UPDATE: The U.S. Ski Team is gearing up for the highly anticipated Stifel Copper Cup, which kicks off tomorrow at Copper Mountain, with the first race, a super-G, starting at 11 a.m. on December 14, 2023. This four-day event promises thrilling competition, featuring men’s giant slalom on Friday and women’s giant slalom and slalom races on Saturday and Sunday, respectively.
During a press conference held last night, several team members shared their insights and expectations ahead of the event. Highlighting the importance of the upcoming races, Bryce Bennett, a 6-foot-7 downhill specialist, emphasized the significance of strong leadership within the team, particularly with the return of coach Johno McBride. “Our entire team kind of fell apart after the Sun Valley World Cup Finals. Johno’s real strength is leadership,” Bennett stated, reflecting on the need for stability and motivation as the team prepares for the competition.
Fans can look forward to witnessing Jared Goldberg, a two-time Olympian, who is aiming to build on last year’s remarkable second-place finish in super-G. “I’m trying to bring that mentality this year to just go for it hard every race,” Goldberg remarked, indicating his determination to perform at his best.
Olympic silver medalist Ryan Cochran-Siegle also expressed his readiness for the challenge. “Super-G seems like I have days where I’m a little bit off the mark… but I feel like I’m making good movements when I’m skiing,” he said, noting the unpredictable nature of race day.
Emerging star River Radamus, who finished 11th and 12th in the GS standings in the last two World Cup campaigns, shared his enthusiasm about inspiring the next generation of skiers. “It’s important to grow the fan base of our sport and inspire the next generation,” Radamus said, recalling his own childhood experiences watching elite skiers.
As excitement builds, Bridger Gile, who recently scored his first World Cup points, has his sights set on Olympic qualification. “If I get those good results — those top-15s, top-10s — then hopefully there’s a chance to make the Olympic team,” Gile stated, encapsulating the dreams of many athletes participating this weekend.
With hometown pride and years of training at Copper, former SSCV athlete Kyle Negomir expressed his excitement for the World Cup event. “It’s super special to be able to make that jump to having a World Cup here in a place that we’re all so comfortable,” he noted, highlighting the personal connection many athletes have to this venue.
Fans and spectators can look forward to a weekend filled with thrilling races and the chance to support their favorite athletes. The Stifel Copper Cup not only marks a significant event in the Alpine skiing calendar but also serves as a platform for the U.S. Ski Team to showcase their talent on home soil.
Stay tuned for live updates as the races unfold, with all eyes on the slopes of Copper Mountain.
