As well as training at the Lecht this weekend, we also had 12 racers over at Nevis Range in Fort William, competing in the Scottish U14 and U16 Championship.
2 days of exciting racing were completed, under blue skies. The courses were very challenging, with the race pistes being (best described as) very firm.
GS on Saturday was very exciting with an impressive performance from Gordon Skiers.
Andrew Simpson showed an amazing step up in his performance, with the sort of form he showed recently in Courchevel. He didn't quite manage to podium, but held fourth position.
Rachel Brown surprised herself, as much as the competition, when she pulled off her Silver in the GS. A great return to form for Rachel and, like Andrew, showed the skills she had developed in recent camps. Ruby Still completed the U16 girls podium with an impressive Bronze. Ruby is the quiet assassin. Always mild mannered in the start gate, then showing true grit in the gates.
In the U14 GS category Gordon's made up two thirds of the podium, yet again, with Amelia Allan taking the Silver. Beth Whatford put in a very impressive, attacking, performance. There was a moment when she thought it was all over and had to hike to a gate, but she managed to pull off the Gold.
Sunday saw all the athletes compete in the slalom race. Again we were spoilt by crystal clear weather and thrilling racing. The U16's didn't manage to podium, but Rachel managed an impressive fourth with Ruby close behind in fifth.
In the U14's Gordon's only managed one podium place, but it was the all important Gold. Beth Whatford managed to take the clean sweep and hold off the competition to take the overall Scottish U14 Championship. One very happy girl.
All in all, a fantastic weekend and I'd like to thank the athletes for their commitment to the club and to racing. I've seen a massive improvement in the numbers entering races this year and hope this continues. If any athletes are in doubt about races, have a chat with the other members. They'll let you know how much fun these events are.
Out of 12 Athletes, we had no Disqualifications and only one racer unable to complete the races. Unfortunately Neil Simpson took a nasty fall on Saturday and gave us all a scare. He was taken off the hill in quite a mess and held in hospital until midnight, waiting for potential transfer to Glasgow or Inverness. It was a happy ending though and Neil was back in the hotel and joined the rest of the racers for breakfast on Sunday.
We also had to say goodbye to Ali Mathieson at the weekend. All going well, Ali will qualify as a Medical Doctor in a few months, so turns his focus to his studies for the rest of the season. Ali has dedicated 9 years to Gordon Skiers and he will be sorely missed. His experience is invaluable, having competed at an international level and been a lead coach for the English Ski Team.
Good Luck Ali.
The end of the season is drawing ever closer and what a season it's been. We may still have more training weekends to go and have several athletes out competing in the British Champs in Tignes, in April.
Once I have the complete Season listing I'll put together a summary on our season's successes and highlights. Now......that will take some time.
That's all for now folks, speak soon.
Gary W
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