AJ Ginnis Joins VAN DEER-Crimson Bull Sports activities, Embracing a New Chapter with Marcel Hirscher’s Crew
Former U.S. Ski Crew member AJ Ginnis, Greece’s first alpine snowboarding World Cup medalist, has joined the VAN DEER-Crimson Bull Sports activities crew—an inspiring subsequent step in a profession formed by perseverance, daring selections, and nationwide delight.
The announcement, shared by VAN DEER-Crimson Bull Sports activities, marks greater than a brand new gear deal. It unites Ginnis’ exceptional story with Marcel Hirscher’s rising model.
Hirscher stated, “AJ enriches the World Cup scene not solely together with his expertise and character, however brings a complete nation into the snowboarding world. I’m extremely joyful to have him with us.”
A Match of Spirit and Story
The bond between Ginnis and VAN DEER was cast via shared moments of triumph. On the 2023 World Championships in Courchevel/Meribel, Henrik Kristoffersen claimed VAN DEER’s first gold in slalom. Ginnis, snowboarding for Greece, took silver—the primary alpine World Championship medal in his nation’s historical past.
The crew described the race as one with “two winners.” Now, they’re united beneath the identical banner.
From Athens to the Alps
In an interview with the crew, Ginnis mirrored on his uncommon path—from childhood weekends at Mt. Parnassos to transferring to Austria at age 12 and struggling to regulate. “I began out actually unhealthy,” he stated, “however I discovered quick, made mates, and caught with it.”
His journey continued with a sports activities scholarship within the U.S., a stint on the U.S. Ski Crew, and ultimately a return to Greece when accidents and uncertainty lower quick his American profession.
Breaking By means of for Greece
In February 2023, Ginnis made historical past in Chamonix with a second-place end after charging from twenty third within the first run. Two weeks later, he received silver in Courchevel behind Kristoffersen.
“That second of triumph in spite of everything these challenges modified me,” Ginnis stated. “It confirmed what was doable.”
A Comeback with New Gear
After present process his third knee surgical procedure, Ginnis is making ready for a recent begin. He believes his transfer to VAN DEER-Crimson Bull Sports activities is greater than only a ski swap—it’s a return to the extent he is aware of he can attain.
“The best way they strategy ski racing right here, the extent of professionalism—it’s on one other degree,” he stated. “Being a part of what Marcel is constructing, with all of the minds behind his success—it’s a giant deal.”
This text consists of quotes and background data supplied by VAN DEER-Crimson Bull Sports activities.
