National Development Team member Ben Thornhill announced his retirement Wednesday from the Canadian Alpine Ski Team. Thornhill, 18, had seen mixed results this season, which included a season high fourth-place finish in a FIS GS at Panorama.
A strong technical skier, Thornhill entered the 2002 season with a World Age Rank of 12 in giant slalom, 14 in super G and 23 in DH. He first made his mark on the international scene almost seven years ago, becoming the first Canadian to win the prestigious Trofeo Topolino children's race in Courmayer, Italy.
With that finish, he joined a distinguished list of racers including Alberto Tomba, Marc Girardelli, Pirmin Zurbriggen and Benjamin Raich. “I guess I felt a change was needed,” said Thornhill of his decision. “I've been doing this for a long-time and there are other things I would like to pursue. I don't have the desire to compete at this level right now,” he continued. “It's time to take a break.”