Kristofor Mahler of Canada earned his first International Ski Federation Ski Cross World Cup win in Val Thorens ©Getty Images

Kristofor Mahler of Canada earned his first International Ski Federation (FIS) Ski Cross World Cup win in the French resort of Val Thorens.

The 24-year-old gained 1000 points after crossing the finish line first, beating home favourites Bastien Midol and Jean-Frederic Chapuis. 

It was Mahler's first World Cup victory, having finished sixth in the race at the same venue yesterday. 

In the women's competition, overall defending champion Fanny Smith made amends for yesterday's disappointing fifth place finish and topped the podium, securing her 20th World Cup win.

Switzerland's Fanny Smith won the women's competition at the FIS Ski Cross World Cup in Val Thorens - the 20th victory of her career in the competition ©Getty Images
Switzerland's Fanny Smith won the women's competition at the FIS Ski Cross World Cup in Val Thorens - the 20th victory of her career in the competition ©Getty Images

The Swiss athlete beat yesterday's winner, Sandra Näslund of Sweden, who had to settle for second place.

In third was Courtney Hoffos of Canada. 

"The craziest thing for me about today’s win is the fact that I achieved my 20th World Cup win and my 40th World Cup podium, so I am really excited about that,"said Smith.

The Ski Cross World Cup is due to continue in the Austrian city Montafon from next Thursday to Saturday (December 12 to 14).