Valerie Grenier’s remarkable performance at the Mont-Tremblant World Cup elevated her bronze medal win in the women’s giant slalom to a priceless achievement. The Canadian skier surged two places in the second run, clocking a total time of 2:17.18 to secure third place. Growing up skiing at Mont-Tremblant, the 29-year-old St-Isidore native expressed her elation at the outcome, trailing only a second behind gold medalist Alice Robinson from New Zealand.
Grenier, thrilled by her podium finish, described it as a dream come true and a significant milestone in her career. Her coach, Laurent Praz, emphasized the team effort and the value of achieving a podium spot at a home event like Mont-Tremblant compared to races in Europe.
This victory marked Grenier’s first World Cup podium since her third-place finish in the downhill event in Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy, in January 2024. Following a lengthy recovery from a serious leg and knee injury in 2024, she expressed immense gratitude for the support that propelled her back to the podium.
Alice Robinson, claiming back-to-back victories, secured first place ahead of Zrinka Ljutic of Croatia and led an international top five lineup. The tough conditions posed a challenge for skiers, with notable racers like Mikaela Shiffrin finishing in a lower position than expected.
Grenier led the Canadian contingent into the second run, with Britt Richardson and Cassidy Gray also showcasing their skills on the challenging course. Despite some skiers struggling to complete the race due to the demanding conditions, excitement builds for the upcoming second giant slalom event on Sunday.
Live coverage of the event can be watched on CBCSports.ca and CBC Gem, offering viewers the chance to witness the thrilling competition unfold.