Giaccio, Macuga go 2-3; Five in the Top 10 in Alpe d'Huez
The Stifel U.S. Freestyle Ski Team women’s moguls athletes once again showed their speed and strength in today’s dual moguls event, landing Olivia Giaccio and Alli Macuga on the podium in second and third, each earning new personal bests.
It was another bluebird day in Alpe d’Huez, France, and emotions were high across the board. Olivia Giaccio put on yet another stunning performance today to put herself in the big final against World Cup leader Anthony Jakara. They were neck and neck throughout the entire run, but Jakara was just a bit quicker, landing Giaccio in second place. Although it wasn’t a win, this second place was still incredibly meaningful to Olivia as it was her best career finish in a dual moguls event, improving upon her previous top finish in third last year in Almaty. This podium was particularly special because Giaccio’s parents were there to witness it in person.
Just behind Giaccio was Alli Macuga, who finished in third place, capturing her first career World Cup podium. Macuga smiled ear to ear from the moment she finished her last run till she stepped off the podium.
“I can nearest put into words how much I’ve worked for this; ever since I knew mogul skiing was a thing, I’ve looked forward to the day I would get my first podium,” said Macuga. “I am beyond happy with my performance and such fun duals today! I am so grateful for my family always cheering me on and pushing me to get there and my coaches for guiding me; finally, my teammates/best friends cheered me on and pushed me to do my best!”
Just off the stacked podium was Tess Johnson who finished in fourth, followed by Elizabeth Lemley in fifth and Hannah Soar in sixth. Jaelin Kauf unfortunately DNFd during her 1/16 final run, finishing in 27th.
Nick Page led the pack for the U.S. men, finishing in 13th, along with Dylan Marcellini in 15th, Dylan Walczyk in 22nd and Cole McDonald in 24th.
The team is headed to Bakuriani, Georgia, for another set of moguls and dual moguls events Dec. 22-23.