Professional skier Fraser Baggaley has been banned from international competition after being convicted of sexually assaulting a student from St Andrews University in the street. The 21-year-old from Edinburgh, who competes with the Fly Ski Racing team and works as a ski instructor, admitted to the attack which occurred in October 2024.
Details of the Assault
The court heard that Baggaley carried the 20-year-old victim out of a bar in St Andrews while she was heavily intoxicated and unable to stand. Despite intervention from a student welfare officer who raised concerns about the woman's condition, Baggaley proceeded to assault her by putting his hand down her trousers.
Court Proceedings and Statements
Fiscal depute Joanne Ritchie told Dundee Sheriff Court that the victim and Baggaley knew each other but had never been in a relationship. The welfare officer witnessed Baggaley carrying the woman to an outside area and intervened, stating she did not believe the woman could consent due to her level of intoxication.
The victim later informed police she had no memory of the events but confirmed she would not have consented to any sexual activity. When questioned, Baggaley claimed he did not remember the assault, suggesting he was equally intoxicated at the time.
Defence and Sentencing
Defence counsel Iain McSporran, KC, stated that Baggaley continues to express disbelief at his actions and has already faced significant consequences. He highlighted Baggaley's dedication to his skiing career, which had promising prospects, but noted his suspension from competitive arenas has left his future uncertain.
Sheriff Alasdair Carmichael remarked that the sexual assault met the custodial threshold but considered Baggaley's lack of previous convictions and his age in sentencing. Baggaley was placed on the sex offenders register for 12 months and ordered to complete 120 hours of unpaid work.
Impact on Career
Following his guilty plea, Baggaley was suspended by sports authorities and prohibited from attending competitive events. This ban effectively halts his international skiing career, with his return to the sport remaining unclear as he faces the repercussions of his actions.
