Mikaela Shiffrin, Ski World Cup, Mt. Bachelor, climate crisis, skiing, FIS, sustainability, early season
The Ski World Cup is officially back on the slopes! Following a thrilling opener at Sölden in Tyrol, Austria, Mikaela Shiffrin impressed fans with a fifth-place finish, leading the American team to shine at the first event of the 2024 FIS Ski World Cup. Although Shiffrin narrowly missed the top podium, she heads to Levi, Lapland, eyeing an extraordinary milestone—her 100th World Cup victory. Yet, the excitement is clouded by a recurring issue: climate change. With sparse snowfall in several regions, both athletes and fans are feeling the effects of a warming world, making this season all the more pivotal.
Just last year, Shiffrin took a stand by penning an open letter titled “Our Sport is Endangered,” urging FIS President Johan Eliasch to address sustainability more seriously. Shiffrin’s message, backed by numerous athletes, emphasized that current efforts fall short of protecting winter sports for future generations. As the season kicks off, the climate crisis looms large—but there’s a new development that hints at a breakthrough. In a significant twist, a new venue is stepping up, seemingly aligning with Shiffrin’s vision for sustainable skiing.
In an exciting announcement, Mt. Bachelor in Oregon has joined the race for the earliest ski season on the West Coast. The resort is prepping to open earlier than anticipated with an exclusive pre-opening weekend for season pass-holders from November 15-17, 2024. The Skyliner and Little Pine lifts will be operational, and Nordic pass-holders can enjoy the cross-country trails—a true reward for those eager to hit the slopes early.
John Merriman, Mt. Bachelor’s president and general manager, shared his enthusiasm: “I couldn’t be more excited to kick off the season with our passholders on Friday. We’re thrilled to open earlier than expected. It was a big push, and I’m so proud of everyone—we are ready to make this the best season yet.” With over 40 inches of snow already blanketing the mountain and more in the forecast, Mt. Bachelor is on track for its earliest opening since 1998. After the exclusive weekend, the resort will temporarily close before reopening from November 22-24 with discounted lift tickets, making it a season to remember for all winter enthusiasts.
As skiers and snowboarders gear up for an early start, this season symbolizes the unity of sport and sustainability. Shiffrin’s push for eco-conscious skiing is gaining momentum, as resorts like Mt. Bachelor show that climate adaptation and sustainable practices are not just possible but essential for the future of winter sports.
