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

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/R0VywvsIKEU” /]

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.

Calgary, AB — It is with great excitement that Alberta Alpine, in partnership with the new University of Calgary Alpine Ski Team (UCAST) Society, is moving forward with the formation of the inaugural University of Calgary Dinos Ski Team, and is seeking a Program Manager to oversee the athletic/academic integration for an impressive roster of alpine and ski cross athletes. In addition to being the point of contact for athletes navigating the University of Calgary Department of Athletics facilities and services, this individual will fill a vital role within our integrated system, leading on-snow programming for the Alpine Training Group C.

The Program Manager/C-Team Coach will gain valuable experience working within a University athletics environment, as well as integration and mentorship opportunities with the Alberta provincial system coaches and training groups. This individual will be the champion of all things Dinos Ski Team, and should bring a passion to work with young student athletes, a creativity to help this program evolve, and a desire to build this team to become known across North America.

For more information, please see the attached position description: AASA:UC Dinos Program Manager:C-Team Coach

We thank all applicants for their interest in this exciting opportunity.

Calgary, AB — Alberta Alpine is pleased to proceed with the process of building a renewed structure for the 2020/2021 provincial ski team programming by launching the search for Lead Coaches for the Women’s and Men’s Alpine Teams. These coaches will oversee the direction of programming, and working with a team of Assistant Coaches, will elevate athletes to their individual goals within the sport of ski racing. With an expanded mandate to promote the development of athletes to the National C-Team, among other successful outcomes, the Lead Coaches are expected to possess significant high-performance coaching experience, along with a vision to be strategic and creative in the changing landscape of our sport. The Alberta provincial program includes the most talented young athletes in our country. This is an exciting opportunity to work with young leaders in our sport, helping them achieve their individual greatness.

Applicants should submit a resume and identify a preference for which program (women’s or men’s) they see their skills and experience providing the greatest benefit to our athletes.

For further information on these exciting opportunities, please see the attached job posting: AASA – Lead Coach Positions

We thank all applicants for their interest in building this program.

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

[arve url=”https://www.youtube.com/embed/Hf8_Mu2xz64″ /]

The new definition of alpine racing on mobile: World Cup Ski Racing delivers the speed, realism, and precision of the fastest non-motorized sport in the world.

Race against live skiers from across the globe in four FIS disciplines – Downhill, Giant Slalom, Super G, and Slalom – as you climb your local and world-wide leaderboards. Connect with friends, create or join a team, and race your way to the eFIS World Cup podium.

Free to download, World Cup Ski Racing brings the mountains to your mobile, and the excitement of World Cup competition to your fingertips.  

Equip your racer with the latest and greatest from HEAD, Fischer, Rossignol, Stöckli, Völkl, LEKI, and Atomic.

http://sessiongames.com/games/fisalpine/

After consultations with Alpine Canada Alpin (ACA) and the other Provincial Ski Associations, Alberta Alpine has made the difficult decision to cancel the remaining ski race calendar of Alberta Alpine sanctioned races. This decision follows a recommendation from ACA and a decision from USSA to suspend all domestic events.

This cancellation applies to all races sanctioned by Alberta Alpine effective immediately, including races starting after March 12, 2020.

Races that are currently underway, such as the U16 National Championships, will continue, but Race Organizing Committees are encouraged to monitor the changing impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Training decisions can be made by individual clubs, families and athletes. We urge all involved to consider not just the health impacts on our racers, coaches and families, but for all those with whom you may come in contact.

Additional COVID-19 information and updates can be found here: https://www.alberta.ca/coronavirus-info-for-albertans.aspx

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.

Alberta Alpine is monitoring the current Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, and is following guidance provided by Alberta Health Services, the Government of Canada, and Alpine Canada Alpin, as it relates to travel advisories, and information for hosting events and mass-gatherings.

Outlined below are some general advisories:

The Alberta Alpine community would like to recognize the following athletes and coaches who were prepared to compete at the 2020 Arctic Winter Games:

Fort McMurray Athletes:
Mia Patterson
Joey Gouthro
Coach: Sue Greenberg

NAST (Nitehawk) Athletes:
Cole Larsen
Linden Thomson
Sarah Judge
Ethan Villiger
Karlee Larsen
Kate Goodward
Coach: Daniel Hadley

Joint statement from the Whitehorse 2020 Arctic Winter Games Host Society, Arctic Winter Games International Committee, Government of Yukon, City of Whitehorse, and Chief Medical Officer of Health

Today the Arctic Winter Games Host Society, with the support of the Yukon government and the City of Whitehorse, announced that the Whitehorse 2020 Arctic Winter Games have been cancelled following a recommendation from Yukon’s acting Chief Medical Officer of Health.

Cancelling the 2020 Arctic Winter Games was determined to be the most responsible precautionary measure to address concerns around the spread of COVID-19 and is supported by the Arctic Winter Games International Committee.

Yukon’s medical system has been and remains well prepared to manage suspected cases of COVID-19 that may arise in Yukon. While there are no cases of COVID-19 in Yukon and the risks low, other regions are experiencing unexpected community spread of the virus. With up to 2000 visitors anticipated to arrive in Whitehorse for the Arctic Winter Games, necessary steps must be taken to ensure the health and safety of Yukoners and visitors to the territory.

The organizers and co-hosts are disappointed to have to make this unfortunate decision and express deep gratitude to all those involved in preparing for the Whitehorse 2020 Arctic Winter Games.

Quotes

“The decision to cancel the Whitehorse 2020 Arctic Winter Games was not made easily but while we are disappointed, we are acting responsibly by following the recommendation of the Chief Medical Officer of Health. We will be meeting with the Host Society’s Board of Management, our funding partners and stakeholders over the coming days to build a plan for decommissioning the Games.”

– 2020 AWG Host Society President George Arcand

“The Arctic Winter Games has been an important part of developing athletes and communities across the north for 50 years,” said Flynn. “We are all looking forward to the next 50 and thank our partners for putting our Arctic Winter Games Family’s safety first.”.

– Arctic Winter Games International Committee President John Flynn

“It is out of an abundance of caution that today, as the Chief Medical Officer of Health, responsible for public health in the Yukon, I have recommended the cancellation of the 2020 Arctic Winter Games that were scheduled to be held here in Whitehorse beginning next week. I am making this recommendation out of concern for the health and safety of Yukoners, of all athletes, staff, volunteers and families, and for their home communities throughout the circumpolar North. COVID-19 is a contagious disease that spreads from person to person rapidly through respiratory secretions. In a setting like the Arctic Winter Games, even a suspected case would be devastating. It is with a heavy heart that I have had to make this recommendation. It is the responsible recommendation, and it is very unfortunate.”

– Yukon acting Chief Medical Officer of Health Catherine Elliott

“Our government supports following the Chief Medical Officer of Health’s recommendation. We believe this is the most responsible course of action in light of concerns around the spread of COVID-19. This is a precautionary measure that is in the best interests of our athletes, support staff, families, and communities across the circumpolar North. We know how much effort has gone into preparing for these games. We thank all those who have helped to organize and prepare for them.”

– Premier Sandy Silver

“We support the difficult but responsible decision to cancel the Games. Our community really stepped up for this event and I want to thank the nearly 2000 volunteers for their efforts and preparation for these Games.”

– Mayor of Whitehorse Dan Curtis

Quick facts

• The risk for COVID-19 remains low in Yukon and there are currently no cases of COVID-19 in the territory.
• Original article posted here.

Alberta Athletes competing at the 2020 FIS World Ski Junior Championships in Narvik, Norway, post results in speed races among the best juniors in the world! For more information, follow the link here. GO CANADA GO!

Alberta Athletes in attendance: Claire Timmermann (BAR/AST), Cassidy Gray (PANO/AST), Katrina van Soest (BAR), Jamie Casselman (PANO/AST), Liam Wallace (SUNSHINE/AST).

Top: Katrina van Soest in action at the 2020 FIS World Ski Junior Championships
Bottom: Claire Timmermann checks in with her #1 fan, her mom, Susan Timmermann

Live feed from WJC NARVIK 2020 is open to everyone for free use. Organizers will feed to YouTube, stream is in 1080p. All recordings will be available on same channel for all races of the championship Narvik 2020.

Watch the AST’s Jamie Casselman, Claire Timmermann and Cassidy Gray in Norway!

Downhill: Women
https://youtu.be/dQ2q8QYaZVs

Downhill: Men
https://youtu.be/G2r_AyesHYo

Super G: Women
https://youtu.be/3le4AF-1WOg

Super G: Men
https://youtu.be/mrHv3kFabF0