Manuel Osborne-Paradis Canadian skier Date of Birth: 08.02.1984 Country: Canada

Biography of Manuel Osborne-Paradis

Manuel Osborne-Paradis is a Canadian alpine skier who was born and raised in North Vancouver. He began skiing at the age of three and by the time he was seven, he was already conquering steep mountain slopes and setting himself various challenges during his daily training sessions. His mother, Jane, fondly nicknamed him "Aviator" because of his determination to jump over any gorge that came his way.

As a young boy, Manuel joined the Wee Skamps ski camp when he was just four years old, which further fueled his passion for skiing. After extensive training, he was admitted into the Whistler Mountain Ski Club, where he honed his skills and eventually became a member of the British Columbia ski team and later the Canadian national ski team. Throughout his sporting career, Manuel drew inspiration from his grandfather, James, who was a doctor and had moved to Whistler long before it became a popular destination. Manuel spent a lot of time with his grandfather, skiing together and enjoying their time at the Osborne lodge.

When Vancouver was awarded the honor of hosting the 2010 Winter Olympics, Manuel was fully focused on his training, preparing for the upcoming season. Although he learned that his hometown had won the Olympic bid, he didn't attach much significance to it as he had already participated in the 2006 Olympics and had lost some of the excitement for the games. In that previous Olympics, Manuel competed in three races, his best result being a thirteenth place finish in the downhill event.

In March 2009, Manuel achieved a major milestone in his career by winning his first World Cup race in Kvitfjell, in the downhill discipline. He had previously been on the podium in November 2006, receiving a prize in the same event. However, this victory surpassed all his previous achievements. On November 29th, Manuel won the super-giant slalom race in Lake Louise, and on December 19th, he won another downhill race in Val Gardena.

In April 2008, Manuel, together with his teammate Mike Janyk, opened a four-day training camp for underprivileged skiers from the surrounding areas of British Columbia. This camp, located in Whistler, is considered one of the best developmental schools in the country. Manuel's dedication to the sport extends beyond his own career, as he seeks to give back and support aspiring young athletes.

With his determination, passion, and numerous accomplishments, Manuel Osborne-Paradis has become a respected figure in Canadian alpine skiing, leaving a lasting legacy in the sport.