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BEFORE THE RACING COMES THE SMILES

BUCK HILL INTRO TO SKI RACING

Every ski racing journey starts with a first experience on snow.

It might be the first time clicking into skis, riding the chairlift without help, linking confident turns down the hill, or making it through a set of gates for the first time. Those early moments are what build the foundation for a lifelong relationship with skiing.

The Buck Hill Intro to Ski Racing Program is designed for young athletes ages 6-8 who are ready to improve their skiing skills, gain confidence, and discover the excitement of ski racing in a fun and supportive environment.

For many families, getting started in ski racing can feel like a big step. The gates, the speed, and the competitive side of the sport can seem intimidating at first. The reality is that every experienced racer, from beginners to Olympians, started with the same goal: learning to become a better skier.

At Buck Hill, we believe the first step should be about building confidence, creating positive experiences, and helping young athletes fall in love with the sport. And guess what?  Registration for Buck Hill Intro to Ski Racing is now open.

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Building Confident Skiers

The focus of Intro to Ski Racing is to develop strong skiing fundamentals while introducing young athletes to the basics of ski racing. Before athletes compete, they need to become comfortable and confident on their skis.

Through skill-building drills, directed free skiing, and introductory gate training, athletes begin developing the techniques needed to progress as skiers and racers.

During the program, athletes work on:

– Improving balance, control, and turning skills
– Progressing from wedge turns toward parallel skiing
– Learning the fundamentals of ski racing
– Becoming comfortable skiing through gates
– Building confidence on different terrain
– Developing a positive relationship with competition and challenge

The program is structured to meet young athletes where they are while giving them the tools and encouragement needed to continue improving. Experienced coaches guide athletes through each step, creating an environment where learning is fun and progress is celebrated.

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Creating a Foundation for the Future

The most important part of Buck Hill Intro to Ski Racing is helping young athletes develop the confidence and skills that make future growth possible.

Children learn that improvement takes practice, patience, and persistence. They learn how to try something new, make mistakes, adjust, and try again. Those lessons extend far beyond skiing. They also discover the community that makes ski racing special. Friendships are built during training, on the chairlift, and throughout the season as athletes work toward shared goals and celebrate each other’s progress.

For some athletes, Intro to Ski Racing becomes the first step toward D-Team and eventually the Buck Hill Ski Racing Team and just maybe the US Ski Team. For others, it creates the foundation for becoming a confident skier who enjoys spending winters on the snow.

There is no single definition of success. The goal is to help every athlete leave the program with improved skills, greater confidence, and a genuine love for skiing.

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Ready to Start the Journey?

Registration for the 2026-2027 Buck Hill Intro to Ski Racing is now open.

If your child is ready to learn new skills, build confidence, make friends, and experience the excitement of ski racing, Intro to Ski Racing is the perfect place to begin.

No previous race experience is required. Athletes simply need a willingness to learn, a positive attitude, and a desire to have fun on snow.

Because before the race course, the competition, and the finish lines, every ski racing journey begins with a simple first step, and a smile.

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