SkiExpert.net: Student Pages

USSA programs are organized into general program categories based on the needs of racers at every level. Programs may overlap or be identified in some divisions. Details on these programs are found in Regional, Divisional and State programs at www.ussa.org, as well as in regional, divisional an state handbooks.

Competition Categories

Youth (non-scored) Ages 12 and younger
Student (non-scored) Ages 13 and older
Competitor (scored to USSA) Ages 13 and older
FIS Competitor (scored to USSA and to FIS) Ages 15 and older
Masters Racing Ages 21 and up*

* A racer 21 years of age or older may compete in either masters or seeded competition or both, depending on the rules of a specific region. He or she must have a competitor and a masters membership in order to participate in both programs.

Age Classes (by year of birth)

Juniors
J6                            Ages 8 and younger
J5                            Ages 9-10
J4                            Ages 11-12
J3                            Ages 13-14
J2                            Ages 15-16
J1                            Ages 17-19

Adults or Seniors
SR                         Ages 20 or older

Note: Racers should check with their local program, or with their local office regarding details or exceptions that may apply. Some regions, divisions or states may recognize other age categories below the J5 class.

Alpine Ski Racing Disciplines

In the early days of alpine ski racing, athletes competed in only two events: downhill and slalom. Giant slalom was added to the lineup in 1950 and Super G in 1983. Downhill and Super G are generally grouped together as "speed" events, while slalom and giant slalom grouped as "technical" ones. Skiers generally compete in either speed events or technical events, although the trend is to develop skiers on a broader base, skiing all disciplines. All race courses must meet strict standards established and monitored by officials of the FIS. In the US, it is FIS and the USSA officials.