Tyler Turner crowned season World Cup champion in Para snowboard cross

STEAMBOAT SPRINGS, Colorado – Paralympic Games champion Tyler Turner of Campbell River, B.C., won the last World Cup snowboard cross race of the season Wednesday to take the Crystal Globe trophy in the men’s lower limb 1 category.

In the four-man final, Turner took top spot ahead of his two American rivals Noah Elliott in second and Mike Schultz in third. Andre Barbien of Brazil was fourth.

‘’This Crystal Globe might be the sweetest to date because the competition is only getting stronger and stronger,’’ said Turner. ‘’Anyone can win on any day! This has been the most ups and downs that I’ve ever experienced in a World Cup season, missing the podium due to uncharacteristic mistakes. ‘’

The season title came down to Wednesday’s last race and Turner delivered with his second victory of the season

”The entire season came down to a three way tie for the Crystal Globe in the final race of the final World Cup of the season,” said Turner to CPC. ”It was a winner take all race, only the finals in Beijing in 2022 could top the anxiety I was feeling in the start gate.

”I was trying anything to keep my knees from feeling like Jello from the adrenaline.

”I had my best start of the week when it mattered most, putting me in the lead into turn one and I was able to hold the position all the way to the finish line.”

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Tyler Turner (@tyturner14)

In addition, Turner ranked second in the Para snowboard season overall standings (snowboard cross and banked slalom combined).

Turner and his Canadian teammates now head home for the Para snowboard World Championships March 5-10 at Big White, B.C.

”It was the most my hands have ever been shaking after a race,” Turner concluded. ”I am incredibly proud of this Globe and grateful for the amazing team around me supporting the ups and down of this World Cup season.”