Gunew & Jackson score maiden Para Alpine World Cup podium

Georgia Gunew first joined the Australian Para Alpine Team in September 2022 for a series of races in New Zealand.

Just 16 months later she has earned her first World Cup medal, finishing third in slalom at the Veysonnez World Cup in Switzerland.

The visually-impaired skier is being guided this season by Ethan Jackson, with the pair developing quickly throughout a season impact by poor weather.

Gunew said despite limited race opportunities, her recent preparation filled her with confidence but a World Cup medal was a shock.

"Skiing in Europe has been very different to everywhere else I’ve skied,” said Gunew. The different cultures have been awesome to experience.

“We had a rough start to the season with weather but after an awesome training block in Italy I was feeling really confident going into these races.

“I definitely didn’t consider a World Cup podium in my first slalom race a possibility but standing on the podium with Ethan is something I’ll never forget.

“Ethan has been so fun to work with. I feel like we have a great connection and he’s helped me improve so much.”

Jackson believes the pair are building a strong partnership and is already casting an eye two years ahead to the next Paralympic Games..

“It’s awesome to see all the time and hard work we put in on and off the snow translating to competition,” he said. “Georgia and I have grown to rely on and support each other over the course of the season.

“I think this is the best foundation for the long road ahead to Cortina.”

Cortina is also next stop on the Para Alpine World Cup circuit, with Gunew and Jackson along with Josh Hanlon competing in two Slalom World Cups on Thursday and Friday.