A new racing league is hoping to build the sport of alpine ski racing by giving high school students a shared banner under which to compete.
Utah High School Ski Racing League is a new 501(c)(3) organization founded by parents and student-athletes. Through the organization, athletes can race under their school’s banner and represent their classmates under a team identity.
Starting this month, the league launches with two inaugural events: a race on Saturday, Feb. 28, at Utah Olympic Park and another on March 11 at Sundance Resort. These will be the first organized high school ski races in Utah in recent years. Families can sign up or learn more on the official Utah High School Ski Racing site.
Organizers said they are following a model similar to the Utah High School Mtn Biking League, starting as a club sport with an emphasis on access, growth and competition.
Park City Ski & Snowboard is supporting the league by donating time, volunteering at events and partnering with Utah Olympic Park to host the first-ever high school ski race this season, the organization said.
“We see this as filling a critical gap in the alpine development pipeline while creating a clear pathway from club racing through high school competition to collegiate skiing,” Park City Ski & Snowboard said in a press release. “High school racing has proven successful in other states, often drawing 200-plus racers per gender and building strong community connections. This league brings that same opportunity to Utah athletes.”
To learn more or get involved, visit the Utah High School Ski Racing League website: utahskiracing.org.