Solitude Hosts ISMF World Cup, Local Rider Competes for Team USA

The ISMF World Cup opener arrived at Solitude December 5 through 7, bringing elite ski mountaineering competition to Summit County at a decisive moment in the Olympic qualification calendar. As one of the final qualifying events before the 2026 Winter Games, the opener combines short sprint races and mixed relay finals that will award points and position athletes for national selection and Olympic entry.

Local interest centered on Park City native and Park City High alumnus Griffin Briley, who is competing for Team USA as a member of the under 20 national team and who has previously reached international podiums. Briley raced against a field of international competitors in formats that compress steep ascents transitions and technical descents into fast paced stages. The event schedule included opening ceremonies mixed relay finals sprint races and podium ceremonies across the three day window, with public access to the course and free entry for spectators.

Ski mountaineering or skimo places unique demands on athletes and provides a different spectator experience than traditional alpine events. Sprint races are short and intense, combining uphill sections technical boot pack transitions and downhill segments in a matter of minutes. Mixed relays assemble teams of men and women who complete successive stages with quick transitions and tactical exchanges, rewarding depth and coordination in national squads. Those formats make the World Cup both a spectator friendly showcase and a high stakes point earning opportunity for Olympic hopefuls.

Hosting the World Cup in the United States for the first time this season carries local economic cultural and developmental implications. The event draws athletes coaches and support teams to Summit County and offers visibility for winter sports programs in the region. For local youth and club programs the presence of an international field, and a hometown athlete on Team USA, creates a live example of the pathway from high school racing to international competition.

As races conclude and podiums are awarded today organizers and national federations will tally results that contribute to final Olympic qualification lists. For Summit County residents the weekend has been an opportunity to witness a growing Olympic discipline up close and to see a local athlete compete on the international stage.