When joining a new program, there are many questions that you will have. Parents and more seasoned skiers are always a wonderful resource. But, it you are uncomfortable asking, or just aren't sure what questions you should be asking, this page should serve as a guideline to assist you in finding the answer to your questions quickly and easily. Even seasoned skiers forget where to find information every now and then!
Q: What do I need to do right away?
A: The first things you need to do is join PARA and USSA. Keep in mind that you should join both of these organizations right away. If you don't make their early deadline you will pay a late fee (which is usually an additional $25 for PARA).
Q: What is PARA?
A: PARA stands for the Pennsylvania Alpine Racing Association. In order to compete in Pennsylvania, you must become a member - even if you live in another state! If you ski for Camelback, you must join PARA.
Q: How do I join PARA?
A: It's very easy! Simply click on the link below which will take you to the PARA website. On the left side of their site, you will find a heading for Application. Complete the application online, print it out, and mail it to PARA with the required fee. www.paracing.org or click here to go directly to the Application.
Q: Do I have to join USSA?
A: Yes! Any skier in the United States who wishes to compete must become a member of the United States Ski Association.
Q: How do I join USSA?
A: Simple...just click on the link below and you will be taken directly to the USSA website. Look for the membership link, complete the form online, print it out, and send it in with the required fee. You can mail or fax your application directly to USSA. If you fax it, don't forget to include your credit card information. www.ussa.org.
Q: How long will it take before I receive my USSA membership card and information?
A: You will receive your USSA card and guidelines within a few weeks.
Q: What do I do with the cards when I get them?
A:PARA and USSA cards must be presented at each race that you attend. In some cases, the mountain hosting the race will keep your cards as collateral for the racing bib you are required to wear while racing. If you don't turn your bib back in, you don't get your cards back and can be assessed a fee (and you can't race anywhere else until you have your cards!).
Q: Ok, so now I've joined PARA and USSA and I'm ready to race, right?
A: Almost! Now you have to send in your applications and fees to each of the races that you want to be included in.
Q: How do I find out the racing schedule?
A: The first thing you want to do is check out the RACING SCHEDULE on PARA's website. Once you click on "racing schedule" you want to next click on "Eastern" races. Scroll down the page and you will see all of the information you need...dates, name of races, locations, deadlines, contact information. But, before you send in your entry form and check, you should ask your coach(es) which races they're planning on attending. Sometimes there's a race in the area that they don't want you to attend.
Q: Once I find the list of races, how do I know where to send my entry form and check?
A:PARA's website will give you all of the information you need. First, you need to check on the RACE ENTRY link on their website. That will bring you to a screen which you need to fill out. Be sure to fill in all of the information (except for the bottom section which the race secretary uses to make notations). Then print out enough copies for all of the races you will be entering. The race schedule part of the website lists the date, name of race, entry fee, deadline, and contact to mail your entry form and check to. Make sure you check PARA's website regularly - sometimes there are changes due to weather conditions. You don't want to show up for a race that's been cancelled!
Q: What happens if I send in a check but don't make it to the race?
A: Most ski clubs do not cash checks for any skiers who do not show up. Others may cash the check depending upon circumstances.
Q: What happens when we get to the race?
A: Check with your coach the day before a race to see what time they want you there and where you will meet. Usually, we sit together so that the coaches always know where to find you.
Q: Do I have to register when I arrive at the mountain hosting a race?
A: Absolutely! Plan to be there early! In most cases, registration opens between 7:00 and 7:30 a.m. Remember, you'll need to present your USSA/PARA cards. Also, you may have to purchase lift tickets separately. Check with the registration table BEFORE you purchase lifttickets. Most mountains offer lift tickets at a reduced rate for skiers and parents but usually you purchase them at the registration table.
Q: What happens once I'm all registered and have my lift tickets?
A: You need to pay close attention to your coaches. They will tell you what time to be on the mountain ready to go. You will have some practice time to get warmed up and then you will meet for course inspection. You don't want to miss this or to be late!
Q: What is course inspection?
A: Course inspection is a time when you will traverse slowly down the trail to look at the course and commit it to memory. You want to remember where the gates are placed and if there are any places you need to be especially careful of. You will review the course with your teammates and coaches only.
Q: Can my parents come with me during course inspection?
A:Absolutely not! This is a time for coaches and skiers only. Your parents are welcome to watch the race from the sidelines, but at no point are they allowed on the course.
Q: How can my parents help the coaches? A: Parents can help by making sure kids are where they are supposed to be at the correct times! Parents can also help by carrying jackets and ski pants down the mountain and giving them to kids who have just finished racing. This will help keep kids warm!
Q: What if I think the coach should be doing something else - like applying wax to my kid’s skis?
A: Please read Race Day Tips for Parents! Parents should remember that the coaches are in charge and are doing their jobs! Please keep in mind that there are a lot of kids to handle and the coaches have their hands full. Coaches are the experts and, while you may not agree with everything they do, they are doing the best job for your kids and are following acceptable coaching guidelines! Remember to thank them at the end of the day!!
Q: Ok, so now I have everything I need except equipment. What do I need?
A: Equipment depends on your age level. USSA has very strict guidelines for ski equipment based on age. Visit the USSA website, www.ussa.org regularly to check on ski length limitations, helmet specifications, and boot restrictions. Your coaches are extremely knowledgeable resources but you should always check the USSA website.
Q: Do I need a racing suit?
A: Many younger skiers like racing suits because they fit in with everyone else. Older racers definitely need a racing suit.
Q: What ski clothing should I get?
A: Skiers will wear whatever they need to stay warm at the start of a race. They could be waiting for awhile before their number gets called. Almost all skiers wear ski suits so once a skier gets in line to start the race they will have to take their clothing off. Most clothing can come right off but if your ski pants don’t have zippers then the ski boots have to come off at the starting line. This is not a good idea. So make sure the skier has zip off ski pants to make getting ready on race day easy.
Q: Do I need shin pads and pole guards?
A: J3 skiers and higher definitely should have this equipment. J4’s and J5’s should be concentrating on their skiing technique as opposed to equipment so this equipment is not really needed at their level.
Q: CAT Team Information
A: Visit this website often for all of the Camelback Ski Team information that you need.
"A champion is afraid of losing. Everyone else is afraid of winning." ~ Billie Jean King
