Key Takeaways
- Reese Howden has become the winningest men’s ski cross racer in World Cup history with 19 career victories
- Howden broke a tie with Jean-Frédéric Chapuis of France, who previously held the record
- The Canadian won gold at an event in Arosa, Switzerland, to take sole possession of the record
- Howden credited his ability to handle the start portion of the races as a key factor in his success
- The next World Cup ski cross event will take place in Innichen, Italy, and will be live streamed on CBC Sports
Introduction to Reese Howden’s Achievement
Reese Howden has made history in the world of ski cross racing, becoming the winningest men’s athlete in World Cup history. The Canadian won gold at an event in Arosa, Switzerland, on Tuesday, earning his 19th career victory on the World Cup circuit. This win broke a tie with Jean-Frédéric Chapuis of France, who previously held the record. Howden’s achievement is a testament to his skill and dedication to the sport, and he has cemented his place as one of the greatest ski cross racers of all time.
The Road to Victory
Howden’s win in Arosa was not without its challenges. The 27-year-old admitted to feeling nervous during the competition, knowing that he had the opportunity to take sole possession of the record. However, he was able to focus on what he could control and push through his nerves to emerge victorious. Howden topped qualifying and led his big final race from start to finish, a feat he credited to his ability to handle the start portion of the races. He noted that many of his competitors were starting to figure out the start, but he was able to focus on his strengths and minimize mistakes.
Howden’s Strategy
Howden’s strategy was to focus on the back half of the start, where he could use his speed and agility to his advantage. He noted that the start was "tailored to his genetics" and that he enjoyed the fight and excitement of the start. This approach allowed him to stay calm and then explode on the back half of the start, giving him an edge over his competitors. Howden’s ability to adapt to the course and use his strengths to his advantage was a key factor in his success.
The Competition
The event in Arosa saw a strong field of competitors, with Johannes Aujesky of Austria taking silver and Sweden’s David Mobaerg claiming the bronze medal. Canada’s Jared Schmidt finished eighth overall, with a fourth-place finish in the small final. On the women’s side, Canadian Courtney Hoffos suffered a hard crash in the semifinals and was taken off the course on a toboggan. Despite her injury, Hoffos waved to the crowd as she was whisked off the course, showing her dedication and sportsmanship.
Looking Ahead
The next World Cup ski cross event will take place in Innichen, Italy, and will be live streamed on CBC Sports. The event will feature a strong field of competitors, and fans can tune in to watch the action unfold. Howden’s win in Arosa has set the stage for an exciting season, and fans will be eager to see if he can continue his winning streak. With his record-breaking win, Howden has cemented his place as one of the greatest ski cross racers of all time, and his future success will be closely watched by fans and competitors alike.
Conclusion
Reese Howden’s achievement is a testament to his hard work and dedication to the sport of ski cross racing. His ability to handle the start portion of the races and focus on his strengths was a key factor in his success. As the winningest men’s ski cross racer in World Cup history, Howden has set a new benchmark for athletes in the sport. His win in Arosa has made him a hero in the ski cross community, and his future success will be eagerly anticipated by fans around the world. With the next World Cup event just around the corner, fans can tune in to watch the action unfold and see if Howden can continue his winning streak.