It has been a very challenging year for the Coast Zone ski clubs. Low snowfall has meant many teams have been traveling away from their home mountains to find snow to train. As February approached Cypress Ski Club worried their club would not be able to host as planned on March 2-3. Fortunately, Whistler Mountain Ski Club graciously offered their training centre to Cypress Ski Club, and the last U14 Teck Coast Zone race could take place before the U14 Provincials at Red Mountain.
Wouldn’t you know that days before the race the snow finally began to fall, delivering so much that race organizers faced a new challenge – buried b-nets. With the help of coaches, course crew workers, and a contingent of volunteers from Tyee Ski Club, safety netting was re-set and ready for all race runs.
Nearly 130 athletes from Cypress, Whistler Mountain, Grouse Mountain Tyee, Mount Seymour, Sasquatch Mountain, and Mt. Washington ski clubs took part in the two-day event, featuring slalom on Saturday, March 2, and the GS on Sunday, March 3. Despite the falling snow, athletes were in high spirits and were excited to put their skills to the test. The courses held up pretty well considering the challenging mornings and all events were a success.
“The Coast Zone proved itself to be a champion ski community this weekend. So many volunteers, including alumni, came together to ensure the athletes had the opportunity to compete and prepare for the remainder of the season.”
Raul Anguita, Cypress Ski Club Program Director
Cypress Ski Club would like to share its utmost appreciation to Whistler Mountain Ski Club. The races were only possible because of their guidance, patience, and generous offer to co-host. Cypress Ski Club and all the Coast Zone athletes are indebted to the parents, coaches, race organizers, and volunteers for their hard work and dedication over the weekend. The club would also like to thank its sponsors, especially Odlum Brown Limited, Roper Greyell LLP, Orr Development, and Cypress Mountain.
~ Report submitted by Virginia Abbott, President Cypress Ski Club