President’s Message: There’s nothing quite like ski racing.

by Rees Palermo

I keep asking, why do we do this sport of Alpine ski racing, especially into our later years of life?

Well, there’s nothing quite like it.

First of all, we must love skiing. It’s basically an “ adrenaline” sport, but add the element of skiing fast and having to turn, whether we’re ready or not, adds another dimension to an already challenging sport.

Lindsey Vonn has said it’s the only way she can ski a trail as fast as she wants without worrying about hitting another person. Having the whole trail to oneself for a brief period of time is certainly one of the appealing parts of this sport. But, that’s just one element. It makes you a better skier! No denying that! We are always working on our technique.

But, what’s the appeal?  Wearing skin tight suits in winter is a bit odd I think.  Spending gobs of money on several pairs of skis, and joining a ski team to practice going around poles surely is crazy, isn’t it?  And, the travel expense to compete at another area hours away must be insanity!

But we love it!  We meet other people of like-minded insanity. We love going fast and challenging ourselves at every opportunity. We love getting to explore other areas. It helps us stay young and gives us a reason to exercise and stay in shape. And it’s skiing! We get to be outside on the top of a mountain in winter.

So, is it crazy?  Maybe so, but we love it for one reason or another.  Perhaps we love it for all different reasons personal to each of us. We identify with it.

So keep going. Enjoy this crazy sport!  We are here for you.