A dusting of snow on area mountain tops is a gentle reminder that ski season is just around the corner, so it is time to start thinking about hitting the slopes and signing young skiers up with the Red Mountain Racers or Nancy Green Ski League.
The Red Mountain Racers (RMR) will kick off another season with their annual ski swap on Oct. 26 at Willi Krause Field House in Trail.
Gear check-in starts at 8:30 a.m. and goes to 11:30 a.m. with experienced volunteers on hand to help price your gear. There is a charge of $1 per checked item.
Experienced volunteers will help new skiers and old select the best gear for their ability and dollar, and, as an added bonus, representatives from Red Resort will be present to take photos for season passes to early bird season pass holders.
RMR executive members will also be at the Swap to take Nancy Greene Ski League registrations for the upcoming year. Check the Red Mountain Racers website (www.redmountainracers.com) for updated registration packages, and don’t forget that early-bird registration ends Nov. 19.
The Nancy Greene Ski League is open to young skiers from five to 12 years old who are able to ride Red Chair and is the “FUNdamental” stage of ski racing.
“We really want to promote a love of skiing as a lifelong sport, through introducing kids to ski racing in a fun, encouraging environment,” said Phil Patterson, head coach of Red Mountain Racers.
“Attending races is optional. We focus on enjoying the snow with friends whether free-skiing or in the gates.”
Every Saturday for 10 weeks, skiers will be introduced to basic skiing technique and skills to ski in as many different snow conditions and terrains as possible.
The program also promotes basic ski safety, knowledge, teamwork, self-confidence and most of all, how to have fun on skis.
Each year skiers can participate within their club in team and individual competitions. Included in the price are optional races that take place at Red and other local hills throughout the area with other Nancy Greene teams.
The focus while competing is on the opportunity to test the skills learned in the program, with an emphasis on team results and camaraderie. While the program does have an element of gate training and competition, fostering a love of the sport is the primary goal.
For information on the Nancy Greene Ski League, please contact ngsl.redmountainracers@gmail.com.