Former Alpine Canada Alpin Chief Executive Officer Ken Read will lead Alberta Alpine, filling the position of President, which was vacated by Thomas Grandi who resigned in July to pursue his dream of Olympic gold.

“The drive, track record of success, passion, and experience of Ken Read builds on the tremendous momentum two-time World Cup gold medalist Thomas Grandi created for our organization and our sport in Alberta,” said board chair Mike Irwin.  “We are delighted to bring his leadership to the athletes, programs and events of Alberta Alpine so we may continue to be a strong supporter of ski racing excellence in Canada.”

Read, one of Canada’s most accomplished alpine ski racers as a member of the Crazy Canucks, stepped down as Chief Executive Officer of Alpine Canada Alpin in July. His appointment as President of Alberta Alpine is effective immediately.

“Thomas left a strong organization focused on excellence, inspiring young athletes to become engaged in alpine ski racing and a commitment to build strong programs, events and to win,” said Mr. Read. “We will build on that foundation to grow our sport, deliver for our athletes, enhance value for our partners, and create a sustainable, success-driven organization long into the future.”

During his almost six years at the helm of Alpine Canada Alpin, Mr. Read is widely recognized for assembling a management team that lead the turnaround of ski racing in Canada. He was particularly proud of both the athletic and fiscal performance of the organization, accomplished through innovative athlete development programs, strong athletic leadership and innovative marketing programs — a focus he intends to bring to Alberta Alpine.

Mr. Read stepped down from Alpine Canada Alpin because Board policy prohibits a parent of a national team racer from being employed within management of the national sports governing body. Mr. Read’s children are all ski racers. Alberta Alpine has no such policy.

“We simply see tremendous benefits of having Ken Read as President of Alberta Alpine. His decision to take this job is great for our sport and our organization,” said Mr. Irwin.

Read is currently Canada’s senior alpine representative within the FIS as a member of the FIS Alpine Committee Executive Board and Chair of both the FIS Alpine Youth & Children sub-committee and FIS Co-ordination Group for Youth & Children.