“I probably could have pushed through [the injury] if I was really determined, but I just decided for me, it’s more important to ski recreationally for the rest of my life than it is to race for the next year through to this next Olympic cycle,” she said.
Since retirement, McIvor has been busier than ever. With her Olympic success in 2010 and her incredible career overall — 11 podium finishes at World Cups between 2008 and 2011 and a top finish at the World Championships in 2009 — McIvor is in high demand. Photographers want her as their model. Businesses want her to inspire their staff. CBC wants her to do ski commentary. And, Whistler/Blackcomb wants her for their Ski with an Olympian package.
“There’s never a dull moment,” she said. “I’ve been doing speaking engagements on all sorts of topics that I can use my sports stories to shine a light on, and then working as a spokesperson for various marketing campaigns and causes.”
This weekend she’ll be in Jasper with her sister for Clicquot in the Snow.
“We’re going to give people some tips on technique and style and then we’re going to hold a race,” she said.
The first annual Veuve Clicquot race will be on the School House run. McIvor said she won’t be competing. She’ll just be getting things started.
“I think they’re concerned I’d get too competitive and put everybody to shame,” she said with a laugh.
Following the competition, McIvor will present the winner with the first-ever Veuve Clicquot Winner’s Coat.
Clicquot in the Snow is one of Veuve Clicquot Champagne’s “Wish You Were Here” events. Since 2010, similar events have taken place in 10 countries.
Other activities during the weekend are at the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge. There will be an ice bar, yoga, cooking demonstrations, a Moulin Rouge inspired gala and an after party with DJs from Urban Metropolis.
To learn more about the event, visit www.fairmont.com/jasper or www.skimarmot.com.
