Fernie’s own Kaleb Barnum delivered an impressive performance at the FISU Winter World University Games in Turin, Italy, securing a top-tier finish against some of the best university athletes in the world.

Barnum finished second in the ski cross qualifying time trial, just behind Sweden’s Erik Wahlberg, and placed fifth overall in the event. In a thrilling small final, Barnum emerged victorious, demonstrating his skill and determination on the international stage.

“I am having a great time with my team and am looking forward to the rest of the season. I appreciate the support from my family and friends in Fernie,” Barnum shared in an email to the Free Press.

The FISU Winter World University Games is a prestigious event held every two years, bringing together 1,500 university athletes under the age of 25 to compete in 11 sports for a total of 90 medals. Barnum’s teammate, Sage Stefani of Rossland, also earned a podium finish, claiming bronze in the women’s category.

A Busy Season Ahead
Barnum’s competition schedule is packed with high-level events. He is currently competing in the Europa Cup series, with stops in Reiteralm, Austria, Les Contamines-Montjoie, France, and Val di Fassa, Italy. In late February, he will head to Gore Mountain, New York, for the Nor-Am Cup before making his World Cup debut in Craigleith, Ontario, in March.

His season will conclude at the Junior World Ski Cross Championships, where he will defend his gold medal title from last year. In 2023, Barnum dominated the event in Sweden, winning all four of his heats and overtaking three-time competitor Nicholas Katrusiak of Whistler. This year, the championships will be held at Isola 2000, France.

With an impressive start to the season and an exciting road ahead, Kaleb Barnum continues to make Fernie proud on the international stage.

Photos Courtesy of FISU TV