Craigleith ski club host of SX World Cup finals in 2023

For the first time in six years, Canada will host the FIS Ski Cross World Cup Finals, the last international competition calendared for the 22-23 season, where the coveted Overall World Cup Champions are crowned.

Craigleith Ski Club in Collingwood, ON will host the world’s best ski cross racers in adrenaline-pumping action March 17-19, 2023, which will include qualifications, a World Cup race and conclude with the World Cup Finals. This is the last opportunity for racers to secure valuable points towards the Crystal Globe and Nations Cup titles.

“We are committed to bringing the excitement of World Cup events to Canadians every ski season, and we’re pleased that Craigleith has this opportunity to host their first ski cross event,” says Therese Brisson, CEO and President of Alpine Canada.

"I know I'm a bit biased with it being my home club but I’m really looking forward to seeing what this event becomes,” adds Kris Mahler, a member of the Canadian Ski Cross Team. “The potential for ski racing in Ontario has always been immense. With mass numbers in such close proximity, this location is the most like the European races where you'll see thousands of people come out to watch. The terrain itself is perfectly suited for a ski cross course build and with most of the hill visible from the base area the spectators should have great seats anywhere.”

With a dedicated team of professionals, a world class snowmaking system and one of the best race crews in Canada Craigleith Ski Club will ensure this is an exceptional race on the circuit. “We are very excited to be hosting the World Cup ski cross championship races on March 17th and 18th 2023,” says Jeff Courtemanche, General Manager. “This is the first time since Blue Mountain in 2017 that a final has been held in Canada and Craigleith is well positioned to be the host club. We welcome all athletes and guests to come out and cheer on the best racers in the world.”

A home field advantage also plays a role for the athletes and teams as well.

“Home races always hold a special feeling, specifically when friends and family get to come cheer you on,” adds Kris. “These are the people that truly gave roots to this dream and now they get to see everything it's grown to be. There is something freeing about that feeling and I find the pressure comes off just that little bit.”

FIS Ski Cross Race Director Klaus Waldner adds: "It is great to have the World Cup finals in Canada again and have one additional race ahead of the very final one. It will give everyone, finals qualified and not yet qualified athletes, the chance to race and on that last World Cup stage, which usually is not the case. We are happy and thankful to Alpine Canada and Craigleith Ski Club for this incredible opportunity and look very much forward to it."

Courtesy: Alpine Canada