December 22, 2018 (Craftsbury, Vermont) – Over 300 skiers from throughout the US and Canada traveled to Craftsbury for the opening Eastern Cup race of the 2018-2019 season.  Despite the unfortunate warm weather of the past days the grooming staff was able to provide racers with a fair track for the mornings qualification.  During the course of the morning the temperature dropped 20 degrees allowing water to drain from the snow and make a fast surface.

The afternoon was full of heat action – starting with Masters, then Open (which included junior and senior skiers), then U16 and U18/U20’s.  Callie Young of Dartmouth was the top female junior while Ben Ogden was the top male junior and 4th overall. Julia Kern (SMS T2) topped the Open Women’s field while Daniel Strienz (NMU) was fastest in the Open Men’s race.

Competitors, coaches and spectators were as excited to kick off the competitive season as they were to welcome the more seasonable temperatures and the return of a gentle snowfall.  The races were augmented with the rich voice and historic commentary of Peter Graves.

Tomorrow’s Freestyle Race has been changed to an interval start due to snow conditions – stay tuned to the VTCM for start lists and updates.  See you tomorrow.

Results here.