Marker-Volkl signs Laurenne Ross, Julia Ford to roster
Marker-Volkl announced Monday two new members to its World Cup racing team: Laurenne Ross and Julia Ford, who both switched over from Atomic.
Ross is ranked among the best in the world in super G and downhill. She earned her first World Cup podium this past season, a second in the downhill at Garmisch-Partenkirchen. Ross also won the 2013 U.S. National Championship Super G at Squaw Valley, Calif.
“I am thrilled to be joining the Marker-Volkl team. I am already skiing comfortably and fast on the equipment and believe that it complements my skiing style perfectly,” said Ross. “The Marker-Völkl family has been so welcoming and positive, I know this is the right move for me as I’m looking forward to the Olympics and World Cup season this year.”
Julia Ford, of Plymouth, N.H., joins Ross in switching to Marker-Volkl equipment. The 23-year-old is the 2012 Overall Nor-Am Champion and scored her first FIS World Cup points last season at Bad-Kleinkircheim, AUT.
Katharine Irwin, 19, of Vail, Colo., rounds out the women’s team. Irwin earned her first Nor-Am victory last season in the super G at Panorama.
“We’re really excited that Laurenne and Julia want to be part of the Marker-Volkl team. We’ve worked hard on our new race skis and bindings, and it is rewarding that they have recognized that commitment,” said Mike Noonan, president of Marker Volkl USA. “We are certainly looking forward to the new World Cup season and the 2014 Winter Olympics.”