September 5, 2003 (Lugano, SUI) – Great Britain's George Atherton raced down the Lugano DH course with an average speed of 29km/h to claim the fastest qualifying time in the junior men's event. Atherton's time was just under eight seconds faster than second placed rider, Italian Alan Beggin. France's Damien Spagnolo was third.

Justin Brown was Canada's top rider, qualifying in 41st place down the 2.3km course. Sean Brown was 56th, Jamie Biluk was 65th and Dominic Provost was 66th.

France's Emmeline Ragot, (who is currently ranked 11th in the elite women's DH World Cup) qualified first in the junior women's downhill event. Ragot was third earlier this year in the World Cup season opener in Fort William, Great Britain. New Zealand's Scarlett Hagen and Bernardita (CHI) were second and third respectively.

Although Canadian Brook Baker raced earlier in the junior women's cross-country event, she did not start the downhill race. We'll keep you posted on her status.

Junior Men's Qualifying Results:
1. George Atherton (GBR) 4:49.59
2. Alan Beggin (ITA) 4:57.38
3. Damien Spagnolo (FRA) 5:03.30

Canadians:
41. Justin Brown, 5:34.12
56. Sean Brown, 5:46.44
65. Jamie Biluk, 6:08.64
66. Dominic Provost, 6:23.45

Junior Women's Qualifying Results:
1. Emmeline Ragot (FRA) 5.46.06
2. Scarlett Hagen (NZL) 5:59.17
3. Bernardita Pizarro (CHI) 6:09.85