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Alpine Ski Racing can seem complicated, so let me provide a summary.

We compete in 4 disciplines. (Slalom, Giant Slalom, Super G, Downhill). We have different sets of skis, helmets, poles, boots and gloves for each discipline. The terrain and vertical varies from one discipline to the next but the object for each is the same:

GO AROUND ALL THE GATES AND GET TO THE FINISH WITH THE FASTEST TIME.

Alpine Ski Racing in a Nutshell

  • SLALOM (TECH)

    Course is set with pole gates alternating red and blue. Shortest skis (165 cms) used with short turning radius, and helmet has a chin guard. Most turny of all disciplines. Each run is about 1:00 long and fastest combined time of 2 completed runs wins.

  • GIANT SLALOM (TECH)

    Course is set with panel gates set further apart than slalom. Longer skis (193 cms) are used with a higher turning radius. Each run is approx 1:00-1:30 mins long, fastest combined time of 2 runs wins.

  • SUPER G (SPEED)

    Longer course with panel gates set farther apart than GS. Longer skis to GS (210 cms) with longer turning radius are used. Higher speeds are reached (up to 110-125 km/h), with less turning. Run is approx 2 mins long. Fastest time of one run wins.

  • DOWNHILL (SPEED)

    This is the fastest (up to 125-145 km/h) and the least turny of all disciplines. Skis are considerably longer (218 cms). Gates set farther apart, and run is approx 2+ mins long. Usually many terrain changes and jumps involved. Fastest time of one run wins.

FUN FACTS

  • Days Skied

    150 + / yr

    I spend more days in ski boots than out. I’m thinking I put my feet into my boots for training and racing approximately 200 days a year. Ski racer’s feet really take a beating.

  • Countries Travelled

    12

    I have been lucky enough to train and race all over the world in some very special places. I have been to U.S.A., New Zealand, Austria, Italy, France, Sweden, Germany, Swtitzerland, Norway, Chile, Argentina.

    It is always exciting to see a new country and get a feel for what it is all about. I have my favourites.

    I have spent countless days travelling in my ski racing career. I wonder what my air miles are and time spent on a plane is?

  • How Much Equipment?

    Checking in at the airport is always interesting..

    12 pair of skis

    4-5 pair of boots

    4 helmets

    6 pair of goggles

    8 pair of poles

    Multiple duffel and travel bags and ski packs.

    Multiple sets of body protection

    2-3 hours a day tuning it all