Freddy Carrick-Smith on his World Cup debut in Sölden
October 26 – At 18 years old, Freddy Carrick-Smith made his World Cup debut in Sunday’s giant slalom in Sölden, becoming the youngest British man in 44 years to start a World Cup GS.
How it went
In tricky conditions on the first run, and starting with bib 67, Carrick-Smith navigated course setter Paul Epstein’s (BEL) winding set and found the finish.
He placed 54th out of 61 men who completed the first run, 4.17 seconds behind first-run leader and eventual race winner Marco Odermatt (SUI). Despite being some distance from the top, Freddy was only 1.72 seconds behind 30th-place Eirik Hystad Solberg (NOR) — that close to qualifying for the second run.
What he had to say
“It was pretty cloudy and pretty bumpy down the steep,” he said of his debut. “Coming onto the flat, you couldn’t see much, but I’m pleased with what I did.”
He added, “I was hoping for a better result, but it’s my first World Cup, and I’m just happy to have made it down to the finish.”
Feeling the love
There was strong support for the young Brit, including from his brothers and training partner Molly Butler.
“I definitely felt the support of so many GB guys — the army team had a huge British flag, and everyone could hear Molly,” he said. “It really gave me a boost.”
The season ahead
He also spoke about his plans for the season: “I think most of the World Cups are better — especially the ones in the U.S., which seem to hold up a lot better — so hopefully the conditions stay nice in the next one (Copper Mountain).”
He added, “Absolutely, bring on Copper and Beaver Creek. I want to start as many as possible and get to know the tracks.”
Luca’s debut
His older brother, Luca (20), is expected to make his World Cup debut in Levi next month as he aims to join Dave Ryding, Billy Major, and Laurie Taylor racing as close to a full World Cup program as possible — just like his younger brother.
Final thoughts
On a day marked by tough weather and uncertainty, one thing was clear: Freddy Carrick-Smith showed the talent, composure, and confidence of a racer to watch.
About the Author: Matt Garcka
