New Heights and Dynamic Team

Dominik Paris Kitzbühel GEPA Photos

Nordica Racing USA is ramping up its game and has some exciting updates! In addition to the notable enhancement of their legendary Dobermann race boot, Nordica is unveiling a dynamic duo of US Sports Marketing Coordinators strategically positioned to cater to every aspect of ski racing. Jake Benda will take charge out West while Cam Heald holds it down in the East – Nordica Racing USA is making waves! Meanwhile, in Europe, the esteemed Manfred Mölgg assumes the role of Racing Sport Manager for the Tecnica Group (Nordica, Blizzard Tecnica).

Benda’s and Heald’s skiing passions ignited early. Benda began at an age so young he can’t remember, skiing alongside his ski-patroller father at Utah’s Brighton Resort. Heald’s ski story began at Vermont’s Pico Mountain at age 6, followed by five years at Killington Mountain School and then college racing. Heald’s family has a long history of skiing and racing. At the same time, Benda’s racing started in pursuit of more time on snow but quickly became part of his essence. Both men loved the sport so much that they coached after their athletic careers ended.

Now they are committed to improving the US Nordica race service. Benda shares that he took the job with Nordica for the “same selfish reason that got me into ski racing; I love to ski. This job takes me to many unique places and connects me with people with that same passion.”

Heald elaborates on his reasons for joining the Nordica race program: “I prioritize being a part of a team that fully supports racing and shares my passion for the ski industry. And the ultimate reward? Witnessing Nordica and the racing community benefit from our efforts.”

Benda discusses the best part of being a Nordica Race Service team member: “Racing is tough – physically, mentally, you name it. There are many people involved in the support network of racers. Parents, coaches, teachers, equipment providers, doctors, the list goes on and on… It is exciting to be a part of this support network and provide athletes with equipment to get them to the top of the podium. Nordica has always had great equipment. It will be exciting to see the results of our new racing structure.”

Heald elaborates on his reasons for joining the Nordica race program: “I prioritize being a part of a team that fully supports racing and shares my passion for the ski industry. And the ultimate reward? Witnessing Nordica and the racing community benefit from our efforts.”

Europe has also undergone notable shifts with Mölgg’s inclusion. A ski racing legend, he boasts 20 World Cup podiums, three World Championship medals and a slalom globe. Notably, he significantly contributed to developing his equipment throughout his enduring career.

Mölgg’s decision to join the Nordica team stems from its ambitious racing objectives. The allure of collaborating with a company driven by significant aspirations enticed him. He views this venture as a refreshing and invigorating challenge. Additionally, he firmly believes in Nordica Racing’s potential and feels he’s an ideal fit for his new role. Mölgg says, “The ultimate aim is to develop competitive equipment that consistently wins.”

Mölgg’s tasks include athlete recruitment, fostering relations, product innovation, equipment testing, team management, overseeing ski service and race-specific factory personnel and guiding junior and national team racing initiatives.

As articulated by Mölgg and Tecnica Group’s President Zanatta, Nordica Racing’s philosophy emphasizes continuous step-by-step growth in pursuit of superior equipment. Zanatta emphasizes maintaining the company’s strong traditions while remaining small to prioritize quality over scale. He adds, “We’re dedicated to providing unparalleled support for all our athletes.”

Mölgg affirms, “Nordica’s commitment to excellent equipment utilizes constant year-round prototyping and testing to reach our goals.”

Benda is eager to contribute to Nordica’s “passion for excellent products with an overhauled global team and five-year race strategy. Our aim is top-tier service with two full-time US staff supporting racers. I also intend to use my coaching background to add valuable insight. Many athletes can run into problems, wondering if their equipment, skiing ability, or something else is holding them back. My goal is to ensure there are no questions about the equipment, allowing our athletes to push out of the start gate confidently every time.”

Heald explains the vision and his responsibilities: “We are community driven. We believe in our athletes, their coaches and our products. Sharing our support and commitment to those three pillars is our vision. And as the Eastern Sports Market Manager, I have the critical role of living our vision daily by supporting ski racers of all ages and abilities.”

Nordica has a long history of excellence. Now they have a new boot that combines their rich history in racing and the needs of today’s best racers. Nordica products will allow athletes to reach their highest level. Benda adds, “It will be exciting to watch where this takes our athletes in the years to come.”

The best way to obtain high-performing Nordica equipment is through certified race centers. Join the Nordica race revolution! For additional questions, contact Jake Benda at jake.benda@nordicausa.com or Cam Heald at cam.heald@nordicausa.com

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List of certified race centers