Reece Howden made it back-to-back ski cross triumphs on the World Cup Tour in Sunday’s big final at Idre Fjäll, Sweden.
The 22-year-old from Cultus Lake, B.C., was back to his usual self, leading from start to end after choosing to sit back and charge late in Saturday’s victory.
“The draft wasn’t as big of an issue today so as I got into the start gate one of my coaches said, ‘100 per cent from top to bottom,'” the six-foot-plus Howden told Alpine Canada of his third victory in four races. “I skied as fast as I could today [and] it worked out. I’m so happy, this is unbelievable.
“I’ll keep trying my best. I’m super proud of these last few races, so I’ll try to carry it through the rest of the season, stay safe, stay injury-free, and keep it going.”
Howden’s Canadian teammate, Marielle Thompson reached the podium for a fifth time this campaign, placing third in the women’s race.
The Whistler, B.C., skier fought poor visibility as blowing snow made conditions tough on the lower part of the track.
“I’m a lot happier with how I skied today,” the 28-year-old Thompson stated. “I think I brought some good skiing to each heat and I’m happy to land on the podium.”
The Canadian squad will compete in Feldberg, Germany before returning to Idre Fjäll for the world championships in February.
Sunday’s other Canadian results were Jared Schmidt (33rd), Kris Mahler (36th), Brady Leman (40th), Chris Del Bosco (48th) and Carson Cook (53rd) on the men side, for women Courtney Hoffos (7th), Hannah Schmidt (14th), Tiana Gairns (15th) and Zoe Chore (16th).
