UPDATE: The U.S. Alpine Ski Team is gearing up for the highly anticipated Stifel Copper Cup, set to kick off tomorrow, October 26, 2023, at 11 a.m. in Copper Mountain. The four-day event will feature thrilling super-G races, followed by giant slalom competitions for both men and women throughout the weekend.
Members of the U.S. Ski Team spoke passionately during a press conference, sharing insights and strategies ahead of this crucial early-season challenge. The athletes are not only competing for podium finishes but also aiming to inspire the next generation of skiers watching from the stands.
Bryce Bennett, a towering 6-foot-7-inch downhill specialist, emphasized the importance of leadership in his team’s dynamics. Reflecting on the return of coach Johno McBride, Bennett stated, “Our entire team kind of fell apart after the Sun Valley World Cup Finals. Johno’s real strength is leadership… he lets you take control of your career, and I really do appreciate that.”
Another standout, Ryan Cochran-Siegle, a silver medalist from the 2022 Olympics, shared his evolving focus: “I feel I’ve transitioned more into the downhill discipline… Right now, I’m making good movements and have confidence.” As he prepares for the super-G, Cochran-Siegle highlighted the unique challenges of the Copper Mountain course, noting, “It’s hard to have expectations… the top section is also unique and new.”
Rising star River Radamus expressed the thrill of competing at home, recalling his childhood memories of watching world-class athletes. “It’s important to grow the fan base of our sport and inspire the next generation… There are plenty of kids out there that will be filling those shoes for us out in the crowd tomorrow,” he said.
With the Olympic year approaching, athletes like Bridger Gile and Kyle Negomir are keenly aware of the stakes. Gile aims to secure top finishes in World Cups to boost his Olympic chances, while Negomir reflected on the significance of racing at a venue familiar to them. “It’s super special to have a World Cup here in a place that we’re all so comfortable,” he noted.
As the competition unfolds, fans can expect exhilarating performances from the U.S. Ski Team, who are under immense pressure to deliver results on home turf. The excitement builds as athletes prepare to take to the slopes, aiming not just for medals, but to ignite passion in the sport among young spectators.
Stay tuned for updates as the Stifel Copper Cup gets underway and the U.S. Ski Team strives for excellence in Copper Mountain!
