NEWS

 

Article posted on: 08 April 2015

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PRESS RELEASE TUESDAY 7th APRIL



                                                       Dougie Crawford announces retirement.

 

 

Nine years in the British Ski Team, 25 time British Champion, 21st in the World Championships in Val D’Isere and a career high World Ranking of 54, Britain’s top downhill racer and arguably Britain’s best all round male alpine racer has announced that this Thursday’s Giant Slalom Scottish Championship race in the Nevis Range will be his last.

 

The highlight for Dougie was his remarkable 21st whilst only 21 years old on the notoriously difficult La Face piste in 2009 in Val D’Isere. With his ever improving form, Dougie’s huge potential was sadly hindered by the federation’s decision to stop funding Britain’s speed skiers meaning both he and TJ Baldwin had to go it alone.

 

Having spent the last season coaching the British Disabled Ski Team contemplating his future, Dougie has decided to call time on his own career and move to helping to bring out the best in others.

 

On his decision to bring out the race skis for this weeks competition, Dougie says; “I have always felt passionate about supporting Scottish races. Having started my career racing in Scotland, and winning my first Scottish title at Nevis it’s an apt end to be returning here for my last. Also with the Scottish champs finally being held back in Scotland it is a perfect opportunity for me to hopefully inspire some of our talented youngsters.”

 

“I am obviously sad to end my career having not achieved all my goals nor feeling I fulfilled my potential. I look back with some ‘what ifs’ and ‘if only’s but am proud of the efforts I made and results I achieved and feel enormously privileged to have been able to follow my dreams, even without federation support over the past few years. I am so grateful to my coaches, sponsors (Sky Scanner, Ski Scotland, Hazledene, Nevica, Bearsden Ski Club and Head) and friends for their support and help. Also without the unwavering support of my family, my mum, dad, brother Mike and wife Chemmy none of this would have been possible. Thank you.

 

“Thursday will no doubt be a very emotional day as I have put so much of myself into the sport but the timing feels right for me to move on.”

 

 

 

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Dougie will be available for interviews in the finish area of Thursday’s race in The Nevis Range (approximately 1pm) and on 07773482377.

 

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