Hundreds of hopeful competitors are arriving in Bormio, Italy for the 23rd English Alpine Championships, taking place from 17th to 23rd February 2019.
The championships, which are organised by Snowsport England, will begin on Saturday 16th February with the traditional opening day parade through the streets of Bormio. Pictured top is Angus Willis, image credit Racer-Ready
The six days of racing will then officially get underway on Sunday 17th February. Over 400 of Britain’s best skiers, ranging from under 10s to senior athletes, will descend on the Italian slopes and compete to be crowned champions.
This year’s event is set to be action packed and has been enhanced to offer separate Super-G races for the U14 and U16 contenders. For the first time, the championship week will close with an exciting new event – an individual head-to-head parallel competition for the ever-growing group of U10s and U12s.
Tim Fawke, CEO of Snowsport England, said: “We’re absolutely delighted to be returning to Bormio for the 2019 English Alpine Championships! The event is always very exciting and is important in terms of giving athletes the opportunity to gain professional racing experience. As well as attracting hundreds of competitors, the event is also great for the dedicated coaches, fans, volunteers and families who support all the athletes as they travel around the world – the atmosphere is unique and electric when everyone comes together!”
The English Alpine Championships act as a gateway for future British alpine skiing stars and in the past have featured competitors such as World Cup alpine ski racer Dave Ryding (aka ‘The Rocket’).
Tim added: “Dave Ryding began learning how to ski on a dry ski slope in Lancashire and is now Britain’s most successful World Cup skier. He is a prime example of what individuals can go on to achieve through their love of snowsports. Snowsport England is dedicated to supporting that passion right through to athlete level.
“As well as creating pathways for potential athletes, we want to encourage more children and young people to get involved in snowsports – and what better time than the English Alpine Championships to find out more about what is on offer at your local club On behalf of everyone at Snowsport England, we’d like to wish all the athletes the very best of luck in the championships!”