World Cup Skiing Aspen - An In-Depth History and Overview
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As one of the most legendary events in alpine sports, the World Cup Skiing Aspen attracts many of the best alpine racers from around the globe. But what exactly makes this historical skiing competition so iconic?
The history of the World Cup Skiing Aspen, which is under the umbrella of the F.I.S. Alpine Ski World Cup, took root in 1967. Ever since, it has been a staple for Colorado’s Aspen Snowmass resort. The event features some of the most technical and challenging downhill races on Earth, as well as action-packed festivals, shows, and community events throughout the weekend.
With the town of Aspen gearing up for this year’s competition, we want to provide you with a bit of history on the World Cup and why skiing in Aspen is such a must for any winter sports enthusiast.
Aspen’s World Cup Legacy
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When people think of alpine skiing here in the States, they often think of Aspen.
As an early silver mining town, it became a hub for wealth-seekers in the West. By the late 19th century, with the rise of commercial skiing, these locals realized that Aspen could be a prime resort location.
In 1967, it became the first North American resort to host the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup.
Since then, Aspen Mountain and Snowmass have been regular fixtures in the World Cup circuit.
Though the skiing event has had its share of unforgettable moments, ask any long-time Aspenite, and they’ll tell you about Bill Johnson. In 1984, this American skier from Van Nuys, CA, shocked the world when he clinched the World Cup Skiing Aspen title in the downhill race.
Modern Victories
Recently, 25-year-old Swiss racer Marco Odermat became the first skier to win five Super-Gs in a single season, surpassing some of history’s most iconic skiing legends, such as Hermann Maier and Aksel Lund Svindal, who were four-time winners.
Of course, Aspen's World Cup legacy isn't solely about victories but also about the camaraderie and shared passion for skiing that permeates the town during these events.
How does the Skiing World Cup Aspen work?
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Each year, Aspen Mountain welcomes international skiers from across the globe to compete in an exciting mix of downhill and slalom races.
The downhill races are arguably one of the most popular alpine skiing events, as it doesn’t get any faster than this. Skiers can easily get up to 80 mph on these races, making it a truly thrilling sight to see. In fact, Johan Clarey broke the speed record back in 2013 at the downhill in Wengen, Switzerland, clocking in at just over 100 mph.
The slalom events, on the other hand, are far more technical, forcing skiers to make multiple rapid turns over the course of a short run. It’s where skis truly start to do the talking.
From the Sidelines
As a spectator, you get to enjoy all of the excitement from the sidelines, and what more beautiful place to enjoy a competition than adjacent to Aspen’s peaks? Even beyond the races themselves, Aspen hosts a range of events and VIP experiences, such as access to the famous Wagner Lounge and chef-inspired lunches between runs.
This coming year, the event will take place on the weekend of March 1, similar to most years.
To get the most up-to-date information on the event dates and to plan your trip, get in contact with us here at Aspen Luxury Concierge, your trusted source for high-touch services in the Roaring Fork Valley.
Athletes and Competitors
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With so many top-tier athletes competing in this internationally-renowned competition, there are a lot of people to look out for.
One of our favorite contenders for this year is Norway’s Aleksander Aamodt Kilde.
With an impressive 17-victory record (eight in super-G and nine in downhill), Kilde might just be the most accomplished World Cup circuit speed skier. He previously clinched the overall title in 2020 and is poised for a potential clean sweep of the upcoming Aspen races.
Another skier we recommend keeping an eye on is seven-time world ski championship winner and two-time Olympic gold medalist Mikaela Shiffrin.
While her career has been nothing short of legendary, her 2019 season propelled her to stardom, sweeping the mountain and shattering records every weekend.
USA Today, ESPN, and The Washington Post called Shiffrin the "world's most dominant athlete,” placing her in the ranks with athletes like Lebron James and Serena Williams.
The Challenging Terrain
Aspen’s terrain is not for the faint of heart. Roughly half the terrain on Aspen Mountain alone is classified as “difficult,” making it a prime destination for top-tier skiers who want a challenge.
It has become a go-to stop for competitive skiers, offering classic downhill terrain with technical turns and excellent gliding.
The downhill course starts off on Ruthie’s Run at about 10,604 feet, providing relatively flat terrain and a few man-made jumps, perfect for gliding. However, once skiers drop into the course’s ultra-steep and sudden descent, known as ‘Aztec,’ they can get up to speeds of 80 miles per hour before turning fast into Spring Pitch.
There’s no better downhill terrain in Aspen to experience incredible power and speed.
Tickets for World Cup Skiing Aspen
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If you’re seriously considering a trip to Aspen for this year’s event, the first thing on your to-do list should be securing tickets, and there’s no better way to do so than through Aspen Luxury Concierge.
We offer insider access and a deep-rooted local connection to the event planners, making sure you get the best vantage point to enjoy each race with VIP treatment along the way. Your time is valuable, so why spend it trying to search for tickets, accommodations, and transportation online when our team can do it all for you?
You deserve a memorable, hassle-free experience during the World Cup Skiing Aspen, so allow us to take care of every aspect of your visit.
Contact us today to learn more.
The Aspen Experience
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Aspen’s atmosphere during the event is nothing short of electric. The ski resorts are in full swing, many of the town’s best restaurants and bars host buzzy events, and skiers get the chance to mingle and celebrate with their favorite athletes.
The active fan engagement might be the true aspect that sets the World Cup Skiing Aspen apart from other major mountain events. With an array of parties and concerts in town, it’s so much more than a passive viewing experience.
Join the Party!
Event organizers for the Aspen World Cup know how important this race is to fans, which is why you’ll find a variety of fan-oriented activities. Score an autograph from your favorite skier or explore interactive exhibits put together by some of the top snow sports brands.
If you’re up for it, you can even test your skills on the mountain with dedicated public slopes.
Conclusion
Aspen has cemented its place as an iconic World Cup skiing circuit destination, hosting some of the most thrilling and challenging alpine races for over half a century.
Its challenging terrain, legendary slopes, and uniquely charming ambiance have made it a top destination among elite athletes and adventurous travelers alike.
From its pioneering role as the first North American resort to host the FIS Alpine Ski World Cup to its enduring legacy that stands the test of time today, there is no better place in the country to enjoy the boundlessness of alpine skiing.
Be part of the remarkable legacy and experience the thrill of the World Cup Skiing Aspen with Aspen Luxury Concierge. Our goal is to make sure you have an unforgettable Aspen winter experience, whether you need help securing tickets to exclusive events, looking for the best accommodations in town, or drafting up a detailed itinerary for your visit.
Let ALC take care of the details so you can focus on savoring the magic of Aspen and its world-class skiing - Contact us today!
BY: RACHEL NAIDUS
Rachel is the Principal & Founder of Aspen Luxury Concierge. For over a decade, she has cut her teeth in the luxury hospitality services business. Since 2019, she has led ALC’s premier staff in creating luxury, effortless experiences for its clients. With her ever growing network of partners, vendors, and clientele, Rachel leads the pack in providing expert services to Aspen luxury travelers and locals.