what I heard, our team crushed it! Callum got second both days, Ryan got 3^rd hitting the podium for the first time this season, Alexa left with a 3^rd as well. I am so happy for my team!

The team was treated to a special day in Jackson Hole to rip up a well deserved free ski day in the best place ever. While I am stuck in Calgary recovering well, I feel very lucky to be able to work with CSI and Group 23 to get myself back on skis!

The team is heading into the last leg of the season, March holds one FIS race in Big White, BC and a handful of Europa Cup races which a few athletes from the team will go over to compete in. As well World Juniors are coming up and we have quite a few athletes who may be going but that is still up in the air. However, for this being the first year of the Ski Cross team I believe we did a great job showing that we are a force to be reckoned with. We wouldn’t be able to be the team that we are without our coach JM and the help from head office!

As always, thank you to everyone that has supported us this year! Being a part of the Alberta Alpine family has been wonderful.

Yours truly,

Bish

Check out Mara’s Athlete Profile here.