Race Skills for Alpine Skiing is an instructional book that teaches skiers to become racers and racers to become champions. It provides a wealth of information for aspiring racers as well as experienced competitors. It can stand alone or be a next-in-a-series book to follow Technical Skills for Alpine Skiing. Very few books about how to ski race have ever been written. None cover the many aspects of the different alpine race disciplines in such a clear and organized way. Distinct chapters cover Giant Slalom, Slalom, and the speed events of Super-G and Downhill. The reader learns about race technique as well as tactics: where to turn in a race course. The Preface of Race Skills for Alpine Skiing is written by 1994 Olympic Downhill champion, Tommy Moe. He is pictured on the cover of the book.
Race Skills for Alpine Skiing begins with a description of turn technique that sets the foundation for subsequent chapters. It contains an explanation of precise turns, a description of body movement and ski action, and a list of turn characteristics. Throughout the book, action photographs of junior champions provide exemplary images for readers to study. They show, among other things, the layout of different gate (two-pole) combinations along with the racer's position in relation to the gates. Numerous diagrams depict official gate dimensions, gate combinations, how to set courses and the racer's optimal path through a course.
Giant Slalom, Slalom and speed event chapters are organized into topics that relate to skill development, gate drills, course description and tactics. The skill development segment is designed to enhance race performance through the development of technique. Gate drills further improve skill development and help skiers learn how to determine their path through a course. The layout of race courses, specific to each event, is thoroughly covered.
The detailed table of contents makes this book an excellent resource piece. The glossary helps readers better understand the terminology specific to ski racing.
Equipment especial to racing is discussed and safety concerns are addressed. The appendix covers a topical issue concerning ski helmets.
For skiers of any age who ponder over the confusion of Slalom poles while watching a World Cup race on television, this book will clarify race courses and explain the rules. It is a perfect book to read by the fireside in anticipation of heading up the mountain the next morning.
