A team of 8 ski racers consisting of Lucy, Annamaria, Annabelle, Colette, Adela, Anisiya, Maddie and Zoe competed in the British Schoolgirls’ Ski Races in Flaine over Short Leave. It was an action-packed trip with two training days ahead of two race days where the girls competed in Slalom, Giant Slalom and Parallel Slalom events. Here is a video with some of the highlights….

https://www.instagram.com/p/CoH-aB5Ai5i/

We had standout performances from Lucy who was the first unregistered racer in the Under 14 category for both Giant Slalom and Slalom events, placing within the top 30 out of 110 competitors in both disciplines. Annabelle was the second unregistered Under 16 racer in the Giant Slalom which is a brilliant result when up against top skiers who compete on the international circuit. Annabelle, as well as Zoe and Adela were in the top 20 age group finishers for both Giant Slalom and Slalom which are statistics to be proud of.

Many of the team are new to racing and the trip was a great experience to test their skills and build confidence. Miss Lowther and Mr Stiglitz who accompanied the trip are proud of them all and worked hard to keep up with them on the slopes, particularly the black mogul runs! We look forward to seeing how the team develops next season. Well done girls.

Here is our daily account of the trip.

Day 1

We soared above the clouds on day one of training in preparation for the British Schoolgirls Ski Races which are starting on Monday. The team spent the morning testing out a range of red and blue runs with coach Herve before pausing for hot chocolates to top up energy levels! The rest of the day was spent on the competitive Giant Slalom course to familiarise ourselves. We timed some runs and will build on this experience tomorrow. Tonight it’s a team de-brief and restful evening before hitting the slopes for day two.

Day 2

Day two of training saw the team test themselves on black mogul runs at the top of the mountain before spending time on the Slalom course. Runs were timed and technique perfected to prepare for races starting tomorrow. Lunch on the slopes with Tudor Hall School was a great break and chance to chat to other competitors. Tonight was the official welcome evening for the competition so we have been briefed and look forward to some racing tomorrow.

Day 3

The British Schoolgirls’ Races began with Giant Slalom and Parallel Slalom today. Great efforts from the whole team of 8; Lucy, Annabelle, Zoe, Adela, Anisiya, Colette, Maddie and Annamaria. For many, it was their first experience of racing and for others, there was plenty of high-level competition against GB skiers. Tired legs tonight so it’s an evening of rest before Slalom tomorrow.

Day 4

Ski races are complete for another season after the Slalom event concluded the competition today. It’s been a fun few days on the slopes of Flaine where the girls have tested themselves individually and gained lots of experience as a team. Thanks to the competition organisers and Flaine resort for hosting a great event and we look forward to returning in 2024! A special mention to Lucy, our youngest skier who was 5th in the U14 age group for both the Slalom and Giant Slalom events and the 1st unregistered U14 racer.