Newly expanded to include younger skiers, masters from ages 18 to over 80 compete on the same runs used for World Cup events. Slalom, giant slalom, super G and downhill are all included in the 200-plus races in this seasons schedule. Masters series are conducted within each of the eight geographic divisions of USSA including Alaska, Central, Eastern, Far West, Intermountain, Northern, Pacific Northwest and Rocky Mountain. Each USSA division has a specific contact person who can provide details on divisional competition programs (see divisional contacts listed on this web site.
In addition to divisional competition, there are opportunities to compete on a regional, national, and international level. The USSA Alpine Masters Program is just one of the participants in the International Ski Federation’s (FIS) International Masters Cup (IMC) in the U.S., Canada, and Europe. The highlight of the race season in the USA concludes with the USSA Masters National Championships. Internationally, world Masters compete each winter for the FIS Masters World Criterium. Canada also hosts a national championship series with speed events.
Masters racing offers more than high-quality ski competition. It offers an opportunity to meet, ski and compete with a group of extraordinary individuals from all walks of life. There are many of the pioneers of the ski industry competing within masters including ski area developers, 10th Mountain Division alumni, ski equipment and clothing entrepreneurs, former national team members, and honored members of the U.S. Ski Hall of Fame. Masters racing is highly social, and the masters are a friendly group. Of the reasons current masters list for participation, camaraderie is always among the first. Second, of course, to a love of competition. At many events, masters racing is a family affair, where two or three generations compete.
