The Vernon Ski Club (VSC) hosted the Okanagan Zone Finals from April 6-7 at SilverStar Mountain Resort, much to the pleasure of all the participants.
A total of 97 racers from across the zone from U12-U16 competed in GS and SL races on the “backside” of the mountain. Athletes and coaches were treated to early gondola loads and warm up runs in the sunshine on the frontside, before moving to the back of the mountain for inspection and races.
VSC was excited at the opportunity to host the race “Gypsy Queen” all season. The run is a perfect pitch and terrain for both GS and slalom. Thanks to the hard work of coaches and volunteers, the surface held up well, despite warmer than normal temperatures.
Saturday’s GS had the U14/U16 field ripping down a long and steep course with the U12s starting lower down. There were many great local results for the GS, including a top 3 sweep by VSC U14 Men athletes. Congratulations team!
Sunday was all about slalom and the surface was solid leading to some fabulous results. Again, saw a top 3 sweep – this time in the U12 girl’s by SunPeaks Racers – well done! A yummy BBQ lunch was served to vollies and athletes at the top of the run by our hardworking volunteers.
A few special thanks you: To our sweet U8 & U10 forerunners who showed the U12s how it is done, and our VSC alumni FIS athletes who returned to forerun the U14/16 course both days – thank you! To our VSC and visiting parents who spent long days on the course slipping, shoveling, salting, photographing, and keeping everything on time – Great Job! And as always, to our Race Organizing Committee, Program Director and SSMR for the endless hours of planning, hauling gear and course prep – thank you!
And lastly – to those athletes, parents and coaches who stayed until the bitter end to tear down a big set up on this very last day of the season – amazing work! The tear down was done in record time allowing everyone to get back to the village for apres and awards. VSC looks forward to hosting events and seeing everyone again next season!