Far West Skiing

Congratulations to the 2021 Season Far West PACE Team. These athletes are competing in the Far West Division, including Foreign Far West athletes, and can be of the Sr age class (many are collegiates racers). These athletes have less than 85 points in one event as a male and 105 ponts in one event as a female. 

The following 12 are named to the 2021 season team: Click here to view the team

Here we go FIS Families!

The first WR FIS Selections and registration are open for the season.
SELECTIONS OPEN 11.18.20 AND CLOSE 11.20.20 END OF THE DAY
QUOTA:  29 MEN AND 35 WOMEN (THIS RACE SERIES ONLY INCLUDES FAR WEST AND PNSA ALLOWING US A LARGER QUOTA)

Here is the process:
1. Coaches will confirm or pull athletes for the event via their responses.
2. Parents can review the selections by clicking here (also linked on the U19+ Schedules page). Make sure you are looking at the correct tab, Far West men or Far West women.
3. If your athlete is a selection you need to complete the registration via your MyUSSA portal for event online registration. Click here for directions on how to register.  THIS IS NOW OPEN AS OF 11.19.20 AT 12:20
4. Selection boards will be updated at the end of each day as the confirm and pull process takes place. 
5. Athletes currently listed as Alternates can wait until they become selections in order to pay online for this event.

Questions? Please contact the Far West Skiing Office.

Discounted Lodging Info:
WR FIS Mammoth Open 2020 – December 12 – December 18, 2020
For reservations, individuals need to call 800-MAMMOTH (1-800-626-6684) and reference the group name, WR FIS Mammoth Open 2020 or Group ID: 31117 or book online using the link below. Reservations are subject to the deposit and cancellation policies quoted online or by the vacation specialist. Please note applicable taxes and fees are subject to change at the time of your stay.
Cutoff Date: Not Applicable
Link: https://groups.mammothmountain.com/mammothresort/rlp/WRFISMammothOpen2020
Resort Fee: $10.00

Please note that Far West Skiing has worked with the Race Organizers and Age Class Chairs to come up with the following in an effort to comply with the COVID 19 guidelines for competition set forth by US Ski and Snowboard. We thank you for your flexibility and cooperation to make ski racing happen this season!
 

Far West Race registration requirements for 2021 Season - (this is not for Tahoe Race Series. FIS races will  have a modified version of this based on Quotas and Regional Policies)

1. All registration will be completed online via US Ski and Snowboard event online registration through the athletes My USSA portal. Registration will close 5 days prior to the first Team Captains Meeting of that event. (ie Wild West Series starts on Friday for Men and Sunday for Women, the reg will close Sunday night prior for all).
2. Coaches must complete their online registration for the event by the same deadline as the athletes.
3. The first one hundred athletes to register will be entered in the event. There will be no ‘waiting list’ available. Any pulls prior to the entry deadline need to go through the race organizer, allowing further athletes to register. Pulls after the entry deadline will not be refunded.
4. Registration will open 45 days prior to the Team Captains Meeting of an event. Race announcements need to be out prior to this 45 day window. Any delay in opening of the registration will be announced via the Far West Office eblast system.
5. Resort liability waivers must be received by the Organizing Committee no later than 48 hours after the close of online registration. There will be no opportunity to turn them in at the Team Captains Meeting and an athlete will be pulled from the event.
6. No late registration will be available.
7. Athletes are required to use their Far West purchased bib for the 2021 season for all Far West age class events (TRS race bibs through their program).
8. Items to be included on the Race Announcement from the organizing committee:
   1. Ticket purchase process/order
   2. Pre event symptom check process
   3. Parent ticket info, if available
   4. Race area requirements, i.e. lift loading guides, indoor facility information, virtual awards links (physical awards prohibited), team captains meeting platform (link not necessary on the race announcement), race document delivery process (start lists, ref reports, results).
   5. Area ROL to be attached
   6. Other required reminders:
      1. athlete responsibility for equipment rules (222.1)
      2. face coverings required (223.1.1)
      3. team inspection times will be utilized
      4. physical scoreboard prohibited
      5. team areas will be available above the start for athletes and coaches only.

The Far West Masters Scholarship Program is now in our 30th year of raising funds to benefit Far West Junior ski racers. Over that time period we have awarded more than $1,000,000 in scholarship funds. There is no overhead. We are an incorporated 501(c)(3) public charity tax exempt organization.

Our goal is to promote academic scholarship, citizenship and leadership within the ski racing community. It is also our goal to keep athletes involved in ski racing that might not otherwise have a chance without our financial support. We believe keeping athletes involved in ski racing keeps them focused, teaches discipline and helps them to be successful in the rest of their life endeavors.

We have some items that have been donated by Far West Ski Team Alumni as well as our local ski shops that are available for purchase to support our program. Additionally, we have items that are available at no cost to any Far West athlete that is in need of this equipment and will use it. This includes several US Ski Team Men’s large and extra-large Jackets, SL shin guards and GS forearm guards these are all slightly used, but the jackets would be good for gate bashing and the guards are all quite functional.  Please contact Eddie Mozen at [email protected] if you are interested in purchasing or obtaining any of these items. For the “for sale” items any and all bids will be entertained!

Link to pictures of items listed below.

1) New Uvex SL Helmet size small (52-55cm) suggested opening bid $50

2) Spyder grey puffy lightweight US Ski Team Jacket. Almost new size XL suggested opening bid $50

3) Spyder grey puffy hooded medium weight US Ski Team Jacket. Almost new size Large suggested opening bid $75

4) Spyder US Ski Team race suit. “Captain America” slightly used size large suggested opening bid $100

5) New US Ski Team pink zip hoodie, medium weight size women size medium. Suggested opening bid $50

6) New US Ski Team Pink medium weight jacket with hood. Women’s size 14 (medium) suggested opening bid $150

7) Spyder stealth padded upper body garment suggested opening bid $20

8) Back pack made by Level. Suggested opening bid $25

     MARCE HERZ FOUNDATION SCHOLARSHIP

    APPLICATION GUIDE 2020

The Marce Herz Foundation bears the name of an extraordinary individual, Marcelle (“Marce”) Barkley Herz.  Marce, a track and field world record holder, champion amateur skier, and co-founder of the Sky Tavern Jr. Ski Program, was also a teacher who believed that sports were good for everyone, but especially children, and that all children should get the opportunity to ski (and now snowboard) regardless of a child’s race or economic status.  Marce also believed in the power of sports and academics to uplift and motivate children.  She became the first woman to receive the Sportsmen (Sportswoman) of the Year Award from the Nevada Sportswriters Association.  Marce made contributions in our community to youth, teaching, journalism, skiing, sports, and the skiing community.  Once young people, particularly young women and girls, discover the life, times and achievements of Marce Herz, they are usually moved and motivated to strive for excellence.  It is a privilege to be able to provide a scholarship in her honor. 

To learn more, go to www.marceherz.org

Completed applications are due to The Far West Skiing Office by Tuesday, December 15th at 5:00pm. Applications must be submitted via the Far West Skiing website (www.fwskiing.org). There will be two (2) scholarships (one to a female and to a male athlete) at $1,000 each, awarded for the 20-21 season by the Marce Herz Foundation. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

A complete application includes:

1. Written response to Biographical Sketch listed below.
2. Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are required. One letter should be from the athlete’s club or coach. The other letter should be from a teacher, academic advisor, or community leader. Letters should focus on sportsmanship, leadership, work ethic, community service, and obstacles or personal difficulties you have overcome. Letters of recommendation from a parent will not be considered. (.txt, .doc, .docx, .jpg .pdf accepted)
3. A copy of your most recent report card from school. If not in school, please explain your circumstances. (.txt, .doc, .docx, .jpg, .pdf accepted) 
4. Two photos of the applicant. One head and shoulders and one action shot. (.jpg or .bmp accepted)

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH - essay answer
To be answered via essay format during the online application:

1. Marce embodied dedication, self-discipline and integrity with her personal strengths. How do you see yourself incorporating these ideals in your life and education/athletic goals?
2. What is it about ski racing that excites you?
3. What are your ski racing objectives for the coming year?
4. Ski racing is expensive for all, why are you in need of financial assistance?
5. What else are you doing to help support your ski racing?
6. What other funding resources do you receive through sponsorships or scholarships?
7. Tell us of your ski racing accomplishments; include any titles, honors or special awards you have received.
8. How do you combine education with ski racing?
9. What are your educational goals?
10. How do you give back to your community?
11. In what other sports, activities or hobbies do you participate?

Applications and the information therein is for the exclusive use of the Marce Herz Foundation Scholarship Committee only and will not be used for any purpose other than the award of scholarships, except the use of photos for possible associated publication.  The Marce Herz Foundation requests a mid/late-season update by the applicant on their race season by March 1

Applications will be reviewed and scholarships awarded by January 5, 2021. Funds for successful applicants shall be distributed by the Far West Skiing office.

Applications must be received via the Far West Website (www.fwskiing.org), no later than Tuesday, December 15th by 5:00pm.
Click here to apply for the Marce Herz Foundation Scholarship

Dave Van Ruiten Memorial Scholarship  2020-21

The Far West Board of Directors will once again offer the Far West Skiing - Dave Van Ruiten* Memorial Scholarship for the 2020-21 ski season.  A $1000 fund is available from Far West Skiing.

The athlete chosen for this special award must be a U19+ for the coming season, and must have a legitimate chance of being selected to the United States Ski Team (USST), according to the judgment of the Far West Board, based on the athlete’s national junior FIS ranking in one or more disciplines. Applicants must be members in good standing with Far West Skiing. In the event the Far West Board believes multiple athletes meet the appropriate criteria, they will look to financial need to assist in the final decision process.

To apply for this scholarship, all applicants must complete and submit an application (online at www.fwskiing.org). Applicants must be prepared to submit responses to the questions below, 2 letters of recommendation, your most recent report card, 2 photos (1 head and shoulders and one action shot). All applications must be received by December 15th at 5:00pm. No applications will be accepted late, and incomplete applications will not be considered.

The yearly amount of the Daven Van Ruiten Scholarship is set by the Far West Board of Directors at their annual budgeting meeting.
The Far West Skiing Board of Directors will announce the recipients of this scholarship on its website by January 1, 2021.

Questions regarding this scholarship can be directed to the Far West Skiing office, 530.559.4130 or [email protected].

* Dave Van Ruiten, former Director of Racing at Sugar Bowl Resort, passed away on November 7, 2005.  He was the former Vice President of Far West Skiing, a tremendous leader and asset to junior ski racing in this region, and a highly respected professional.  He was instrumental in Sugar Bowl’s commitment and rise to national ski racing prominence over the past several years.  This special scholarship award to a Far West athlete with USST potential and financial need is named in his honor.

A complete application includes:
1.    Written response to Biographical Sketch listed below.
2.   Letters of Recommendation: Two letters are required. One letter should be from the athlete’s club or coach. The other letter should be from a teacher, academic advisor, or community leader. Letters should focus on sportsmanship, leadership, work ethic, community service, and obstacles or personal difficulties you have overcome. Letters of recommendation from a parent will not be considered. (.txt, .doc, .docx, .jpg accepted) 
3.  A copy of your most recent report card from school. If not in school, please explain your circumstances. (.txt, .doc, .docx, .jpg accepted)
4.  Two photos of the applicant. One head and shoulders and one action shot.

BIOGRAPHICAL SKETCH - essay answer
To be answered via essay format during the online application:

1. What is it about ski racing that excites you?             
2. What are your ski racing objectives for the coming year? 
3. Ski racing is expensive for all, why are you in need of financial assistance?
4. What else are you doing to help support your ski racing?
5. What other funding resources do you receive through sponsorships or scholarships?
6. Tell us of your ski racing accomplishments; include any titles, honors or special awards you have received.
7. How do you combine education with ski racing?
8. What are your educational goals?
9. In what other sports, activities or hobbies do you participate?

Applications and the information therein are for the exclusive use of the Dave Van Ruiten Memorial Scholarship Committee only and will not be used for any purpose other than the award of scholarships, except the use of photos for possible associated publication.

Applications must be received via the Far West Website (www.fwskiing.org), no later than December 15th by 5:00pm.
Click here to apply for the Dave Van Ruiten Memorial Scholarship.

Based on recommendations during Covid-19 restrictions, the Far West will return to a permanent race bib for the 2021 season. This bib is a required purchase for North Series U10 and U12s, California Challenge Series U14's plus U16 and older athletes. Central and South Series athletes will only need to purchase a bib for their age class championships. Tahoe Race Series athletes will continue to obtain their bib from their program.

Bibs will be distributed to programs and coaches will be able to provide bibs at the beginning of your age competition season. Each age class is assigned a bib color and athletes are required to bring their bib to each race in order to participate.

pink: U10 girls
royal blue: U10 boys
white: U12 girls
Orange: U12 boys
Black: U14 girls
Yellow: U14 boys
Red: U16+ girls
Navy Blue: U16+ boys

Click here to fill out your bib order form which will finalize with a paypal link for payment. 

Questions can be directed to the Far West Office at 530.559.4130 or [email protected]

Due to COVID-19 Alpine Officials and Referee exams will not be provided until the health situation changes to more favorable place. Unfortunately, there will be no exceptions to this policy.  Please use the best possible people to serve your events and be sure to provide access to training materials like the AO Manual and the Specialty Study Guides for each.   It is all of our responsibility to make sure that all parties assigned in an official capacity have appropriate time to learn their position, the requirements of the position and how to execute the position. In effect studying the material so as prepared to complete a successful exam.

The following are available for the 2021 Season:

1. Online Competition Official (CO) certification and required quiz. This is currently available in pdf version and will be available online very soon. This is the entry level course in order to become any certified official.

2. Continue Education (Alpine Update and Review) virtual clinics will be avaiable in the Far West on the following dates:
     Friday, November 13, 2020 at 6:30 pm (taught by Lucy Conklin)
     Sunday, November 15, 2020 at Noon (taught by Lisa Powell)
     Tuesday, November 17, 2020 at 8:30am (taught by Mike Ginsberg)
These clinics will last between 2 and 2.5 hours via Zoom platform. You will need to sign up at a minimum of 48 hours prior to the event in order to receive the Zoom link to participate. You will need to make sure you have a solid internet connection and keep your camera on throughout the clinic.

Officials whose last clinic attendance was Season 2019 MUST attend a Continuing Education Clinic prior to officiating during the 2021 season. 
Click here to sign up for Alpine Review and Update Virtual Clinics in November.

3. US Technical Delegates Workshop is an annual requirement of all US TD's. This will also be via Zoom platform and will last approximately 4 hours.  There are two date options for this course in the Far West Division: Saturday, November 14th at 8:30am (taught by Lucy Conklin) and Friday, December 4th at 5:00pm (taught by Phil GilanFarr). TD's will not need to attend the continuing education course above as the review and update for TD's is included in this event.
This workshop is also for any TD candidates, must have prior approval from Far West Office.
TD's will be required to sign up at a minimum of 72 hours prior to the event so that they can complete and turn in their homework prior to the event.
Click here to sign up for the TD Workshop

All course study guides are available on the Far West Officials page for studying and preparing for future examination opportunities.

Attention Far West U12 Families!

Have you received your Far West Development Initiative athlete book? If you are a new Far West U12 Family you should have received one during the first few weeks of team. If you have not received yours then please reach out to your head coach or program director immediatley. 

If you are a Far West Family with athletes in a different age class this book is still extremely helpful to you and your athlete and is available to you to order too.

Want to know a little bit more about the Development Initiative? Take a moment to check out this short clip on what it is, why it is important and how to use it in the development of your athlete for years to come! Click here to see what it's all about!

Still have questions? Please check out the FWDI section of the Far West Skiing Webpage or give us a call in the Far West Office!

Cheers to a great season!
Far West Skiing
PO Box 2664
Truckee, Ca 96160
530.559.4130