Clift, Johnstone claim FIS JNR SBX Series

Weather may have stopped the scheduled running of the FIS JNR SBX Series this season, however in true “can-do” fashion, a creative way of holding the event was created.

While the Thredbo, Buller and Perisher events were unable to proceed due to snow conditions, it was fantastic to witness a full week of racing at Hotham across the FIS Junior and ANC Events.

The decision was made to let those of FIS Junior age battle it out over all FIS SBX Events at Hotham to determine a Junior Series Winner.

In the end it was Mia Clift and James Johnstone who added their names to the perpetual Chumpy Pullin Trophy in 2023.

Johnstone said the victory means a great deal to him.

“To win the overall in my last year as a junior and to receive the trophy that is in Chumpy’s name is the most incredible honour,” he said.

“Hotham this year was brilliant. The mountain was able to produce a terrific track in extremely hard conditions and we are all grateful.

The junior race and the three ANC races that followed showed that my hard work over the last 12 months has really paid off.”

Clift also spoke highly of the event and what the competition means to her and other athletes.

“It was a super fun day of racing and I am honoured to have won an event in the name of Chumpy,” she said. “It is so awesome that the Foundation has supported junior athletes and given them an opportunity to race while also carrying on Chumpy’s legacy.

“It was great to be back racing and seeing the community together.”

With the support of the Chumpy Pullin Foundation the Junior Series will be back bigger and better than ever next season.

Click here for more information about the Chumpy Pullin Foundation | Click here to donate

Image courtesy of Chris Hocking / OWIA