2023 Slopestyle/Big Air Jr World Championship at Cardrona, New Zealand
The excitement is palpable as the world’s most promising young freestyle skiers gather for the 2023 Slopestyle/Big Air Jr World Championship. Set against the stunning backdrop of Cardrona Alpine Resort in New Zealand, this event promises a display of talent and dedication. With a rich history dating back to 2003, the FIS Freestyle Junior World Ski Championships have provided a platform for athletes between the ages of fourteen and nineteen to showcase their skills on an international stage. Over the history of the FIS Jr World Championship Canada has secured 35 total medals across Slopestyle, Big Air, Halfpipe, Aerials and Moguls including 16 Gold, 9 Silver and 10 Bronze. The 35 total medals have Canada ranked 3rd of all time in FIS JR World Championship medals.
Event Schedule: The 2023 FIS Jr World Championship kicks off on Sunday, August 27th, with the Slopestyle discipline qualifications. The young skiers will have their first chance to demonstrate their prowess on this exclusive world stage using the intricate course designed to test their technical skills and creativity. On Tuesday, August 29th the top 12 Male and top 10 Female athletes from the qualification rounds will push their limits to impress the judges looking to secure a place on the podium and possibly be named World Junior Champion.
The action switches gears on Friday, September 1st, to the Big Air discipline qualifications concluding which culminate on Sunday, September 3rd, with the top 12 Male and top 10 Female athletes competing in the final rounds for the medals.
Canadian Contenders: Canada proudly sends a team of exceptional athletes to this prestigious event. Among them are Rémi Asselin (QC), Charlie Beatty (ON), Malcolm Farris (NS), Henri Joyal (QC), Matthew Lepine (ON), and Jacob Durepos (ON). These young talents have honed their skills through dedicated training at various locations, including Whistler and Blackcomb Mountains and Maximise in St Agathe.
Geoff Lovelace, the Assistant Coach of the Canadian NextGen Slopestyle/Big Air Team and Head Coach of the 2023 FIS Jr World Championship Slopestyle/Big Air Team, expresses his pride in the team’s selection and their hard work. He remarks, “To be selected to represent Canada at this event is a prestigious athletic achievement, and I’m honored to be a part of their journey. I am excited to see the 2023 Canadian Jr. World Championship Team showcase what they have been figuring out in training! Wish us luck!”
Cardrona Alpine Resort: The championship unfolds against the backdrop of the picturesque Cardrona Alpine Resort. Nestled in New Zealand’s South Island, this resort boasts elevations ranging from 1,260m to 1,860m, providing the ideal terrain for freestyle skiing events. The resort, founded by local visionaries John and Mary Lee, opened its doors in 1980 and has since become a haven for skiers and snowboarders seeking world-class slopes and breathtaking panoramas.
Experience the Action: For those unable to attend in person, the event can be followed live through the official website: FIS Freestyle Junior World Ski Championship. The website will provide updates, results, and a window into the exhilarating performances taking place at Cardrona.
As the anticipation builds, the world awaits the crowning of the next generation of freestyle skiing champions at the 2023 Slopestyle/Big Air Jr World Championship in Cardrona, New Zealand.
