The final races of the 2024-25 FIS World Cup ski cross season were held in IdreFjall Sweden March 29 and 30.
It turned out to be a banner weekend for Reece Howden, from Cultus Lake, winning his sixth and seventh gold medal and earning enough points to capture his third Crystal Globe. He also helped Canada win its fourth consecutive Nations Cup.
In the final race of the season, the Crystal Globe is given to the World Cup season point leader. After Howden's win on March 30, he was sitting in first place by 33 points. It came down to the big final as Howden lined up next to his closest competitor, Italy’s Simone Deromedis.
After racing from the front in his first three heats, Howden had to battle teammate Kris Mahler (Canmore, Alta.) who had strong starts all day. Mahler had the lead out of the gate with Howden right on his heels until the dragon's back feature nearing the finish line. Reece moved over and managed to pass Mahler into first position with Youri Kergomar-Duplessis (France) and Deromedis also passing Kris.
Reece celebrated crossing the finish in the one spot, Duplessis in second and Deromedis in third. This was Howden’s fourth win in his last five races, his 18th career WC win and his third Crystal Globe in five years to go along with 2021 and 2023.
“My goal has been three Globes and to do it in five years is amazing,” said Howden. “There are a lot of ups and downs in this sport and having confidence is key. As I’ve matured, I know what I’m capable of and I’m able to move on from the bad days.
“There was no walking away with the Globe this season. It was a mental and physical battle the last few weeks of the season with the standings so tight and going through all the rounds keeping an eye on the other guys. It was amazing to be in the final with Kris! He skied so well and it helped me relax a little having him there.”
Canada has continued to stake its claim as the world leader in SX capturing the Nations Cup, awarded to the country with the most WC points, for the fourth year in a row, eighth time in the last ten seasons.
