Calgary, AB. Deer Valley’s Champion Run once again delivered high drama and thrilling performances as the world’s best mogul skiers took on difficult course conditions in the Dual Moguls competition at the second FIS World Cup stop of the weekend. Among the highlights was Mikael Kingsbury’s inspiring bounce-back performance, battling back from disappointment in the Moguls event two days earlier to claim a silver medal in Dual Moguls.
Kingsbury, the most decorated mogul skier in history, found himself in unfamiliar territory after placing 16th in the Moguls event—an uncharacteristic finish that left him hungry for redemption. Facing intense competition, including his top rival and friend, Ikuma Horishima of Japan, Kingsbury brought his signature focus and determination to the Dual Moguls bracket.
The two titans squared off in the men’s big final, reigniting their friendly rivalry on the world’s biggest stage. Kingsbury executed clean, high-quality skiing throughout the rounds, but Horishima’s gutsy 1440 aerial maneuver proved too much to beat. Kingsbury’s silver marked a statement performance in the face of adversity, reminding everyone why he’s considered one of the greatest athletes in the sport.
Horishima continued his stellar season, claiming back-to-back victories in Moguls and Dual Moguls, cementing himself as the strongest competitor to Kingsbury this season. Kazakhstan’s Pavel Kolmakov rounded out the men’s podium in third, delivering another solid performance in a highly competitive field.
On the women’s side, Jaelin Kauf (USA) was the undisputed female star of the weekend, taking victories in both the Moguls and Dual Moguls events. Kauf, on her 100th World Cup start, edged out Olympic champion Perrine Laffont (FRA) in the Dual Moguls final to claim gold. Olivia Giaccio (USA) completed the women’s podium in third place.
Strong Showing from Team Canada
Kingsbury wasn’t the only Canadian to deliver a standout performance at Deer Valley. Elliot Vaillancourt achieved his best result of the season, finishing 7th after a hard-fought semi-final matchup against Horishima. Vaillancourt’s composed skiing and technical precision throughout the competition underline his growing presence on the World Cup circuit.
On the women’s side, Maïa Schwinghammer, fresh off a Moguls medal earlier in the week, was on track for another podium in Dual Moguls. Unfortunately, a mistake on the landing of her top air in the semi-final round dashed her chances. Despite the setback, she finished 8th and walked away in good health, ready to build on her momentum.
Laurianne Desmarais-Gilbert also put in a strong performance, advancing to the round of 16 and finishing 15th overall. Jessie Linton (20th) and Ashley Koehler (25th) rounded out the Canadian women’s results.
In the men’s event, Julien Viel made the round of 16 and finished 13th, showcasing consistency in the tough field. Gabriel Dufresne (21st), Joey Dubuc (24th), Sam Goodison (25th), and Sam Cordell (27th) all gained valuable experience on the Champion Run’s demanding terrain.
A Look Ahead
With Deer Valley 2025 behind them, Team Canada moves forward with renewed confidence and momentum. Kingsbury’s silver, Schwinghammer’s continued promise, and Vaillancourt’s breakthrough highlight the depth and determination of Canada’s Freestyle team.
Stay tuned as the World Cup season continues, and don’t miss your chance to cheer on Team Canada as they take on the world’s best on the road to the World Championships later in March.
