Speed Skiing Season Opens

The FIS sanctioned speed skiing events opened recently with a dual run meet for men and women at Sun Peaks Resort in Canada. Tracie Sachs of the U.S. had the top speed in both women’s runs, attaining 165 km/hr on her first run. In the men’s competition, Simone Origone of Italy also scored a double with a top speed of 168 km/hr.

Speed skiing is the art of going downhill through a straight measured course with the object of attaining the highest speed possible. Speed skiing is known as the fastest non-motorized sport in the world and the world record is over 150 mph. The sport was accepted as a demonstration event in the 1992 Winter Games in Albertville, France.

FIS speed skiing events are held late in winter because wetter snow holds less friction. However, two of the six scheduled FIS meets for this year have been cancelled or are on hold at this time. Check the FIS calendar for further updates.