Featured Image: Manuel Osborne-Paradis (CAN) racing downhill in Val Gardena/Gröden, Italy. Photo: GEPA pictures/ Wolfgang Grebien

One of the famous Canadian Cowboys, Manuel (Manny) Osborne-Paradis, joins the American Downhiller Podcast for a hilarious and educational episode that breaks down this week’s World Cup downhill in Val Gardena/Gröden, Italy. Manny won on the Saslong course in 2009 by crushing the top flats with a secret “Canadian Drift” slide technique, which he explains in depth in the podcast. He also talks about what it feels like to fly 89 meters (approx. 292 feet) in the air over the Camels, surviving the jump and crashing. 

This episode of the American Downhiller Podcast has valuable nuggets of wisdom for racers and coaches. Also, it has hilarious stories of what it is like on the World Cup circuit as a rookie and beyond. Here are a few of the highlights in the 50-minute episode that will make you laugh and take notes:

– What finding the “bottom of the ski” means, according to Manny and Daron Rahlves

– The Teamwork of Canadian and USA athletes at Val Gardena/Gröden, which has paid off for decades

– Benefits of warming up on Slalom skis for the entire Speed season – or not

– Why you better be good at “left-footed” turns on the World Cup downhill circuit

– Confidence is what finally gives racers that breakthrough race that changes everything

– How a focused “pipeline” for development works

– How grinding it out in the shadows before you make it to the bright light is key

Athletes, coaches, parents, and ski racing fans must listen to this podcast because it will give you an inside look at a downhill that is considered the most fun on the circuit. A downhill where North American athletes have found considerable success. This includes 2008 when they put seven racers in the top 10! Due to the speed event cancellations in Switzerland and the United States, this will be the first speed race of the season, which should help the North Americans. There are two Downhills and a super-G scheduled for Val Gardena/Gröden!

How to Listen and Watch: