Chelsea Quebec Online

US Olympic medal winner and German ski maker sign two-year sponsorship deal

There's a major new player on the Marker Volkl World Cup team: Julia Mancuso (USA) will chase the points and the podium this coming season using racing equipment from the German ski maker. The 26-year-old skier is known for her passion for ski racing and her zest for life. "Super Jules", as she's known, is among the most successful women in alpine skiing.

Mancuso's ability to peak for big races was proven once again in Vancouver where she earned two silver medals (2010 Downhill and Super Combi). Her trophy case also includes an Olympic gold (Giant Slalom 2006), four World Cup victories and three World Championship medals (2nd Super Combi 2007, 3rd Super-G and Giant Slalom 2005)

"I took part in my first ski races with Volkl skis when I was a youngster – so the change is somewhat of a homecoming for me. I am focused on using the new material to open up a new and even more successful chapter in my skiing career. The new equipment compliments my skiing style and I am already feeling welcome into the Marker Volkl family," Mancuso says.

The mood at Marker Volkl is also exuberant following the successful coup: "It's sensational that we've managed to sign Julia. She's a world-class athlete who really knows how to focus. She regularly produces top performances at the biggest events. It's a tremendously good omen for the new season and for the World Championships in Garmisch-Partenkirchen, which as the sole German ski maker we see as a home event of sorts," said Jonathan Wiant, Managing Director at Marker Volkl International.