Marco Odermatt Leads the Charge: Stifel Aspen Winternational Giant Slalom Preview and Viewing Guide

Patrick Kenney Stifel Palisades Tahoe Cup; GEPA pictures

Who is racing, when, and how to watch the Friday, March 1st men’s Stifel Aspen Winternational giant slalom

As the World Cup Giant Slalom (GS) season heats up, the anticipation for the first of two Stifel Aspen Winternational Giant Slalom on Friday, March 1st, is palpable. This race, a replacement for the canceled Sölden Austria event, marks the second consecutive Men’s World Cup GS in the United States after last week’s thrilling Stifel Palisades Tahoe Cup GS.

The State of the Season’s Title Pursuit:

In Palisades Tahoe, Swiss sensation Marco Odermatt continued to dominate with yet another victory, extending his unprecedented streak to seven 2024 season consecutive GS wins. While Odermatt seems unstoppable, the battle for the season’s GS title remains alive, with Croatian Filip Zubčić trailing, albeit by a significant margin. However, with only four races remaining, Odermatt’s victory seems inevitable, needing just 15 points in Friday’s race to seal the deal.

Top-ranked 2024 season Men’s GS Skiers

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Sixty-six athletes from 22 countries are entered to race in the Friday, March 1st Stifel Aspen Winternational GS

The State of the GS Nations Cup Standings:

Switzerland commands the GS Nations Cup standings with an impressive 1340 points, followed by Norway and Austria. Notably, the Stifel US Ski Team, led by River Radamus and helped by independent skier Patrick Kenney, stands in 8th place, showcasing their prowess on the international stage. Meanwhile, the Canadian team, led by Erik Read, holds 12th place, aiming to climb higher in the ranks.

Fifty-Two athletes from 18 countries have scored World Cup GS points this season.

Men’s GS Nations Cup standings

The Situation With North American Skiers:

River Radamus, following his breakthrough podium finish in Palisades Tahoe, leads the North American charge, currently ranking 9th for the season with 184 GS points. Tommy Ford, the lone North American in the race who has earned a GS victory, aims to regain his form after a challenging season but remains poised to secure his spot in the World Cup finals.

Among other North American contenders, Erik Read stands out as Canada’s top performer, determined to elevate his season with three regular-season races remaining. Additionally, independent skier Patrick Kenney and Stifel US Ski Team member George Steffey strive to make their mark in Aspen after securing their first World Cup points this season.

As the world’s best alpine skiers converge in Aspen, the stage is set for a thrilling display of athleticism and determination. With title pursuits, national pride, and personal milestones on the line, the Stifel Aspen Winternational Giant Slalom promises to deliver nail-biting excitement and unforgettable moments on the slopes.

North American men who earned World Cup GS points during the 2024 season.

North American men starting in the Stifel Palisades Tahoe Cup GS

• Bib 15, River Radamus, Stifel USST, Ski and Snowboard Club Vail, Rossignol, LOOK, Level Gloves
• Bib 24, Tommy Ford, Stifel USST, Mount Bachelor Sports Education Foundation, HEAD
• Bib 28, Erik Read, ACA, Banff Alpine Racers, University of Denver, Atomic, UVEX, Level GlovesAtomic, UVEX
• Bib 36, George Steffey, Stifel USST, Stratton Mountain School, Marker/Dalbello/Völkl, Level Gloves
• Bib 39, Isaiah Nelson, Stifel USST, Buck Hill Ski Team, Rossignol, LOOK, Level Gloves
• Bib 40, Brian McLaughlin, Stifel USST invitee, Dartmouth College, GMVS, Marker/Dalbello/Völkl, TOKO, SYNC
• Bib 41, Asher Jordan, ACA, Whistler Mountain Ski Club, Atomic, Level Gloves
• Bib 56, Patrick Kenney, Global Racing, University of New Hampshire, Burke Moutain Academy, Marker/Dalbello/Völkl, TOKO, SYNC

About Aspen

Aspen, Colorado, has a storied history in alpine racing, hosting 86 FIS Ski World Cup races since 1968. Situated in the Rocky Mountains, Aspen’s journey from a mining town named Ute City to a renowned ski destination is a testament to its resilience. Despite facing economic downturns, Aspen thrived in the mid-20th century with the development of Aspen Mountain into a premier ski resort, attracting visitors worldwide.

With its rich heritage and breathtaking natural beauty, Aspen has become synonymous with winter sports and cultural excellence. From its mining roots to its modern-day status as a hub for skiing and cultural events, Aspen continues to captivate visitors with its charm and allure.

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How and when to watch

The men’s first run starts at 12:00 p.m. Eastern Time and 9:00 a.m. on the West Coast. Subsequently, the second run will commence at 3:00 p.m. Eastern time and 12:00 p.m. Pacific time. Additionally, with a subscription, a full replay will be available after the race on O+.

In Canada, viewers can watch on CBC sports

First run Start list and daily program for Friday, March 1st, Stifel Aspen Winternational men’s giant slalom

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The daily program for Friday, March 1st, Stifel Aspen Winternational men’s giant slalom