The Whistler Cup (WC) is a globally recognized youth alpine ski race, and there's no other contest quite like it in North America. Now going into year 32, the Whistler Mountain Ski Club (WMSC) and key sponsor O2E Brands are prepared to welcome 500 athletes from across Canada and 16 nations from April 9 to 13—with more yet to be confirmed as of this writing.
All of these skiers are about to grasp a rare opportunity to compete against the best of their respective age divisions on an international stage. Numerous World Cup veterans, some Olympians and even a few all-time greats have participated in this event before furthering their successful careers: Mikaela Shiffrin, Lindsey Vonn, Marcel Hirscher, Tina Maze and Thomas Mermillod Blondin, to name a few.
"I am honoured and excited to accept the co-chair position of the O2E Brands Whistler Cup. Many great visionaries have done a lot of heavy lifting to bring this incredible event to the level it currently enjoys, and I'd like to recognize and thank them for their contributions," said Canadian Ski Hall of Famer Rob Boyd in a press release. "There are some big shoes to fill going forward. Through the many partnerships, supporters, parents and athletes, we can build on that momentum and ensure the Whistler Cup evolves and thrives for generations to come!"
Just as thrilled for what lies ahead is Broderick Thompson, a two-time Olympic athlete who recently returned to snow after a debilitating 2023 crash in Beaver Creek, Colo.
"Whistler Cup is a huge step into the diverse world of ski racing both at a competitive and community level. You’ll make friends that, if you stick with it, you’ll race for your whole career—right from these U14 races all the way to the Olympics," Broderick said. "Embrace all the moments at Whistler Cup, from the race course to the banquets and even the fresh tracks, the early morning load.
"I have to say: without insight from the Whistler Cup, I would not have had the vision and focus that helped me to my World Cup success."
'Can’t wait to see this next generation shred'
Broderick is by no means the only homegrown skier who views the WC as a vital part of their development.
More than just a series of races, the WC is known for generating a favourable environment for interpersonal connection. Broderick's older sister Marielle, a four-time Crystal Globe winner in ski cross, remembers the team meals as the highlight of an event she describes as "a lot of fun both on and off the slopes."
Canadian alpine speed demon Brodie Seger found that this melting pot of cultures gave his younger self a little extra fuel out of the start gate.
"My memories of Whistler Cup were all about the excitement of meeting the best athletes from around the world in my first real taste of international competition," he remarked. "Friendships and rivalries were born that would push me for years to come. I loved seeing how many nations were willing to come all the way to our home turf to celebrate that same experience, and I hope to see it continue for a long time still."
Six-time Paralympic medallist and WMSC alum Mollie Jepsen added: "Whistler Cup was such a highlight of my ski racing journey! It’s so amazing to see the community come together and to meet and compete against racers from all over the world! Can’t wait to see this next generation shred!"
Local World Cup talent Stefanie Fleckenstein also spoke of how her WC days granted lifelong friendships with women who are now her athletic rivals. She looks forward to helping inspire the next generation.
Brian Scudamore, founder and CEO of O2E Brands and 1-800-GOT-JUNK?, told the media: "O2E Brands is proud to sponsor the Whistler Cup again this year. Having seen first-hand how this sport is shaping the futures of young athletes globally, I am continually inspired by WMSC's philosophy of 'developing champions in life and sport.' Supporting this cause through O2E Brands' sponsorship—where we strive to elevate the everyday experience of home services—feels like a perfect fit."
For more information, visit https://www.whistlerblackcomb.com/explore-the-resort/activities-and-events/event-detail-page.aspx?id=%7B6b3ae454-088e-419c-a98f-f99f8b4227ec%7D.
