Sandy Kiyomura
I am “Vet woman”
This is what you can hear at the starting gate at the top of the race course. BAC (the Bay Area Council of Ski and Snow sports ) has a race league every season. You, as a member of Nisei Ski Club are eligible to race. There will be a free race day on Sunday, December 13 at Alpine Meadows. Discount lift tickets will be available. So if you’re thinking you can’t race, December 13 might be a good day to try. There are ten categories of racers. The “almost pro” racers are level 1 or 2. I’m an “intermediate” level 7. Within each level, there are categories based on gender and age. I am a “Vet woman” (so age has its benefits). When one places first, second, or third in their level/category, points are awarded to the individual as well as the club. There are three types of races: Slalom, Giant Slalom, and Super Slalom. Most skiers will find they are better at one than the others.
Some of the advantages of racing are: you will become a better skier, you will have the best snow on the mountain, you will meet other skiers, and it’s fun. Throughout the season, there are clinics you can participate in. I belong to another ski club and they have a cabin in Kings Beach. On race weekends, they offer not only lodging, but meals for the weekend. It’s like a weekend trip without the bus.
One other advantage is that anyone can get discount tickets on race day if you show up by 8:30 AM where the racers are. Mark your calendar for race days. https://sites.google.com/site/openleagueracing/home
You may contact me at: skiyomura@gmail.com if you have questions.
