Canada's Ski Mountaineering Athletes Chase Olympic Qualification in Utah

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As anticipation builds for the upcoming Winter Olympics, Canadian ski mountaineering athletes are gearing up for a critical competition in Solitude, Utah. This World Cup event is not just another race; it represents a make-or-break opportunity for Canada to secure the final two quota spots for the Milano Cortina 2026 Games.

The stakes are exceptionally high as Canada faces off against the United States in a thrilling mixed relay format. Each nation will field three teams, but all eyes will be on the top-ranked pair of Emma Cook-Clarke and Aaron Robson, whose performances over the past year have brought them tantalizingly close to their Olympic dreams.

The challenge of ski mountaineering

Ski mountaineering, an intense sport that merges uphill climbing with downhill skiing, will debut at the Olympics in 2026. Unlike traditional skiing, athletes use skins attached to their skis, enabling them to ascend steep slopes without chairlift assistance. This distinctive approach requires both physical endurance and technical skill, as athletes must rapidly transition between climbing and skiing across varied terrains.

Cook-Clarke and Robson’s journey

The upcoming mixed relay race marks a significant milestone for Cook-Clarke, 32, and Robson, 39. For Cook-Clarke, the opportunity to represent Canada at the Olympics is a dream realized. “It’s surreal to think about becoming an Olympian for Canada. Achieving that would mean everything to me,” she shared, reflecting on the dedication that has led her to this pivotal moment.

Robson shares this sentiment, having nurtured aspirations of Olympic competition since childhood. After enduring a series of injuries during his track career, he nearly lost hope. However, his introduction to ski mountaineering rekindled that dream. “It felt like a reconnection to something I’ve wanted for so long,” he remarked, illustrating how his journey has come full circle.

Implications for the sport in Canada

The mixed relay race holds particular significance, as Canada maintains a precarious one-point lead over the U.S. in the continental standings. The outcome will be decisive; the top-ranked relay team from each continent will earn a men’s and women’s quota spot at the Olympics. This has implications not only for Cook-Clarke and Robson but also for the future of ski mountaineering in Canada.

Funding and support for athletes

Both athletes understand that their performance could have lasting effects on the sport’s development in Canada. A successful qualification would likely result in increased funding and resources for the national ski mountaineering program, including greater access to the country’s Athlete Assistance Program, commonly referred to as carding. “Having carding status has been invaluable,” Robson noted, explaining how it provides crucial financial support that allows athletes to focus fully on their training and competition schedules.

Cook-Clarke and Robson have made significant personal and financial sacrifices to pursue their Olympic aspirations. Cook-Clarke previously worked as a professional firefighter, a demanding job she left to commit to ski mountaineering full-time. “It was a hard decision, but I knew I had to seize this unique opportunity,” she expressed, highlighting the challenges athletes face in balancing ambitions with careers.

Robson transitioned from teaching math to a curriculum design role, allowing him the flexibility to train while spending quality time with his family. “This job lets me pursue my passion while being present for my wife and daughter,” he explained, showcasing the delicate balance many athletes must strike.

Preparing for the final race

As the mixed relay event nears, Cook-Clarke is determined to remain focused and composed. “Our goal is to bring out the best in ourselves and enjoy the experience,” she stated, emphasizing the importance of staying relaxed despite the pressure. She believes that while stress can be beneficial, excessive pressure might hinder their performance.