Basic HTML Version
130
Escarpment Magaz ine Spr ing 2012
escarpment
spring 2012
AFTERSHOT
~NANCY GREENE RAINE
TOP PHOTO | CLAIRE WOODHOUSE
STORY & BOTTOM PHOTO | CLAY DOLAN
The first time
I met Nik Zoricic was in 2009 at the World Cup Ski
Cross on Cypress Mountain in West Vancouver. It was our first World
Cup Ski Cross and Nik, originally a Slalom skier, didn't have clothing
that was ideal for the sport. So, instead of wearing a baggy ski suit, Nik
opted for a tighter pair of jeans and a sweater. Then, in an effort to make
his outfit less air permeable, Nik wore his downhill suit underneath.
(top photo)
After getting approval by the officials, and much to the chagrin of the
Canadian coaches, Nik was ready to race. It was an unseasonably hot
day for February and course conditions deteriorated rapidly. Part way
through the qualifying round there was an hour-long hold on course. Nik
and I waited at the top and had a chance to chat. I knew of Nik’s exploits
in the Alpine world and was familiar with his father Bebe, a coaching
legend on the Escarpment. As we talked I couldn’t help but think, “Who
is this guy racing a World Cup in jeans, is he for real?”
Nik was for real all right. Although he didn’t qualify on that day due to
conditions, Nik went on to capture twoWorld Cup podiums, and finished
the 2011 season 6
th
in the World.
Tragically on March 10
th
2012, Nik Zoricic died from injuries sustained
in a crash during a World Cup race in Grindelwald Switzerland. Nik
was one of the best skiers ever from Ontario, and losing him has sent
shockwaves through the skiing community. To his family, friends, team-
mates, and fellowmembers at Craigleith Ski Club, we send our love and
condolences.
Zorro you are missed!