Canadian Ski Cross Champion Marielle Thompson Celebrates Fourth Crystal Globe, Launches Fundraising Drive

Following an exceptional 2023-24 season that culminated in her unprecedented fourth Crystal Globe as the overall World Cup ski cross champion, Marielle Thompson of Whistler, B.C. has returned home alongside her accomplished teammates to celebrate their collective achievements and initiate a new fundraising campaign. Thompson's fourth Crystal Globe achievement ties her for the most FIS season titles ever recorded, further cementing her legacy in a career that includes 31 World Cup victories, 67 podium finishes, and both Olympic gold and silver medals. Her consistent performance at the highest level demonstrates the strength of Canada's ski cross program and its ability to produce world-class athletes year after year.

The Canadian ski cross team's success extends beyond individual accomplishments, having secured its third consecutive Nations Cup title this season and its seventh championship in the last nine years. This sustained dominance underscores the program's systematic approach to athlete development and competitive excellence. Thompson expressed her pride in representing Canada internationally and sharing this celebratory moment with teammates who contributed to such a remarkable season. The team's collective achievements highlight the effectiveness of Canada's alpine sports infrastructure and coaching systems in maintaining competitive advantage on the global stage.

Joining Thompson at the celebratory event were world championship medalist Cameron Alexander, two-time Crystal Globe winner Reece Howden, and Paralympic multi-medalists Alexis Guimond and Mollie Jepsen. Together, these athletes helped launch the 'Driven to Win' fundraising campaign organized by Alpine Canada and BC Alpine. The fundraiser features a grand prize 2024 Porsche Cayenne AWD valued at $126,000, with proceeds designated to support alpine ski racing programs throughout British Columbia. The initiative aims to strengthen the development pipeline from grassroots participation to national team competition.

Therese Brisson, CEO of Alpine Canada, emphasized the fundraiser's importance in sustaining the sport's growth and competitive future. The financial support generated will benefit programs across multiple levels, ensuring that British Columbia continues to produce world-class ski racing talent. This comes at a crucial time when maintaining Canada's position in international alpine sports requires consistent investment in athlete development, coaching resources, and program infrastructure. The success of athletes like Thompson and her teammates serves as powerful inspiration for aspiring skiers while demonstrating the tangible results of sustained organizational support and strategic investment in winter sports development.