Racing
Throughout the year, thousands of skiers test themselves against the clock on the slopes of Wales, participating in ski races on the artificial slopes. Wales has a very successful series of races which start off with club and school events. The courses at these events are quite simple and the emphasis is as much upon participation and fun as it is upon the competition.Skiers who show more promise and interest then go on to compete in the National Events such as the ones listed below. These events attract skiers from throughout Great Britain and Ireland as well as a few from Europe. Each event is seeded thus allowing the competitors to gain national ranking based upon their finishing positions.
Most of the racing is slalom, with the occasional giant slalom and dual slalom being organised at the International Events. With the best skiers in the UK at these events, they provide a great chance to spectate (no charge) and pick up a few tips.
Getting into racing is easier than you would think and you are never too old to give it a go. Training is provided by each club which will specialise in training for all levels of competitor. Start off with some club or schools events and then move onto national standard events. To compete in the National Circuit you need to be registered as a competitor with Snowsport Wales (current cost under 11 years old is £19, others £30 per annum) this will provide you with insurance as a licence to compete.
If you show talent in these races and get some results to back this up, you may be selected to training with regional squads in North and South Wales and then onto selection for the Welsh Squad. Selection for the British squad and Olympic Games comes through results at international races on the snow.
Get on the slopes and test yourself against the best!!
Welsh Ski Team Sponsored by
Snowsport Cymru/Wales, Cardiff Ski & Snowboard Centre,
Fairwater Park, Fairwater, Cardiff, CF15 3JR
Tel: 029 20561904 Fax: 029 20561924
email:admin.snowsportwales@virgin.net