World Championships medallist Allison Forsyth (Calgary, AB), who had been rehabbing a knee injury sustained during a 2006 Olympic Winter Games training run, announced her retirement today from Canada’s alpine ski team.
A two-time Olympian, Forsyth’s career highlights include five World Cup podium results and a bronze medal in the giant slalom at the 2003 FIS World Alpine Ski Championships in St. Moritz, SUI.
Forsyth, 29, is a leader in Canadian ski racing and one of the longest serving members of Canada’s alpine ski team, having been on the team since 1996.
“Of course I am sad and disappointed that this is the result after a two year effort to return to competition. That being said, I am confident that we did everything possible medically and otherwise to get me back. I can retire with a clear conscience,” said Forsyth.
“I always believed strongly in my goals but recently it just became obvious that my goals and my reality were too far apart. I am excited to set goals and pursue them in other areas of my life now,” said Forsyth, who is an eight-time Canadian champion in three different disciplines.
Forsyth suffered a severe left knee injury including a torn ACL during the second downhill training run Feb. 13th, 2006 at the Olympic Winter Games in Turin, ITA, exactly three years to the day of her podium result at the World Championships. Forsyth would return to compete in a FIS race in La Parva, CHI prior to the 2007/08 season but did not compete in a World Cup race in the past two seasons.
“Allison was an extremely hard-working and dedicated athlete who was known for her leadership abilities within the team and her drive to be the best in the world,” said ACA Chief Executive Officer Ken Read.
“Her performance at the 2003 FIS World Alpine Ski Championships was especially important because it came at a critical time in which Alpine Canada Alpin was looking to re-establish its credibility. Allison was always focused on achieving excellence and she proved that she had what it takes,” said Read.
“I have the highest respect for Allison, her results, her leadership, for what she continues to put back into the ski racing community and the community at large through her support to the Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation,” he added.
Forsyth was joined by several teammates and friends at retirement announcement, which took place at Canada Olympic Park in Calgary, AB.
“I think the thing I will miss the most is my team. My teammates and coaches are my family and it will be difficult to not be able to travel and spend time with them,” said Forsyth, who added that she is considering a career in broadcasting following today’s announcement.
“As with many retiring athletes I am nervous about the transition in to ‘real life.’ However, I am confident that the skills I have acquired through elite athletics will ensure my success in the future,” she said.
