Swiss skiing sensation Marco Odermatt claimed victory in the World Cup super-G season opener at Copper Mountain on Thanksgiving, with Aleksander Aamodt Kilde returning after a long absence. Odermatt, who also triumphed in the giant slalom in Soelden last month, showcased his dominance as he strives for success at the upcoming Milan Cortina Olympic Games. The Colorado event marked Odermatt’s stellar performance, where he edged out Vincent Kriechmayr by a mere 0.08 seconds to secure first place, thwarting Austria’s bid for a clean sweep.
Kilde, the defending overall champion, made a heartfelt comeback after being sidelined for nearly two years due to injuries sustained in a harrowing crash back in January 2024. His return to competition left U.S. star Mikaela Shiffrin emotional, with Kilde finishing 24th and receiving warm embraces at the finish line. Despite enduring surgeries and lingering physical challenges, Kilde’s resilience shone through on a familiar course that has been a training ground for top ski teams.
The Canadian contingent also took to the slopes, with Jack Crawford leading the pack in 16th place, followed by his compatriots in a solid display of competitive spirit. The event at Copper Mountain marked the beginning of a series of super-G races in a season punctuated by the upcoming Winter Olympics. Odermatt’s victory notched his 47th World Cup win and 16th in super-G, solidifying his position among the greats in the sport.
As the season progresses, fans can catch the thrilling action live on CBCSports.ca and CBC Gem, with upcoming races at Beaver Creek in the United States. Odermatt’s remarkable podium finish ties him with ski legends on the all-time super-G list, setting the stage for an exciting season ahead.