After a challenging start to the World Cup season in Solden, Cassidy Gray is refocusing and gearing up for the upcoming races, including Copper and two GS events at Tremblant, where she’ll compete in front of a home Canadian crowd.
“I feel like a lot of things are kind of falling into place for me right now,” Gray says. “GS is my foundation, but I’m also getting more comfortable and confident in speed. Last year, I realized I was more competitive than I thought I’d be in Super-G, and now I’m excited to keep building in both Super-G and downhill.”
Home Snow Advantage
The Tremblant races hold a special significance for Gray. “There’s just something so special about racing at home. I’ve only had the chance once, but the memories from that day will stay with me forever,” she says. With Copper and Tremblant approaching, she’s eager to harness the energy of a home crowd and take her skiing to the next level.
While the Olympics are on the horizon, Gray sees them as just another race — an opportunity rather than a source of pressure. “For athletes like me, who may feel like underdogs, less pressure can actually be an advantage,” she says.
A Family of Athletes
Gray comes from a deeply athletic and supportive family, where competition is about joy and passion. Her mom, a former varsity rower, and her dad, a university football player, instilled a love for sports in Cassidy and her siblings.
“Every single one of my siblings has played an important role in my journey. If you took any of them out of the equation, I wouldn’t be who I am,” Gray says. “Athleticism and love for competition run in our family, but the focus has always been on passion and enjoyment rather than pressure.”
Her mom has been especially involved, volunteering at events and creating a supportive environment without interfering with coaching. “She loves to watch us race, whether we finish first, last, or DNF. That support has been invaluable,” Gray notes.
Expanding Into Speed
Though GS remains her foundation, Gray is excited about expanding her repertoire in speed disciplines. “I didn’t expect to be this excited about speed, but I’ll be doing a lot more Super-G and downhill this season,” she says. “Last year in Cortina, I only had my third downhill ever. Now, I’m building confidence and realizing my GS skills transfer really well into speed. I feel capable of being a really fast skier, and I’m excited to see what it can lead to.”
Representing Canada
Competing for Canada is deeply meaningful for Gray, steeped in family tradition and patriotism. “I’ve grown up with maple leaves on hockey jerseys and gymnastics leotards. Representing Canada is surreal and special,” she says. Yet she also understands the importance of focus: “During races, I have to set that aside to do my job and celebrate once it’s all done.”
Balancing Pressure and Passion
Gray is candid about the mental challenges of high-level competition. She has faced mental health struggles and emphasizes balance: “When you care so much, it can mean everything to you, and that’s where it can become too much. I’ve worked to ensure my identity isn’t wrapped up solely in skiing and to build confidence even when it’s tough.”
Outside the sport, Gray channels her energy into a business venture with her family, giving her another creative outlet and keeping her grounded.
Advice to Young Athletes
Reflecting on her journey, Gray stresses the importance of general athleticism and confidence. “Being athletic across sports builds a foundation, but the biggest thing I’d tell young athletes is to build confidence early. Once it’s lost, it’s hard to regain, but starting young makes it second nature.”
Looking Ahead
Cassidy Gray heads into Copper and Tremblant ready to showcase her growth, determination, and expanding skill set. With GS as her foundation and newfound comfort in speed, plus the energy of a home crowd, she’s poised to make a mark this season.
“Everything feels like it’s coming together,” she says. “I’m ready to take it on.”
About the Author: Katie Twible
