Perisher Hosts Alpine and Para Alpine Nationals

Perisher Resort hosted the FIS Alpine and Para Alpine National Championships (NC) and National Junior Championships (NJC) on September 9-10, bringing together experienced Paralympians and first-time racers for a fast-paced week of Slalom racing.

Front Valley provided the setting for two days of competition, opening with the Para National Championships on September 9 before the FIS Alpine events took to the course on September 10. 

Ali Bombardier, Para Teams Manager & Alpine Coach at Snow Australia, reflected on a successful few days of competition, and the sport’s growth within Australia. 

“It was amazing to get some new para racers out and racing, whilst establishing a FIS profile,” she said.

“We are looking through the cohort and expect this group to grow in the future and hope to have all categories covered in future competition.”

Oliverth Reyes Sanches posted strong results over the whole event, particularly as he only clipped into skis a year ago. 

Zara Perry also made her debut, racing with guide Lara Gilson to a series of solid finishes, just behind Paralympian Georgia Gunew.

“These events were a great opportunity for FIS racers from around the country to come together and battle out for Slalom National Championship and National Junior Championship titles, as well as establish FIS point profiles” Bombardier said.

“A huge thanks to Perisher for going above and beyond to prepare the slope and enable the spring races.”

As the sun broke through the cloud cover, spring ski racing continued into the FIS Alpine and NJC Slalom events.  

Owen Clark took the top spot in three races over the two days, with Archie Landon-Smith close behind, before claiming the victory in the second FIS Slalom race.

In the women’s field, Keely Allen topped the podium twice, while Annabelle Jones was the model of consistency placing second in all four races.

Alongside the race week, Snow Australia ran its Para Development & Classification Camp at the National Snowsports Training Centre (NSTC) and Perisher Resort. Athletes took part in education sessions and on-snow coaching, with the camp focused on development and introducing athletes to a daily training environment.

With a strong group of Para Alpine athletes on the Australian FIS pathway, and a deep junior and senior field pushing the pace on the Ski Alpine side, Snow Australia will be looking to build on this week’s momentum as athletes begin to turn their attention to the Northern Hemisphere season.