By Sandy Kiyomura     

The 2003-2004 ski season is one that I’ll remember for quite a while. Although I’ve been skiing many years, racing is new to me. For years I was a recreational skier, then I became a “ski mom” and watched my three children compete in Downhill, Freestyle and Acroski events. However, I never imagined myself at the starting gate negotiating turns and picking lines. This is what I learned this year. Because of John and Austin’s leadership and organization, I had a BLAST this year! I think I finally know what I’m supposed to be doing when they say “racer ready, three, two, one go”. (Not that I always can do it though).

At almost every race, John and Austin organized a race clinic. I participated in three of them and on each race, I’ve placed first or second. I don’t think this would have happened without the clinic. But there’s a lot more than the clinics. I’m sure you’ve read John’s article on a Race Weekend. From the time that one arrives at the Lodge on Friday night, there is an indescribable feeling of adrenaline in the air. People are waxing skis, talking about the snow conditions, wondering what the course would be like. It’s hard for me to sleep Friday nights because of this “buzz”. Kind of like a kid the night before Christmas.

And Saturday morning, one can count on Ray or Ed getting up early to make coffee. Then there’s Eldon who does the perfect scrambled eggs. I’m an early riser, but Apres folks have me beat. There’s Warren and Mark stretching on the living room floor. By the time I arrive for breakfast, half the group has finished and is packing lunch. (But I notice that Linda and Laura seem to be still in their PJ’s when I’m leaving.)

This comaradie continues all day on the slopes. I know that when I’m at the gate, I hear people rooting for me. When you’re done racing, people talk at the race board and later at the lodge about who did what. Even if one didn’t do so well, someone will say “there’s always the next race”.

Saturday night dinner seems to be “the gathering place”. Because people race in different classes, not everyone is together during the day. But Saturday night people can socialize more. The wine and appetizers come out. There is always something yummy baking in the kitchen. I remember Denni’s pork roast (or was it Courtney and Sean’s). I did a “peanut butter/jelly salmon” that got devoured very quickly. It’s sometimes hard to tell if people are real hungry or the food is real good (maybe both). John and Austin will give highlights of the day and suggestions for the next. Jim Sanchez has people in odd positions (demonstrating angulation). Then Laura will start singing or dancing or getting people to play games. This is what a “typical” weekend at the Lodge is like.

In addition, there were post-season events such as NorCals and Far West. Nor Cals was with Open League and Sierra League. The competition was a lot tougher here. And of course, Far West are all the councils from the Western states. Throughout all these events, John and Austin kept us informed on last minute details and gave us encouragement and support. A big “thank you” for an awesome season!