The Stifel Copper Cup returned to Colorado’s majestic Rockies this season, delivering high-stakes alpine racing while spotlighting two local prodigies: Olympic champion Mikaela Shiffrin and U.S. Ski Team standout River Radamus. The event, held at Copper Mountain, blended elite competition with heartfelt community celebration, drawing crowds eager to cheer on athletes who trace their roots to the state’s storied ski heritage.
For Shiffrin, a Vail Valley native from Edwards, the venue represents a full-circle moment. The most victorious alpine skier in World Cup history—with multiple global titles and Olympic hardware—Shiffrin honed her early skills on these very slopes. Her participation underscored a rare homecoming, where technical precision met emotional resonance amid familiar peaks.
Joining her was fellow Edwards resident River Radamus, a dynamic force in giant slalom and super-G events. The charismatic U.S. Ski Team member, recognized for his aggressive style and breakout World Cup results, embodied the next wave of American talent. Fans, many of whom watched his junior races, reveled in his return to Copper Mountain, where his journey from local phenom to international contender continues to inspire.
As a fixture on the U.S. Alpine Ski Team schedule, the Stifel Copper Cup has evolved into a premier early-season showcase. Beyond the races, the weekend featured athlete interactions, open training viewing, and family-oriented activities, transforming the resort into a vibrant hub of winter sports enthusiasm.
The event also highlighted the impactful alliance between title sponsor Stifel Financial Corp. and U.S. Ski & Snowboard. This partnership bolsters youth initiatives, coaching resources, and developmental pathways, ensuring aspiring racers—motivated by icons like Shiffrin and Radamus—receive the support to reach elite levels.
Spectators experienced the electric fusion of roaring crowds, pristine corduroy groomers, and gravity-defying turns against a stunning alpine panorama. The Cup transcended mere competition, affirming Colorado’s role as a cradle of skiing excellence and the enduring connection between champions and their mountain origins.
As the season progresses, the Stifel Copper Cup reinforces the sport’s core values: speed, resilience, and community. For enthusiasts of all ages, it offered an indelible reminder that greatness often begins on hometown snow.
