Why do we humans love sports so much? Sports create bonds of friendship and camaraderie between us, and lasting memories. They teach us lessons that can be applied to living healthier and more productive lives. That’s why it’s so important that children participate in sports whether it’s baseball, soccer, or ski racing. In the High Country of North Carolina, we have thriving ski racing programs for kids, thanks to ski resorts like Appalachian Ski Mtn, Ski Beech, and Sugar Mountain.

The High Country Junior Race Series, started in 1984 as a friendly competition between junior skiers from the then four area ski resorts bringing together junior athletes to participate in a series of races held at each ski area. At each race, medals are awarded to the top three finishers among the boys and girls in each age group. Cumulative points are awarded to each racer and carry over from each race to the Championships, where trophies are also awarded to racers with the most points for the season. A team trophy awarded to the team from the ski area with the most points for the season.

DAN BLACKWELDER