Season Wrap Up

That’s a wrap on the 2024 GDHL season! Thanks to all of our racers for bringing your best to the hill every race!

In this newsletter:

• Season Results

• Thank you Sponsors!

• Banquet Recap

• Club Championships

• Bib Drop Off

• GDHL SHWAG!

• Coat Purchase

• Feedback - we value it!

Season Results

Full results for the 2024 season can be found here.

Team Results

1st - Venture – 6040 points

Owners: Christine Ottaway and consortium

• Stephen Jarvis

• Robert Burnes

• Craig Sievenpiper

• Kim Westlake

• Meghan Barber

• Marc Warren

• Geoff Matthews

• Ethan Eakins

• Keegan Irwin

• Ed Barnicke

• Brook Dyson

• Tom Murdison

• Griffin Copp

2nd - Vortex – 5898 points

Owner: Peter Popalis

• Susie Raymond

• David Staples

• Peter Ashworth

• Gordon Jennings

• Jeff Sutherland

• Chad Westlake

• Paul Peterson

• Petey Popalis

• Alex Addison

• Richard Sultmanis

• Joey Hill

• Noah Levine

• Ben Williams

3rd - Zipper – 5824 points

Owner: Jennifer Bellamy and consortium

• Peri Wiseman

• Brian Holland

• James Mathers

• Elizabeth Hind

• Jenn Price

• Mario Skopek

• Kellis Malcolm

• Sarunas Lenauskas

• Matthew Staples

• Cam Bellamy

• Robert Prusinski

• Aidan Turnbull

• Mike Welton

Individual Results

Male 

• 1st - Griffin Copp and Mike Welton – TIED

• 3rd - Ben Williams

Female

• 1st - Meg Ryley

• 2nd - Katie Farrow

• 3rd - Cheryl McConachie

Male 50+

• 1st - Jeff Sutherland

• 2nd - Greg Cavers

• 3rd - Allan LaChance

Female 50+

• 1st - Kate Veer

• 2nd - Susie Raymond

• 3rd - Sam Callow

Greg "Sumo" Lee – Most Improved

• 1st - Drew Clark – 190 points increase

• 2nd - Robbie Bruce – 138 points increase

• 3rd - Jake Sheehan – 135 points increase

Fastest Family

1st - Bruce Brothers

Gord/Fraser – 4th/8th

2nd - Gust Brothers

Austin/Dylan – 5th/20th

3rd - Mistaya Homes

Mike Welton / Meg Barber – 1st/31st

4th  - Veer Family

Jack/Kate – 10th/45th

Approximately 33 families!

5 families of 3 or more

If you are a team owner of a top three team OR were smart enough to buy back in as a racer, your share of the winnings have already been sent to accounting for processing. Look for the credit on your account in the weeks ahead. Enjoy!

Rivalry Cup

Cheryl McConachie vs Mackenzie Irwin

Thank you Sponsors!

Once again - thank you to our wonderful sponsors! You help us put on the best season that we can. We appreciate your assistance with largest adult ski racing league in the province.

If you’re interested in joining this great group of sponors for the 2025 season, please let us know gdhl@gdhl.org. We are looking for assistance with putting on all of our events and races. It’s a great way to get in front of an audience of hardcore and not-so-hardcore adult racers.

• Sutherland Insurance

• Raymond James Canada

• Lysander Funds

• Squire John’s

• Erinwood Ford

• Lange/Dynastar

• Sidelaunch Brewery

• Spy Distillery

• Nicholas Pearce Wines
  
  
  

Banquet Recap

What a night! Thanks to Paul, Brook, Richard, Chris, Carrie, Meg, and Mike for taking us through the festivities of the evening. We had over 200 racers, fans, groupies, coaches, and Coyotes in attendance on Saturday night. Everyone was celebrating everything GDHL!

Special thanks to JF Courville for presenting the Greg “Sumo” Lee Award and to James Mathers for presenting the Rivalry Cup. Racers new and veteran appreciated you keeping the stories behind these awards alive. Big shout out to Drew Clark for winning the Sumo, and Mackenzie and Cheryl for duking it out!

2024 was a record-breaking season with record-breaking social events. We look forward to seeing you in 2025!

Club Championships

Congratulations to all of our GDHL’ers that competed in the Club Champs this past weekend. One more chance at glory!

Full results can be found here.

Bib Drop Off

Remember to drop off your bibs at the Race Office in the Depot. If we don’t have your bib your account will be charged.

GDHL SHWAG

Fresh off the boat from halfway around the world - your 2024 GDHL Bags! Global shipping lanes may be hard to navigate right now, but our gear finally made it.

Drop by the Depot or Lodge on Saturday/Sunday and look for your friendly GDHL Committee Member. We will be there to hand them out.

Shoot us an email at gdhl@gdhl.org if you will not be picking up a bag for yourself. We have more racers than anticipated this pre-season, so we may not be able to accommodate all racers.

Feedback

We value your feedback! If there is any way that we can make the GDHL better for the 2025 season, please send us your thoughts at gdhl@gdhl.org

See you next season!

Your GDHL Committee 2024:

• Brook Dyson

• Meg Ryley

• Carrie L

• Michael Deangelis

• Chris Knight

• Richard Usher-Jones

• Peter Dyson

• Paul Peterson

Offseason Training Ideas

Looks like we have run out of room for 2024… but our Instagram account is always looking content to post!

The Banquet Is Here

The much-anticipated end of season banquet is here on Saturday! Get ready for awards, recognition, stories, and good times!

In this newsletter:

Dual Slalom Recap

Dual Slalom Results

Final Results???

Banquet Details

Sponsors

Bib Drop Off

Adult Race Training

Club Championships Details

Race #7 Recap- Big Dual on Little John

Remember that time Canadian Olympic skier Phil Brown showed up to the GDHL dual slalom, jumped into the race last second, mashed every gate and left the crowd speechless? Yeah, that was pretty rad. It’s just how we roll in the GDHL, you gotta show up because you never know what’s gonna happen, any given Sunday baby! And big props to Meg Ryley who took on the Olympian and skied superbly herself.

There was lots on the line at the final GDHL race of the season (I know, say it ain’t so). Skiers were fired up! None more than Jeff Sutherland who has a pre-race routine like no other. Talk about beast mode, in Jeff’s mind, he’s going to win the damn race or go down hard trying. He lays it out there every race, an inspiration for the rest of us!

Big questions would be answered this week, Would Griffin Copp remain on top? Could Jack Veer, Eric Sultmanis or Tom Murdison ski the lights out and disrupt the top 10? Would team Vortex keep the top spot? Could Team Comet find some of their missing skiers? Actually, there were several teams prepared to put up ‘missing persons’ posters around the club to help find their racers, just saying.

Ok, here’s how it went down (and how some of you went down). Mike Welton put on another Mike Welton-like performance, making it look easy for another GDHL victory, this guy is just plain f#@&;ing fast! Ben Williams crushed both of his runs for a solid 2nd place finish. He also notably crushed beers at Saturday’s Apres (now that’s how it’s done buddy!). And how about Jack Veer with a super impressive 3rd place result, inching out Austin Gust and Gordon Bruce who rounded out the top 5. Well done you fast people!

The Dual wasn’t without a few good falls and thankfully no ambulances (this week at least). Joey Hill had a ‘whaaa happened’ expression on his face after he did a spin, straddle and roll move (all very gracefully actually), but he bounced back nicely on his second run. And him along with Mark Shillum, Brent Robbins, Gordon Levitt, Meghan Robinson, Lauren Hitchman, Jerry Patten, Robert Bruce, Peter Copp, Richard Lavery, Jamie Bruce, Andrew Ottaway, Trevor Jackson, Justin Burul, Riley Keast, Jon Price, Alex Addison, Douglas Mac Con, Susie Raymond and Pete Dyson (Jeez that’s a long list!) all had something in common- they took advantage of the Pete Dyson rule (which Pete made when the forerunners were skiing). What’s the Pete Dyson rule you ask? Simple, if you bail on one of your runs, you take the run you complete, double it, divide by your age, multiply by your opponent’s second run, add a second, have a cup of coffee, divide that by how many sips you took and voila, there is your time. Just trust us people.

Other notables, Sarunas Lenauskas skied like a Rockstar, his two runs were almost identical (off by only .01 of a second!). Perhaps he had some of the protein/electrolyte-packed special Elixir at the top of the hill and he wouldn’t be the only racer who enjoyed a few mouthfuls of that fiery punch to give themselves an extra boost. How about Warren Pearce, another picture of consistency, he has found his racing groove this year with a nice finish to the season. Jake Sheehan deserves a shout out, two smoking runs, ask him how long he’s been racing? Never mind, it will only depress you, he’s only been on skis a short while (one of them athlete types). And Roger Chiu had his mojo working with two fine looking runs, nice job (was it the Elixir, Roger?).

Some of the ladies really showed off their skills in the dual! Samantha Callow and Susie Raymond both felt the need for speed, woohoo well done. Elizabeth Hind, Andrea McLorie, Aisling Lanigan all posting sweet looking times. And it seems every race there is that moment when people say, ‘who is that person with the early bib number totally crushing it? Oh yeah, it’s Kate Veer’. Always a pleasure to watch. And Carrie Lenauskas layed down two very impressive runs, wow apparently she’s not just the bartender people! Then there is Cheryl Mcconachie, has she ever had a bad race? She blazes!

Well, that’s a wrap on the season. But not quite, because we got the banquet folks! Let’s be honest, half the reason most of us are in the GDHL is for the beers, the chats, meeting new people, it’s pretty awesome. It gives us some purpose at the club (besides dragging kids or grandkids to their lessons). The point being, get your ass to the banquet! And be prepared for the big reveal! (it’s more anticipated than the Bachelor finale). Did you notice how this update didn’t reveal the overall winners? You’re catching on. See everyone Saturday.

Mike D

Dual Slalom Results

Click here to see your times.

First column is red course, second column is blue course. If you had a DNF or DQ, that run was scored as your other run with a one second penalty.

Final results in finish order for the Dual Slalom will be available on Saturday night when final results are published.

Final Results

Final results for the season will be updated after the awards ceremony on Saturday night!

Banquet Details

Oscar, Emmy, Grammy, Sumo, The Team Ski, and even Calcutta.

Awards season is here! We’ll be handing out a few of these, along with Individual Winners, Most Improved (The Greg Lee “Sumo” Award), Fun Awards, Team Awards, Fastest Family Awards, Calcutta Results, and more!

Keep your Ladies Day streak rolling and/or celebrate your big Club Champs finish!

When: Saturday, March 2nd  7pm - until all the fun has been had

Where: The Depot

Why: Celebrate the season and give out all the awards - serious and fun!

Who: GDHL'ers, Family, Fans, Coyotes & Coaches 

Bring Your Own Wine and GDHL will pick up the corkage tab! Be like Barnicke last year and bring a cooler full for the team! 

Transportation after the event will be available.  No drinking and driving please.  

Sponsors

Thanks again to all of our 2024 sponsors! You have helped us put on a record-breaking season. THANK YOU!

• Sutherland Insurance

• Raymond James Canada

• Lysander Funds

• Squire John’s

• Erinwood Ford

• Lange/Dynastar

• Sidelaunch Brewery

• Spy Distillery

• Nicholas Pearce Wines

Bib Drop Off

If you have not yet returned your bib, please do so at the Race Office. You will need a whole different bib for club championships.

Message from Glenn Blaylock, Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

To prepare for Club Championships we will be training Giant Slalom this Friday, morning, and Slalom in the afternoon. Check the white board at National Chair for the training hill.  The morning session starts at 9:30. The afternoon session starts at 1 pm.

Coach’s Tip: Skis properly waxed will improve your race results. Many adult racers enjoy the process of tuning their skis, becoming 'one with the ski'. Excellent videos demonstrating how to tune and wax your skis can be viewed through this module. https://medium.com/@lockgc/ski-tuning-ba91553cf61c  

 Thank you for slipping the course and helping the coaches remove the race gates at the end of the training session.

 Ski with Purpose

 Glenn

Craigleith Club Championships Information

Saturday March 2nd

*GDHL participants are automatically registered* DO NOT CLICK the link if you are a current racer. (YES - this newsletter goes far and wide, beyond just GDHL racers!)

Click Here if you are not a GDHL racer and wish to register. Registration will close Thursday February 29th at noon.

ALL GDHL RACERS NEED TO PICK UP A BIB. This is different from your GDHL bib.

** NEW BIB PICK UP LOCATION ** starting at 8:00 am in the Depot lower lobby area.

GS Race Hill: Big John

• Inspection: 8:40 – 9:10am

• Start: 9:30am

• Adults will go first, followed by U16+ - Separate courses

SL Race Hill: Big John

1. Inspection: 12:10 – 12:40pm

2. Start: 1:00pm

3. Adults will go first, followed by U16+ - Separate courses

Awards will be Sunday March 3rd on the Base Lodge patio

See you at the Banquet!

Your GDHL 2024 Committee:

• Brook Dyson

• Michael DeAngelis

• Meg Ryley

• Chris Knight

• Carrie L.

• Paul Peterson

• Peter Dyson

• Richard Usher-Jones

Apres Your Way Into The Dual Slalom

This weekend sees our last race of the 2024 GDHL season! Saturday Apres followed by the Sunday Dual Slalom.

In this newsletter:

• Race #6 Recap

• Standings Update

• Apres - Saturday in North Lodge

• Dual Slalom - Sunday on Little John

• Bib Return

• Banquet Tickets on sale Now!

• Adult Race Training

Race 6 Recap- Who’s Afraid of Little John? (Apparently 55 of you!)

Nerves were high and racers were rightly concerned mid-week as they anxiously checked their weather apps, looking ahead to the potentially sloppy conditions for Race #6. GDHL’rs have been known to handle sketchy conditions over the years, but their fear this week that Little John would turn in mogul alley, had many racers questioning whether it was worth it. And yet 106 racers overcame those fears and showed up, because hey, it’s freaking Little John people!

The race got off to a tricky start with the Little John chair line once again wreaking havoc on racer punctuality. GDHL’rs clearly didn’t learn from the night race (and fair enough their thoughts are mostly consumed with whether they’re getting a free beer ticket or not). Vern Gomes and Andrew Turnbull were on the chair when they saw bib numbers past their own already on course and that’s when the chair came to a complete stop, so they settled in and got a great view of a few more racers. Both used that knowledge, eventually got on course, and skied nice runs.

The anxiety our racers felt pre-race turned out to be much ado about nothing, as the course didn’t turn into the terrain park some thought it might (fertilizer for the win!) and we were treated to some superb skiing from skiers like Mike Wellton who crushed it, taking the podium and now sits in 2 nd place just behind Griffin Copp (who also had an outstanding race)in the overall standings, setting up a potentially fun and nail-biting finish to the season in the dual!

And speaking of crushing it, Chris Knight had his best finish of the season coming ahead of some of his key rivals with a second run of 22.45. No wonder he had a glow on at the ‘Fire and Ice’ Fundraiser, never mind, that was just the fireball shots. Meg Ryley was the top female finisher and showed us once again why her photo is sported proudly on the Craigleith racer hall of fame. Paul Petersen’s photo is not, but don’t let that fool you, he’s skiing very consistently this season, well done Paul you are officially no longer part of the ‘shitty people’! And did anyone notice Robert Peerenboom on course this weekend? How could you not in that outfit, and he showed those gates whose boss by crushing every one of them! He will tell you he’s not happy with his time, but he was fun as hell to watch and his race times are destined to improve.

Mark Shillum at bib #42 continues his best GDHL season ever showing us he deserves more respect next season with his bib number (no problem Mark, we see you, we hear you, nothing less than bib #90 coming your way next year, and we can get you over #100 if you really finish strong this weekend!). Mike DeAngelis’s return to the GDHL has been a little underwhelming, but he’s out there battling at every race and has a potential top 80 finish in him, okay maybe a top 100 race is more realistic (and frankly he’ll need some no shows). Carrie Laurencelle’s steady improvement week after week is impressive, she’s getting the hang of this racing thing, now she just needs some slalom equipment so she can start Peerenbooming the gates (Carrie, just show this newsletter to Dan as proof if he gives you a hard time about your potential shopping spree at Squires). Jason Turnpenny (who’s name just frankly sounds fast and he proved it again this weekend) and his pal Mario Skopeck (I think we can all agree the GDHL is better off for having Mario in it) were both just happy the race was on Saturday and not Sunday as these gentlemen and their wives were the last standing at the Fundraiser. Hey, when the ladies wanna dance, they wanna dance! Some other notables, Graeme Blair (one of the hardest working racers on the hill!) had a great race with a killer 2 nd run, and Geoff Matthews coming off a tough fall in the Super G, put those demons behind him and skied like a champ, nice job Geoff. Riley Keast took more than a second off on his 2 nd try, watch out for him in the dual! Then there is Jenn Price, wow, slalom specialist, enough said. How about Stephen Jarvis this weekend? Great skiing Steve, we trust you called Doug to brag. And the strong sister duo of Meghan Robinson and Lauren Liberty both improved on their second runs (not easy to do people!) to finish very respectably. And Dave Robinson continues to fight the good fight every race and is looking better and better, you the man Dave! Ian ‘born to race’ Latimer laid down a super solid run and is quietly having himself a very nice GDHL season, but no surprise there.

This race recap can’t be complete without recognizing the Dyson brothers who continue to make their rivalry fun for the rest of us to watch. This time the younger Dyson, Pete Dyson, who must have had just a few more Wheaties in his bowl that morning, used his 2 nd run to best his older sibling, Brook Dyson by .05 seconds (hey that’s an eternity in ski racing!). Brook versus Pete in the dual, this needs to happen, just saying, give the fans what they want!

Okay, enough reminiscing about last race, it’s all about the dual slalom this coming Sunday. If you feel you haven’t lived up to your potential, you have one more chance for glory! Just try to relax, there’s nothing to worry about, sure it’s the busiest weekend of the year at the club which means the number of spectators might rival last year’s World Cup, but don’t worry about them, just go back to that calming thought that will put you in the zone, ‘I do this for the beer’.

-Mike D

Standings Update

Top five teams, with one race to go:

• 5766 - Vortex

• 5701 - Venture

• 5666 - Zipper

• 5579 - Landslide

• 5546 - National

The full standings through six races can be found here.

APRES - THIS SATURDAY! North Lodge!

Don't forget - the most happenin' Apres of the year - our BYOB Mid-Season APRES!  3:30pm-5:30pm in the North.  Put the skis away and head over to the North.

Nicholas Pearce (npwines.com) will be pouring some fine wines and we will have some ice cold Side Launch as well. North Lodge is BYOB, so feel free to bring another beverage if you would like. We will have some chips and pizza with a rockin' Spotify playlist. 

For the kids! The movie "Inside Out' will be playing on the big screen downstairs and we'll have crafts, drinks and snacks readily available. 

Get your rivalries in check for Sunday's Big Finale. This one is for all the glory and gloating!  We are taking rivalry requests at the Apres! Everyone will want to see if Mike Welton and Ben Williams race each other to continue on their season (read: life long) battle or if one of them will choose to race the young buck - Griffin Copp.  Will brothers Gordie and Fraser Bruce race each other for the ultimate family battle? Will Kate Veer accept Carrie Lenauskas' challenge (how about it, Kate?). 

This writer is also requesting that Brook and Pete Dyson race each other... things could get spic-y!

And the ultimate question - Will Dan Lacey and Trevor Jackson show up for their 1st start of the season on race #7?!?

So many unanswered questions. 

We can not wait to see everyone there!

-Carrie

Dual Slalom - Sunday 1pm

This weekend sees the return of the Dual Slalom on ‘Lil John. It’s time to put on a show for a packed-Long-Weekend-Craigleith. (That’s a subtle reminder to anticipate lift lines this weekend!)

The format for this year’s dual will mirror the 2023 version. Some notes:

You will start against the racer with the closest bib to you at the top of the course. (#1 vs #2, #3 vs #4, etc.) (with an exception noted below). If we are missing numbers, you will be assigned by a GDHL Committee Member to the next closest racer.

• We will be using our fancy new start gates, purchased with the assistance of the GDHL in 2022

• Sunday from 9:30 to 10:30, there will be a live demo of the start gates at the top of ‘Lil John. If you have never used these gates before we recommend you go and check out the demo.

• Each racer will have a run in the Blue and the Red course

• Combined time determines your finish placing for Race #7

• If you do not finish one of the runs, your total time will be your other run’s time with a penalty applied.

• If you do not finish both runs, you will be scored a DNF

• Due to time constraints brought on by scheduling, we will not have time for more than two runs.

• No need for full slalom gear, though some may prefer the added protection

If the excitement of the dual slalom is not enough, you also have the opportunity to race head to head with that one racer you have been looking to challenge all season long.   Put an end to all the trash talking and settle the score at the last race of the weekend.  And retain bragging rights for a full year!   If you would like to be matched up with a particular racer for the dual, please email cmknightrider@hotmail.com and look to have the starting list updated.   Your revised starting  position will be based off of the higher of the two bib numbers of the competing racers. (This is something new we are trying this season, so bear with us if we cannot accomodate 100% of the requests received.)

And if you don’t like where you bib number(s) places you, we have our last bib auction this weekend and with the dual format, you effectively get a 2 for 1 deal!   If you purchase bib 10 OR bid 20, you and your dual partner both get to enjoy the pleasure of almost "fresh race tracks".    And again, this auction supports a great cause with Craigleith Cares and includes a tax receipt.    Similar to previous weekends, the silent auction will take place from 1030-1130am in the Main Lodge Bar area – just look for the Craigleith Cares sign.

-Brook and Chris

Bib Return

Please remember to return your GDHL bib following your second run on Sunday. Those that do not return their bib will also have the opportunity to do so at the banquet. If your bib is not in our hands by the banquet, your account will be charged and your picture will be posted in the Big John start hut.

GDHL Banquet

We are entering Ray Murakami's favorite night of the year! The GDHL Banquet. Always a good time with food, beverages, music and oh... the AWARDS!   

When: Saturday, March 2nd  7pm - until all the fun has been had

Where: The Depot

Why: Celebrate the season and give out all the awards - serious and fun!

Who: GDHL'ers, Family, Fans, Coyotes & Coaches 

Tickets on sale now! Cheaper than last year as well!  (Thank you sponsors!) $75 - also Bring Your Own Wine and GDHL will pick up the corkage tab! Be like Barnicke last year and bring a cooler full for the team! 

Transportation after the event will be available.  No drinking and driving please.  

Tickets must be purchased by Saturday, February 24th.  We'll send out a reminder next week and on Instagram as well!

Tickets on sale now! Purchase on your account!

-Carrie

Message from Glenn Blaylock, Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

We will be training Paneled Slalom this Friday am/pm, February 16th.  Check the White Board at the National Chair for the training hill.

Equipment: Slalom Skis and Forearm Guards.

 Coaches Tip: Practice the action of grabbing your poles after releasing the start handles, as it is not uncommon for racers to struggle with gripping their poles after the start.

 Learn how to race Dual Slalom in this Module: https://medium.com/alpine-race-method-for-adults/dual-paneled-slalom-333b03598dd8

 Thank you for slipping the course and helping the coaches remove the race gates at the end of the training session.

 Ski with Purpose

 -Glenn

See You At The Apres and Dual!

Your GDHL Committee:

• Brook Dyson

• Michael DeAngelis

• Peter Dyson

• Chris Knight

• Carrie Grinter-Lenauskas

• Meg Ryley

• Richard Usher-Jones

• Paul Peterson

Super Good Times on National!

The 2024 edition of the National Super G is complete! There were some nerves at the top, downhill suits that were dusted off after 12 months, and lots of smiles at the finish. This coming Saturday sees our last Slalom of the year.

In This Newsletter:

• Super G Recap

• Standings Update

• Athletic Fundraiser - This Weekend

• Bib Draws

• North Lodge Apres - February 17

• GDHL Awards Banquet - March 2

• Adult Racing Update

• Interclub Update

Super G Recap

It was a blue bird afternoon for the highly anticipated Super G race this past Sunday.  The capacity crowd in attendance included a few celebrities such as Steve Podborski,  Rob Safrata, and Famous Flo Popalis, just to name a few.  The crowds were lined 3 deep from the top of National to the bottom of Big John hoping to catch a glimpse of some great racing, or maybe they just wanted to see what grown men and women look like in race suits. Either way they crowds got what they wanted. 

STANDOUT PERFORMANCES: 

In the Mens division it was Griffin Copp once again taking the top spot on the podium as he is starting to put up rookie stats not seen in the GDHL since Greg Cavers’s record breaking rookie season back in 1984.  Right behind Griffin were Benny “the Jet” Williams and Magic Mike Welton who are both pretty much guaranteed to be in the top 3 of any race they enter.  Shout out to Noah Levine who finished 4th, which my statistician is telling me is his best career finish in a GDHL race so far. 

In the ladies division it was Meg Ryley who finished in her usual spot at the top of the podium but there was a shake up in the top 3.  Craigleith legend Grant Irwin had a big smile on his face after his daughter (and favourite child) Mack Irwin came down in 2nd place. Mack finished just a few spots ahead of part time bikini model Katie Farrow, who finished in 3rd place.  Honourable mention to Taylor Davies who slipped into 4th place.  In case any of our readers are looking to stay on top of the GDHL gossip,  Taylor is the longtime main squeeze of Griffin Copp and these two appear to be the new millennial version of Hal and Sal from body break. (50% of you will be too young to get that reference) The GDHL and the Craigleith Interclub team are lucky to have these racers competing together. 

RIVALRIES: 

Andrew Ottoway was not happy about losing to his brother Phil in the night slalom so he was all business in this weeks race.  The instagram video shows Andrew grunting like Serena Williams as he went around each gate and this strategy paid off as he finished 10 spots ahead of brother Phil.  Eddie “the Eagle” Barnicke finished ahead of sister in law Carrie Lenauskas, which is big news (I’ll be surprised if this line makes it to print as Carrie has editors in high places who may remove it before it goes to press).  Paul Peterson finished well back of rival Brayden Irwin but he also finished one spot of President James Mathers.  Paul and James don’t necessarily have an existing rivalry but the author felt it should be mentioned regardless.  Dave Robinson wins the mens “safest skier” award once again as his fiercest rival and main competition Gareth Imrie laid it all on the line and finished one tenth ahead of Dave for 2nd safest skier on the day. 

MORE BIG HEADLINES: 

Dashing David Staples, widely known around the club as the most handsome of all “Veteran" racers looked like Hell as he had 2 black eyes and busted up his nose while gate training on Friday…. Paul Peterson skied shirtless and finished 75th which had other racers intrigued. In fact, rumour has it Cheryl McConachie was planning on utilizing the same strategy to improve her time for run #2 before the GDHL committee turned her idea down as there were kids mixed in with the enormous capacity crowd….  Harrison Simms Brown and Hilary Craig both underwent successful knee surgery and will be back stronger than ever by 2027… We wish them well in their recovery as the GDHL isn’t the same without them… 

Only 2 races left and  the team standings are very tight at the Top.  Should be an incredible last few weeks of racing! 

-Paul

A note on scoring from the Super G:

Unfortunately the race was cut short halfway through the second run on Sunday. Due to a combination of timing problems, a late start, and injuries on the course, the race went longer than hoped for, and a decision was made to halt the race. As such the scoring will only reflect times that were completed in the first run of the race.

If you missed a gate on the first run and finished, and you are not listed as a DSQ or DNF then please email us at gdhl@gdhl.org to get that corrected.

Thanks to everyone that helped take down the netting after the race Sunday. It was a long day of racing and many had commitments on a Sunday afternoon, but we appreciate the efforts of all those that helped out. Thank you!

-Brook

Standings Update

Results and standings should be updated by this weekend. We are still waiting on final timing and race information from the race crew.

A reminder that your contribution to your team standings is the total of your four best races. If you have less than four races, then only those points count towards your team standings.

Be sure to get those four races in! Feel free to nudge a teammate that may need the extra encouragement…

Athletic Fundraiser

The Athletic Fundraiser is this Saturday night at 7pm in the Depot. Be sure to get your tickets at the club website! Proceeds from this event go towards racing equipment and infrastructure around the club. If you’ve raced in the GDHL, you’ve benefited from the proceeds of years past!

Bib Draws

Our bib auctions are growing in popularity, as the results of bibs 10 and 20 continue to yield benefit.   You too can have the opportunity to race up front and ski like Al Lachance* on a freshly groomed course; which could be very helpful if the weather forecast holds (*you will only ski like Al if you are indeed Al). The early bib also comes with early access to the bar to talk about your epic run – before the young guns even finish! 

The bib auction will again take place in the Main Lodge from 1030am to 1130am on Saturday, before the 1pm SL on Little John.   Look for the Craigleith Cares sign – all proceeds go to a great cause, and come with a tax receipt!

Our generous sponsors continue to support the hydration of our athletes after the race.   After the race, look for your friendly neighborhood committee member for beverage tickets at the finish line or around the bar area.

-Chris

North Lodge Apres - February 17

A reminder of our Apres at the North Lodge on Saturday February 17th. This event is BYOB and admission is free. Racers, friends, families, and fans are welcome! We will have activities for the little ones in the lower level while we are gearing up for the next day’s Dual Slalom!

GDHL Awards Banquet - March 2nd

Mark your calendars for our end of the year banquet on March 2nd. Your committee is busy putting together a nightcap on the GDHL season.

If you’re a rookie this year or a veteran that has never been to the banquet, it’s a great opportunity to celebrate the year with your fellow GDHL racers. (…And you can bring your own wine…) Stay tuned for more details!

Message from Glenn Blaylock, Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

We will be training slalom this Friday, February 9th.

Coaches Tips:

Learn how to ski ‘Slalom’ including different strategies for clearing slalom gates: https://medium.com/alpine-race-method-for-adults/slalom-969d345745

Learn how to ‘Train With Purpose’ to optimize your training experience: https://medium.com/alpine-race-method-for-adults/train-with-purpose-db359f147fa2

Friday Training

•  Date: Friday, February 9

• Time: 9:30 to 11:30 am / 1:00 to 3:00 pm

• Hill: (Check the White Board at National Chair to Confirm).

• Discipline: Slalom

• Equipment: Slalom Skis and Protective Equipment including guards for face, hands and shins.

• Coaches: Glenn Blaylock and Greg Roe

 Thank you for slipping the course and helping the coaches remove the race gates at the end of the training session.

 Ski with Purpose

Interclub Update - from Taylor Simms Brown

The Craigleith interclub team FLEXED this past weekend, dominating almost every age category, taking 5 of 6 podium spots, but still ended up losing by 2 pts.

The GS @ TSC this weekend is the last event to qualify for finals hosted at Craigleith on February 24th. 

If you are interested in learning more, how you could contribute (you don't need to be the fastest), or think you can win your 5 year age category versus other clubs email Taylor at tsimmsbrown@jascor-intl.com

See you on the hill Saturday at 1pm!

Brook, Paul, Chris, and the GDHL Committee

Speed Weekend 2024

Its arrived - Super G Weekend! Get ready for our speed race that runs right underneath the busiest chairlift at Craigleith. By Sunday your legs will have had over two weeks of rest and preparation. So make sure to wax those skis and squeeze into those suits, because our racers and fans can’t wait for this race!

In this newsletter:

• Super G - rules and details

• Bib Auction

• Athletic Fundraiser

• Sponsors!

• GDHL Apres - February 17th at North Lodge

• Upcoming Races

• Adult Race Training

• Interclub

Super G

Year 2 of the GDHL Super down National is sure to be a great time. This is a unique space at Craigleith that only sees races one week this year. For those of you that saw the Ski Cross World Cup Final on National, don’t worry - there are no plans for the extreme jumps and features that were in place for that last year. But otherwise, it’s the same, right?

Weather permitting, we are planning for two runs on Sunday. The course will be set by former National and Provincial Team coach Benoit Lalande.

Some details for race day are as follows:

• Downhill suits are allowed, pole guards are not allowed, helmet cams are not allowed, and hard eared helmets are mandatory.

• Because of the speed, there are extra safety rules around this race that need to be followed.

• Inspection is MANDATORY for all racers. From 12:10 to 12:40pm please check in at the top of the race course with your bib number. Your name will be checked off a list. If you do not inspect, you do not race.

• A Yellow Flag waving while you are on the course means that there is an obstruction or fallen racer ahead of you. Please try to safely stop and see the closest member of the race crew. You will be granted a rerun.

• If you see an athlete experience a fall, please do not attempt to enter the race course and approach them. While we totally understand and can relate to your urgency to help, Speed race emergency plan protocols will already have been activated to protect the safety of  athletes, officials, and course workers on course.  

• Only accredited personnel are allowed inside the fences (athletes, course officials, coaches, ski patrol, and course workers)

• Once inspection is closed, you must leave the course.  

Our race crew - The Coyotes - are there to ensure a safe and fun racing experience on this exciting Super G course. Many members of our Coyotes crew are veterans of World Cup races throughout Canada, and bring that safety know-how to our GDHL races. Thank you Coyotes!

In the event an athlete requires medical assistance the course crew will ensure the course is clear before allowing the Ski Patrol to move to the athlete.  This may require the "Yellow Flagging" of an athlete that is currently on course.  As a spectator, this may seem like the course crew is not aware, however, they are ensuring that no one else gets injured while they are responding.

All GDHL racers are asked to assist with tear down after the race. It takes many hands to remove the safety netting. Please meet at the top of the course just prior to the last racer.  One of the course crew will advise you of where they can use your expertise. 

The GDHL organizers and the Craigleith Coyotes race crew appreciate your assistance with the course clean up!  Many thanks in advance from all of us.

Please send us an email if you have ANY questions around the Super G. This is another first for a lot of you, so please don't hesitate to ask.

Here’s a clip of the 2017 Super G down Landslide from GDHL alum Morgan Rubes. (Click on his profile for a treasure trove of other GDHL videos. Thanks Morgan!)

Bib Auction

Word has traveled fast on the success Bibs #10 and #20 are having for our racers.   As a result, more people are asking how they can get in on the action.  

If you are interested in bidding on these bibs, for yourself or your team, a Craigleith Cares representative will be located in the main lodge near the bar on Sunday AM (pre-race) from 10:00am to 11:30am, accepting bids.  

Highest offer for each bid wins and we will contact the winner view text – bib 10 and 20 will be available for pick up at the starting hut.   We may even arrange for a local celebrity to deliver it!    And don't forget, all proceeds go to Craigleith Cares and tax receipts will be issued.   A win-win-win.  

Athletic Fundraiser - Saturday February 10th

Tickets are available for the Athletic Fundraiser on Saturday February 10th in the Depot. Treat yourself to music, a silent auction, good food, and some drinks with friends.

If you’ve ever raced in the GDHL, you know that you have benefited from the proceeds of the fundraiser, just look around! Start huts, finish huts, safety netting, timing gear, gates, and much more.

Tickets are available on the club website.

VOLUNTEERS WANTED: The Athletic Fundraiser committee is looking for members of our GDHL community to help out with ticket sales during this Friday evening in the base lodge. If you’d like to assist, please email gdhl@gdhl.org and we will forward your information.

SILENT AUCTION ITEMS: If you would like to donate an item for the silent auction, please email gdhl@gdhl.org and we will forward your information.

Thanks to Our Sponsors!

Once again, a big thank you to our sponsors. They are the ones that allow us to offer much more than just racing! We couldn’t do it without you.

Sutherland Insurance

Lysander Funds

Raymond James

Erinwood Ford

Sidelaunch Brewery

Spy Cider Distillery

Squire John’s

Lange and Dynastar

Nicholas Pearce Wines

MID-SEASON APRES - SAturday FEbruary 17th - North Lodge

We are kickin' it old school... in the North Lodge.  Similar to last year's South Lodge Apres. 

Who: GDHL'ers, their families and Fans!  (Yes, kids as well!)

When: Saturday, February 17th  3:30-5:30   (Family Day weekend and day before the Dual Slalom)

Where: North Lodge

What: Old School BYOB Apres with munchies

We will have some beer from our fabulous sponsor SideLaunch. Nicholas Pearce Wines will be there pouring a selection of fine wines for your refined palate. www.npwines.com 

Get those rivalries in check for the dual the next day!

Bring the kids! Similar to the Calcutta, we will have a kids section and helpers.

More info to come as we get closer.

Upcoming Races

Mark your calendars for the two remaining races: Slalom on February 10th and the Dual Slalom on February 18th. Both races are on Little John.

Message from Glenn Blaylock, Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

We will be training a fast Giant Slalom this Friday, February 2nd to prepare for the Super G on Sunday February 4th

Coaches Tips for Skiing Fast

Learn key tactics for racing Giant Slalom: https://medium.com/alpine-race-method-for-adults/turn-shape-791de526b0ba

 Learn how to ‘Search for Speed’ and when to use the ‘High’ and ‘Low’ tuck stances:  https://medium.com/alpine-race-method-for-adults/skiing-fast-3c35cf1b6e84

 Friday Training

Date: Friday, February 2

Time: 9:30 to 11:30 am / 1:00 to 3:00 pm

Hill: (Check the White Board at National Chair to Confirm).

Discipline: Giant Slalom

Equipment: GS Skis, Hard Shell Helmet and Forearm guards.

Coaches: Howard Cole and Greg Roe

 hank you for slipping the course and helping the coaches remove the race gates at the end of the training session.

 Ski with Purpose

Interclub

The team is filling up for the GS at Alpine this weekend.

If you’re interested in learning more about the interclub racing circuit, Craigleith’s 11 year championship run, or how you could be involved email tsimmsbrown@jascor-intl.com

SEe you on National on Sunday!

Halfway There!

Hard to believe, but the GDHL season is halfway done! This weekend featured our annual Friday Night Lights and our last GS of the year.

In this newsletter:

• Friday Night Lights Recap

• Saturday GS Recap

• Mid Season Apres! February 17th

• Bib Auctions

• Winter World Masters Games

• Message from Glenn, Adult Race Head Coach

• Interclub Message

• Athletic Fundraiser - Fire and Ice

• Bye Week This Week!

Friday Night Lights Recap

Consistent with what has become a trend this year, we had record turnout at our Friday Night Lights slalom race. The Base Lodge was humming, the hills were filled with fans, and our racers put on a show worthy of this great event.

Notable performances at the top of the standings included Mike Welton with his first victory of the season, Meg Ryley picking up an auction bib and finishing fourth, and Andrew Athey recording his first top 10 of the season. In addition, those that put in training sessions really saw some improvement in their slalom placings.

118 racers (and countless fans on the hill) were treated to an exciting night of slalom racing. You may have noticed an exciting new voice walking the crowds through the results on Friday night. We had a cameo from the talented Mike Garrity, who was announcing his first ever ski race. Thanks Mike!

As this was our first Slalom of the year, a few new faces climbed the standings with their performances. Many racers put up their best results of the season, including Marc Warren, Chloe Berry, Peri Wiseman, and Margaret Squires. 

Fresh off the surgeon's table, Warren Finlay showed that he is still the longest-tenured slalom specialist at the club. 

Andrea McLorie appears to be closing the gap with husband Scott, who himself had his most honest showing of the post-Covid era. 

Peter Dyson somehow pulled off a miracle and took brother Brook by an unprecedented 13 spots. Satisfied that David had successfully slayed Goliath, Peter decided not to take a second run.

Get well soon Harry. We are all thinking of you.

Saturday GS

Less than 24 hours after our first slalom race of the year, the GDHL saw it's last GS race of 2024. Comet was the site of a slightly shorter GS course that had some gnarly features built in courtesy of the morning's junior race. Thanks to the Coyotes for clearing the track and making it an enjoyable afternoon.

The team standings now have Vortex (medium Calcutta price), Landslide (bargain price!), and Big John (record setting expensive) in the top three spots. Unlike the Republican primaries, this race is still up for grabs with spots four through seven within striking distance of our top three teams.

For those tracking the progress of Gareth Imrie, the second run was faster by almost a second. Take the over on Gareth. 

The auction bibs were scooped up by the Westlake family who grabbed Kim and Chadwick some sweet start positions. Kim laid down a record finish, while Chadwick may be bidding for another bib next week.

Alex Carter and Shelly Spivak are now neck and neck in the standings, trading rankings over multiple weeks. This new rivalry is heating up, with the winner possibly finding tequila magically appearing in front of the winner at an apres.

Speaking of Apres, the GDHL Apres is set for the day before the Dual Slalom of the Long Weekend. If you have a grudge match, let us know at gdhl@gdhl.org, we will do our best to put you in the gates against each other.

MID-SEASON APRES

Get ready for the apres of the year. The GDHL committee has been able to secure a date and location for our mid-season apres!

We are kickin' it old school... in the North Lodge.  Similar to last year's South Lodge Apres. 

Who: GDHL'ers, their families and Fans! 

(Yes, kids as well!)

When: Saturday, February 17th  3:30-5:30  

(Family Day weekend and day before the Dual Slalom)

Where: North Lodge

What: Old School BYOB Apres with munchies

We will have some beer from our fabulous sponsor Side Launch and Nicholas Pearce Wines will be there pouring a selection of fine wines for your refined palate. www.npwines.com 

Get those rivalries in check for the dual the next day!

Bring the kids! Similar to the Calcutta, we will have a kids section and helpers.

More info to come as we get closer!

Bib Auctions

Our bib auctions for #10 and #20 in the starting hut have been a big success and win-win for everyone involved.    Our successful bidders have benefited with personal bests, as the confidence of a freshly laid course has led them to some impressive times. Wearing an official bib from last year’s Ski Cross World Cup has rubbed off on these racers!

More importantly, we have raised $750 for Craigleith Cares (https://www.craigleithcares.org/).   Thank you bidders!  

With three races remaining, there will be further opportunities to place your bid and grab a better starting position.   And a tax receipt and good karma to go with it.    As the competition amongst teams heats up, these elusive bibs could be the difference maker.   

Stay tuned to this newsletter and our Instagram feed for more information on where and when the next auction will take place.   Don't miss out!

Winter World Masters Games in Italy

Remember a while back when we told you Tiana Koffler-Boyman and Jeff Sutherland were going to the Winter World Masters Games in Lombardy, Italy?  Well this was also news to Jeff as well...Ooops! He is going to another set of Masters races later in the year. 

 But.... getting back to Europe, it should surprise no one, that Tiana did a few warm up races in Austria before the big games, where she posted great results in a very competitive age category.

Our Speed Queen then sped off to the Winter World Master Games in Italy, where she posted a 2nd in the Super G, just off the podium in GS and then raced the slalom.

Check out her results below. Great job TIANA!

https://www.fis-ski.com/DB/general/athlete-biography.html?sectorcode=ma&competitorid=110249&type=result

Message from Glenn Blaylock, Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

We will be training Giant Slalom this Friday (January 26) as outlined below.

Coaches Tips:

The Line.  Where you ski through a racecourse is as important as how you ski through a racecourse. To learn about the different ‘Lines’ click on this link: https://medium.com/alpine-race-method-for-adults/line-a6b0859907aa

Course Inspection: Inspecting the racecourse before a race will improve your result and reduce the risk of injury. To learn more, click here: https://medium.com/alpine-race-method-for-adults/course-inspection-deadb0d2d53f

Friday Training

 Date: Friday, January 26

Time: 9:30 to 11:30 am / 1:00 to 3:00 pm

Hill: (Check the White Board at National Chair to Confirm).

Discipline: Giant Slalom

Equipment: GS Skis, Hard Shell Helmet and Forearm guards.

Coaches: Glenn Blaylock and Greg Roe

Thank you for slipping the course and helping the coaches remove the race gates at the end of the training session.

 Ski with Purpose

Interclub Message, from James Mathers

As many of you know, Craigleith has won the interclub finals 11 times in a row, for which some of you can take credit.  Our hopes of successfully defending our regular season championship have sadly been lost in the tumult of racing in Caledon and conflicting schedules, but there remains every chance of winning the final showdown on Big John.  It's coming up soon, on Saturday 24 February.

Interclub racing is primarily a team event.  Those who can win overall are great to have, but those who can do pretty well in a big age group are often even more valuable.  The requirements to qualify for the finals have changed to our advantage this year.  Some can qualify solely based on GDHL participation and will never have an away race, but life is much easier for the team captain if you can get to the interclub races at Alpine on Saturday 3 February (no GDHL conflict) or TSC on Saturday 10 February, or better yet both.

Many leading names have already expressed interest.  Our sophisticated masters racing performance analytics system, proudly built with all natural intelligence, has identified names such as Clark, Raymond (S.), Zoricic, Banfield, McCool, Lenauskas (C.), Pedlar, Gust (one or more), Farrow, McConachie, Murdison, Bruce (F.) and Copp among potential contributors who haven't donned the Club colours recently, if at all.  The Staples family is thought to be holidaying at the critical time, unless Paul Peterson can shame them into not taking one for the team.  Of course, anyone of a similar age to those named who fancies themselves as faster would be carefully considered.

Those who fit the description or just want to be part of the well-known exclusive social events associated with interclub are encouraged to contact Taylor Simms-Brown (tsimmsbrown@jascor-intl.com) or James Mathers (jamie.mathers@gmail.com) as pronto as possible to get more details.

Athletic Fundraiser - February 10th

Tickets are still available for the Athletic Fundraiser on February 10th. Always a highlight of the year, the fundraiser is a good time to raise money for a good cause: our athletes!

If you’ve ever raced in the GDHL, you have benefited from those proceeds: start huts, finish huts, safety netting, timing gear, gates, and so much more.

Tickets are available on the club website.

No Race This Week

Rest your bodies, exercise your livers, and get in the right headspace for next weekend! The Super G race is down National on Saturday February 4th. Downhill suits are allowed and speed is encouraged! Wax those skis and get your headspace worked out, because we are doing a Super G!

Snow Snow Snow!

This weekend saw the return of mother nature to Craigleith’s hills. Worries about course conditions due to snow were expertly handled by the Coyotes crew again this week.

In this newsletter:

• Standings Update

• Race #2 Recap

• Night Race - Friday 6pm

• GS Race - Saturday 1pm

• Bib Auctions - Friday and Saturday

• Note from Glenn Blaylock

• GTHS Event Notice

• Interclub Race Saturday

Standings Update

A reminder that your best four races count towards team points and placing. If you’re on a team, please do your best to get in four races. Your teammates (and owners) are counting on you!

Race #2 Recap

Saturday’s GS was our second race on Big John in 2024. The course was fast and chattery, with extra bounces thrown in. Some skis were lost on each of the runs, but in general the course held up. Most of our racers are now in mid-season form, with new and old rivalries coming to the forefront.

A record 143 racers scored points for themselves and their teams. It’s safe to say the rust is gone, bad habits are forming, and everyone has their eyes glued to the live timing site after the race.

Griffin Copp took his first victory of the season, followed closely by Ben Williams and Mike Welton. Last week’s winner Gordie Bruce came fourth and edged out Alec Liebert and Austin Gust by the narrowest of margins. The season is shaping up to see a variety of racers on the men’s podium.

Katie Farrow was victorious on the female side, followed closely by Meg Ryley and Mackenzie Irwin. Less than a second separated the top five females, rounded out by Madison Staples and Cheryl McConachie. As with the men, the prize for top female is definitely up for grabs this year.

As always, family competition in the GDHL is alive and well. The latest entrants to the Irwin team saw some improvements over last week, with Keegan moving up a few spots and rookie Gareth Imrie shaving significant seconds from last week’s effort. Sarunas Lenauskas is quietly closing the gap with wife Carrie, while Dylan Raymond edged out father Dave by 19 hundredths.

The Popalis boys finished within 7 hundredths of each other, with Petey taking top spot. Rumour has it that proud parents Flo and Peter are opening up their bar tab to whichever brother comes out on top!

90s-era Mackenzie All-Stars Justin Burul, Doug Mac Con, Allison McMillan and Jordan White have reappeared on the racing circuit after a multi-decade break, putting up respectable results in their first two races back. Brad McMullen and Mark Shillum renewed their rivalry by finishing right next to each other, only one place apart.

Chris Clark made his return to the GDHL from a multi-year hiatus, after learning of the break-out performance in 2023 of son-in-law David Singh. Keep an eye on this matchup!

Fan favourite Dave Robinson has begun his much-anticipated ascent up the GDHL standings, narrowing the gap on better half Meghan, who herself is pulling ahead of sister Lauren Liberty.

Former GDHL committee member James Coulter welcomed daughter Alex to the GDHL, showing off by narrowly beating Richard Usher-Jones by 2 hundredths. Defending his family’s honour, Richard’s son Nicolas snuck ahead of Alex Coulter by 3 spots.

Sporting Bib #10, Ed Barnicke placed an impressive 29th, while Bib #20 owner Phil Ottaway opened up a gap of 19 places this week over brother Andrew. These bibs are up for auction again this week, and can be a good investment in yours or your team’s fortunes.

By managing to stay on two skis this week, Paul Peterson closed the gap with wife Meg by 12 spots! Vegas bookies are keeping an eye on this incredible breakthrough, and are now expecting big things from Paul this year.

Race #3 - Slalom - Little John - Friday at 6pm

Our first night race, and first slalom, of 2024 is this Friday at 6pm. The front half of our weekend doubleheader is sure to be a great night! A reminder that the Little John chair is open to all members from 5pm to 8pm. Bar and food services are open throughout the night.

Inspection is from 5:15pm - 5:45pm.

This race is also open to non-GDHL’ers. If you’ve been doing some Adult Gate Training and looking to put your skills to use, shoot us an email at gdhl@gdhl.org and feel free to drop by the start area prior to the race. We will do our best to get you in.

A friendly reminder to check your goggle lens. Dark shades aren’t the greatest at night!

Yellow lenses are great for the night!

Race #4 - GS - Comet - Saturday at 1pm

The second half of our weekend doubleheader is this Saturday, with the return of Giant Slalom racing to Comet. This is our last GS race of the year, so let’s make it count!

Inspection is from 12:10pm to 12:40pm. Race starts at 1:00pm.

A reminder that Downhill Suits and their long-lost cousins are not permitted. Hard ear helmets are mandatory.

Bib Auctions

Similar to this past week, there will be auctions for bibs #10 and #20. ANYONE is open to bid on these bibs, with all proceeds going to Craigleith Cares Foundation (tax deductible).

The bibs for the Friday Night Slalom will be auctioned off LIVE at the top of Little John at 5pm on Friday.

The bibs for the Saturday Afternoon GS will be auctioned off LIVE at the top of Comet at 12pm on Saturday.

As mentioned above, last week’s bib owners Ed Barnicke and Phil Ottaway saw some nice runs with a clean course, for a small price!

Message from Glenn Blaylock, Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

We will be training Slalom this Friday (January 19) as outlined below.

Coach’s Tip: A good start technique will improve your race results. To learn how you can start a race like World Cup racers, click on this link: https://medium.com/alpine-race-method-for-adults/the-start-86e9acf46da7

Friday Training

•  Date: Friday, January 19

• Time: 9:30 to 11:30 am / 1:00 to 3:00 pm

• Hill: (Check the White Board at National Chair to Confirm).

• Discipline: Slalom

• Equipment: Slalom Skis, Helmet and Guards for hands, face and shins.

• Coaches: Glenn Blaylock and Greg Roe

• Thank you for slipping the course and helping the coaches remove the race gates from the hill at the end of the training session.

 Ski with Purpose

 Glenn

Georgian Triangle Humane Society Event - February 1st

Enjoy the day on and off the slopes at SKI FOR PETS 2024, Feb 1 at Craigleith Ski Club in support of critically needed day to day operations to care for the animals at GTHS. Purchase tickets HERE.

$200.00 Ticket includes lift, light breakfast, lunch + après ski snacks. ($50 tax receipt)

$100.00 Ticket for non- skiers and Craigleith Members includes light breakfast, lunch + après Ski Snacks. ($25.00 tax receipt) 

SKI FOR PETS ITINERARY 

• - 9:00 - Registration opens w light breakfast w coffee, tea, juice

• - 9:30 - Free Ski 

• - 12:00 - Lunch

• - 1:30 - Fun Race + Guided Snowshoe

• - 3:00 - Apres w Jenny Howes Duo Live

• - 4:00 - 50/50, Fun Race Winners Announced

• - 5:00 - See you next year for SKI FOR PETS 2025!

• Equipment Rentals Available HERE

• 50/50 + Much More! 

Food

• Provided by in house caterer Pease Marsh Farms. Enjoy a delicious light breakfast, buffet lunch with tasty après treats.

Tickets Non-Refundable.

Hope we see you there! Your support would mean the world to us and 1000's of Pets in Need. 

Interclub Race - Saturday

The next interclub race will be at Georgian Peaks this Saturday at 1pm. For more information or to inquire about participating, please contact Taylor at tsimmsbrown@jascor-intl.com or check out www.interclubski.org. Open to all racers looking for an elevated racing experience.

See everyone on Friday Night! Bring your cheering sections!

Race #1 Complete!

The first race of the season is complete! The nerves are gone and the rust has (mostly) been shaken off! The rookies now have a race under their belts, and the veterans are left wondering how they can get better.

In this newsletter:

• Race Recap

• Teams

• Results Page

• Next Races

• Calcutta Recap

• Craigleith Cares

• World Masters Games

• Message from Glenn, Adult Racing Head Coach

Race #1 - Big John - Giant Slalom

The first race of the year saw some a collection of great runs, amazing wipeouts, spectacular crashes, puzzlement at the delay gate, chatter at the top, nerves of steel, and tight jeans. Congratulations to all of our first-time racers: you are now a Ski Racer!

Race #1 Recap:

Saturday’s GS race on Big John was memorable and historic for a variety of reasons.  Coming off a record setting Calcutta the night before, we had 140 racers come down the course which was easily the biggest filed in the long history of Adult racing on the escarpment.  When you combine excellent snow conditions, great visibility, big crowds and Joey Hill’s extra tight, suede, equestrian pants, you know you are going to have a great race.  

STANDOUT PERFORMANCES: 

Gorgeous Gordie Bruce , often compared to a young Tom Cruise, skied incredibly well and narrowly snuck by Benny “big bulge" Williams for the top step on the podium.  Gordie had quite the weekend as he won a $500 gift card the night before at the Calcutta, and luckily his main squeeze Tenyka was there to claim it on his behalf. 

Alec Libert took a break from hanging drywall in his own house, came out of retirement, and looked great with an impressive 3rd place finish. 

Scott Mclorie, like a fine wine, getting better each year, finished 6th overall, crossing the line as his wife Andrea, and fellow GDHL speed demon;  yelled  “That’s my man!” 

Shoutout to newcomers; Griffin Copp, (4th place) Austin Gust (7th place) and Noah Levine (9th place) all placed in the top 10 which is impressive considering the pressure to perform the first time out in this prestigious league. 

In the ladies category, Meg Ryley took top spot but Katie Farrow, freshly engaged and looking to impress her fiancee, was only a few hundredths behind which could make for an interesting rivalry the rest of the season. Speaking of fiancees,  Mack Irwin finished 3rd for the ladies which was about 2 and a half minutes faster than her fiancee Gareth Imrie who was spotted learning how to ski on the magic carpet just hours before the race.  Gareth deserves an award for his efforts and surely Dave Robinson will be buying Gareth beer all season as Gareth now takes over Dave’s spot as the “safest” skier in the race league.  

FAMILY TIES: 

Newcomer Matt Staples snuck by his sister Madison which should move him to the top of parents David and Catherine's speed dial, and most likely ensure him a bigger share of his parents enormous will down the road.  

The El Presidente of the GDHL Brook Dyson finished one spot ahead of brother Pete, and it’s hardly worth mentioning anymore but Andrew Ottoway easily finished ahead of his brother Phil. 

The most interesting of all could be the new rivalry between Kate Veer and her son Jack.  Kate is an incredible racer so I shouldn’t be surprised but Jack only beat her by 3/100ths in race #1. I can only imagine how tough it is for Paul Peterson to finish 10+ seconds behind his wife every week but to lose to your Mother of all people, that would be something else!  

COMEBACK SEASON: 

Jen Price, Sarunas Lenauskas, Alec Libert, Cheryl Mcconachie and Trevor Jackson are just a handful of the former GDHL legends who are returning to action this year after some time away.   Jen Price looked smooth as ever but finished right behind Libby Barnicke and that will be a matchup to watch going forward. 

WEIRD AND WACKY

Matthew Brenzel lost a ski coming out of the start gate and somehow still managed to ski down the entire course on one ski without missing a gate… He came across the line and shockingly still managed to finish one spot ahead of Paul Peterson who apparently used dog poo for wax on Saturday as he was terribly slow. 

Speaking of Paul Peterson, he must have been feeling over confident as he was wearing a triple digit bib for the first time. Hanging out,  stretching and talking about the course setup with all the top racers who come down last.  He was even thinking with Mike Welton not in attendance this could be his chance to podium for the first time. With his confidence soaring, he came flying down the start ramp, taking a great line to the first gate yet he somehow tripped over his own pole and did a front somersault landing on his head and losing a ski.  With all the top skiers cheering and laughing , Paul put his ski back on and skied over the pitch looking smooth as ever to the crowd down below who couldn't figure out why it took him 25 seconds to get to the pitch.  Luckily for Paul his arch rival Brayden Irwin was not in attendance to see the disaster. 

Good luck to all racers this weekend! 

Results:

All results can be found on the GDHL.org page at the results tab.

Current results can be found here.

Calcutta Recap

The Calcutta was a great success!!!    Maybe it was the fancy new depot, or the inflation soaked prices of food and beer, but buyers were in the spending mood as we witnessed numerous records broken, with both the individual cost of teams and the overall winnings up for grabs. 

Thanks to our sponsors Sidelaunch and Spy Cider for providing refreshments, and to Dynastar/Lange and Squire John’s for providing some great prizes and auction items. Lysander, Ramond James, Sutherland, and Erinwood all provide funds to assist with putting on these great events. THANK YOU!

Paul Peterson once again hosted the evening and led us through our first GDHL event of 2024. Rip Riopelle returned as our auctioneer, and made sure each of our ten teams went for amounts that have not been seen before. A GDHL-record prize pot was assembled Saturday, to be distributed amongst the owners and racer-buy-backs of the top 3 teams at the end of the season, with a portion going towards GDHL operations and events through the year.

For those that now have a financial interest in a team, race-by-race results will be posted along with past seasons at https://gdhl.org/results-database.

If you were a successful buyer of a team, we will be in touch to confirm your consortium before we proceed with billing.  If you chose to buy back 4% of your team (which most did), we will bill your member account in the January cycle.    If you missed the Calcutta OR were undecided on the team buy back, you have until this Friday (Jan 12th) to opt in.   Please reach out to Chris Knight (cmknightrider@hotmail.com) to confirm your interest OR if you have any questions on the Calcutta.    Team details are above for your reference and Chris can share more details directly on buy in costs.

From the Craigleith Cares Foundation:

The Craigleith Cares Foundation is grateful to the GDHL Committee for providing us a place at the Calcutta last weekend. So much energy in the room - it was fun to be a part of!  We appreciated the warm welcome and the people stopping by to chat and learn more about the Foundation, including the Founding Members initiative. For those of you we didn't meet and who might have questions regarding the Foundation, feel free to drop us a line at info@craigleithcares.org, visit our website at http://www.craigleithcares.org or click on the link that will soon appear on the Club website.  Best wishes for a wonderful GDHL season!

Next Races

Our next race is this Saturday at 1pm on Big John. Please note the location change from Comet due to snow conditions. It’s a Giant Slalom race once again, so remember your hard-ear helmets and No Downhill Suits. (A reminder: when we refer to Downhill Suits, we mean anything that is tight tight tight against your body. This includes cycling suits, speed skating suits, painted on underwear, and really anything that is athletically designed to reduce drag.)

We will do our best to get in two runs, but may be limited to just one. You will be notified in the start/finish area if we are able to get in a second run for all racers.

Don’t forget to stop by the Base Lodge after your run for some drinks and conversation with your fellow racers!

Following this weekend’s race, our first Night Slalom will be on Friday January 19th at 6pm. This will be followed by a GS on Comet on Saturday January 20th at 1pm. Lots of racing to come!

GDHL'ers are going International! 

Tiana Boyman and Jeff Sutherland are competing in the 4th edition of the Winter World Masters Games in Lombardy, Italy, January 15-19th. There will be masters athletes competing in various winter sports from around the world. They will join a group of around 30 Canadians competing at Ponte di Legno and Aprica in Lombardy, Italy.  

This will be Tiana's 3rd time competing at the Winter World Master Games and Jeff's 1st. 

You can follow all the action at the link below but we will make sure to update you on their results and share some pictures.  

https://wwmglombardia2024.it/

GO TIANA & JEFF!  

Message from Glenn Blaylock, Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

Friday morning and afternoon training camps start this week. Details about this Friday are below followed by the training schedule for the 2024 season.

Explore the Race Technique module in the Alpine Race Method for Adults to learn how adults can adopt techniques used by elite skiers and racers.

Here’s the link: https://medium.com/alpine-race-method-for-adults/biomechanics-b44ab70ac264

Friday Training

• Date: January 12, 9:30 to 11:30 am / 1:00 to 3 pm

• Slalom: Slalom skis and protective equipment including helmet and guards for face, hands and shins.

• Hill: TBD. Check the message board at the bottom of National Chair for the training hill.  

• Coaches: Glenn Blaylock and Greg Roe

• Register On-Line by Thursday noon 

Thank you for slipping the hill after your last run through the course.

2024 Friday Adult Race Training Schedule

Friday morning and afternoon training sessions for 2024 are below. The sessions align with the GDHL race schedule.

• January 12th – Slalom

• January 19th – Slalom

• January 26th – Giant Slalom

• February 2nd – Fast Giant Slalom to prepare for Super G on Sunday

• February 9th – Slalom

• February 16th – Panelled Slalom

• February 23rd – Giant Slalom

• March 1st - TBD

THAT’S IT! See you on the hill!

…Brook, Paul, Chris, Carrie, and the rest of the GDHL Committee

GDHL Update - Race #1 and Calcutta

Good morning GDHL racers! 

Hopefully all of your off-season training is now complete (on-hill and in-bar!) as we are only days away from our 2024 kickoff! 

In this newsletter:

• Registration Update

• Sponsors

• Calcutta Update

• Race Rules and Information

• Race #1

• Adult Race Training

• GDHL Committee

Registration Update

2024 has seen record registration for the GDHL! Your committee has done its best to include all those that would like to participate. 

We thank you for your patience as some of you had to be placed on a waitlist.

Due to a higher than normal number of racers, there may be some modifications to how each race is conducted. With an eye towards course safety, some races may be reduced to one run only. This will be decided on a race-by-race basis, and will take into consideration snow conditions and number of racers at start. (An exception to the single run will be made for those that do not finish their initial run.)

Even though some races may have only one run, with record registration comes record participants at Calcutta and Apres.  More racers means more rivalries and more post-race stories! Bring it on!

Sponsors

Thank you to all of our sponsors for the 2024 season! We appreciate your support!

• Sutherland Insurance

• Lysander Funds

• Raymond James

• Erinwood Ford

• Spy Cider and Distillery

• Sidelaunch Brewery

• Lange and Dynastar

• Squire John's

Cacutta Update

Saturday, January 6th at 4:30pm in the Depot. 

The Calcutta is back! Come out and mingle with members of the GDHL community as we auction off teams and prizes. If you haven’t experienced a Craigleith Calcutta before, ask a veteran what to expect. The action is exciting and fast! 

The night will feature season commentary by Paul (@paultheskiracer) , a season update by Brook, and the main event run by Rip Riopelle. We look forward to welcoming you back!

Remember to pick up your bib and startlist upon arrival. We have also secured some other goodies for our racers courtesy of our sponsors. 

Special thanks to Sidelaunch and Spy Cider for providing refreshments. 

A huge thank you to all of our sponsors for making these events possible!

Race Rules and Information

Each of our races is governed by the FIS International Ski Competition Rules (ICR).

The GDHL is a fun racing league and we do not expect you to know all of the ski racing rules from the beginning. If you are unsure about ANYTHING, please ask a fellow racer or some of our Coyotes course crew. This is a fun race, and you will not be disqualified for minor infractions. However, major rules infractions will be enforced (missed gates, mistreatment of officials, etc). If you are unsure, please be polite and ask, we are all there to have a good time!

• No Downhill Suits for GS and Slalom races.

• **Inspection is where you get to SIDESLIP through the course prior to the race. This will help you get a feel of where the turns are, what the terrain is like, and where the finish is. It is highly recommended that you inspect the course prior to your run.**

• A reminder to all racers (veteran and rookie) that you are NOT to ski any of the gates during inspection. This is not practice. Don't ski it, just look!

• Results will be posted at GDHL.org.

• Racers will assemble at the top prior to each run, and the first racer (Bib Number 1) will leave the start gate at the start time. Each racer then goes in numerical bib order.

• Don’t be late for your run! If you are late, please see a race official and they will do their best to get you started. They will let you know where you are slotted in.

• Remember, the timer starts when your legs pass through "the wand". The timer stops when you cross the finish line at the bottom. You must go around all Red and Blue gates on the course. If you're not sure where to go, watch a few racers on the course and in the start gate before your run (or watch the forerunners).

• The Coyotes are our race crew at Craigleith. You will see them at the start, at the finish, and at various points throughout the race hill. They are there to ensure a safe, fair, and fun event.

Please be kind and respectful to all race course personnel and your fellow racers. Remember, race course personnel are all volunteers. **If you have any complaints, suggestions, or frustrations, see a GDHL committee member. We will help you out.**

After your race, feel free to head by the lodge. There is a 99% chance you will see other racers cooling down with a frosty beverage!

Race #1   -   Giant Slalom

Sunday January 7th @1pm on Big John 

Course inspection at 12:30pm

All racers are encouraged to inspect the course via side slip prior to the 1pm start. A reminder to NOT SKI the course during inspection. Consequences can include disqualification from the race. Just don’t do it! 

• No Downhill Suits. But feel free to get creative with your racing outfit…

• Helmets are mandatory. (Soft ear helmets are not sufficient, you will need a hard ear helmet). 

Adult Racing Update (a note from our Adult Head Coach Glenn Blaylock)

The 9 week training programs start this Saturday and Sunday (January 6 and 7).  If you would like to train on Sunday mornings, please contact Aaron Harrison, Program Administrator,  aaron.harrison@craigleith.com . Saturday morning sessions are currently full.

Friday training sessions begin January 12th. Be sure to register by Wednesday, January 10th so we have time to arrange for coaches.

We will be training Giant Slalom on Friday Jan 12 and the weekend.

Alpine Race Method for Adults

Welcome to the Alpine Race Method for Adults (Alpine Method), a comprehensive website designed for the adult race community. The Alpine Method covers skiing and racing skills and knowledge, including technique, race course strategies, injury prevention techniques, fitness programs, equipment insights, self-coaching tips, and much more. The Method is designed for adults at various stages of their racing journey, whether they are aspiring racers, those honing their racing skills, or advanced racers with years of experience.

Please access the Alpine Method through the following link. 

https://www.alpineracemethodforadults.com/ 

Your coaching team is looking forward to working with you this season.

Ski with Purpose

Glenn

GDHL Committee

A big thanks to our volunteer GDHL committee members for putting together a fantastic 2024 season!

• Brook Dyson

• Chris Knight

• Michael DeAngelis

• Meg Ryley

• Richard Usher-Jones

• Carrie Lenauskas

• Peter Dyson

• Paul Peterson

That's it for the update. See you on Saturday!

-brook

instagram.com/craigleith_gdhl

gdhl@gdhl.org

Christmas Update

Merry Christmas to everyone! Believe it or not - the first race of the season is January 7th at 1pm!

In this newsletter:

• Time Trials and Warm Up Race CANCELLED

• Registration and Waitlist

• Sponsors

• Outstanding Bibs

• Calcutta Information

• Jackets

• Rules Update

• Alpine Race Method For Adults

  
  
  
  

Time Trails and Warm Up Race cancelled

Unfortunately the weather has not been cooperating with our plans! The Time Trials and Warm Up Race scheduled for today - December 28 - has been cancelled. Due to the rain and warm weather, there is not enough snow to properly set a GS course and install necessary safety netting for our racers.

We were hoping to get an extra race in this year, but mother nature did not want to cooperate! If we can get a rescheduled date we will, but the forecast is not looking too promising at this point.

Registration and Waitlist

Thank you for your understanding as we deal with record turnout in this 2024 GDHL season. Your GDHL committee has managed to squeeze in all racers that were on the waitlist into this year's GDHL.

If you would still like to join, please add your name to the waitlist at the Alpine Programs Section of the Craigleith website. We will do our best to add you.

Sponsors

Thanks again to all of our sponsors for the 2024 season! We appreciate your support!

• Sutherland Insurance

• Lysander Funds

• Raymond James

• Erinwood Ford

• Spy Cider and Distillery

• Sidelaunch Brewery

• Lange and Dynaster

• Squire John's

Outstanding Bibs

A reminder: if you are holding onto a bib from last season, please return to the Race Office or a friendly GDHL Committee member. We do our best to collect 100% of the bibs at the end of each season, but there are always a few stragglers!

Calcutta

Join us on Saturday January 6th at 4:30pm in the Depot for the kickoff to our GDHL season! This is a great chance to get to know your fellow racers and possibly bid on some teams.

As always, Rip Riopelle is back to conduct our auction. If you haven't experienced the Calcutta, then you are in for a treat! (Check out our previous update for a breakdown of how bidding and scoring works). In addition to our teams, we will be auctioning off some equipment and other prizes. There will be snacks and drink samples. Thanks again to Spy Cider and Sidelaunch for helping out!

GDHL Jackets

We still have a few GDHL jackets available for purchase. Check out the table at this year's Calcutta to grab some of the few remaining jackets. If you would like to get one ahead of time, please email Chris Knight at cmknightrider@hotmail.com  Jackets are $80 each.

Rules Update

Each of our races is governed by the FIS International Ski Competition Rules (ICR).

The GDHL is a fun racing league and we do not expect you to know all of the ski racing rules from the beginning. If you are unsure about ANYTHING, please ask a fellow racer or some of our Coyotes course crew. This is a fun race, and you will not be disqualified for minor infractions. However, major rules infractions will be enforced (missed gates, mistreatment of officials, etc). If you are unsure, please be polite and ask, we are all there to have a good time!

• No Downhill Suits for GS and Slalom races.

• **Inspection is where you get to SIDESLIP through the course prior to the race. This will help you get a feel of where the turns are, what the terrain is like, and where the finish is. It is highly recommended that you inspect prior to your run.**

• A reminder to all racers (veteran and rookie) that you are NOT to ski any of the gates during inspection. This is not practice. Don't ski it, just look!

• Results will be posted at GDHL.org.

• Racers will assemble at the top prior to each run, and the first racer (Bib Number 1) will leave the start gate at the start time. Each racer then goes in numerical bib order.

• If you are late for your run, the race crew will do their best to get you started in order. Please be respectful of your fellow racers that were on time. You will get your run in, but you may need to be patient.

• Remember, the timer starts when your legs pass through "the wand". The timer stops when you cross the finish line at the bottom. You must go around all Red and Blue gates on the course. If you're not sure where to go, watch a few racers on the course and in the start gate before your run (or watch the forerunners).

• The Coyotes are our race crew at Craigleith. You will see them at the start, at the finish, and at various points throughout the race hill. They are there to ensure a safe, fair, and fun event.

Please be kind and respectful to all race course personnel and your fellow racers.  **If you have any complaints, suggestions, or frustrations, see a GDHL committee member. We will help you out.**

After your race, feel free to head by the lodge. There is a 99% chance you will see other racers cooling down with a frosty beverage!

Alpine Race Method For Adults

If you are looking for more detailed information on ski racing, and developing yourself off-hill, then check out the Alpine Race Method For Adults. The Method was created by our adult racing head coach, Glenn Blaylock. 

Next Race

Our first race is Sunday January 7th at 1pm. It's a GS on Big John. Reminder: No Downhill Suits! You need a hard-ear helmet to race.

A reminder that scoring is based on your four best races. If you complete less than four races, you will not be awarded points for the races that you miss, only those that you finished. This is different from previous years, but is in alignment with historical GDHL scoring.

See you at the Calcutta!

Welcome to the 2024 Season!

In this newsletter:

• Welcome rookies and veterans!

• Registration

• Race Schedule

• Warm Up Race

• Calcutta - Saturday January 6th at 4:30pm

• GDHL League Scoring

Welcome to the 2024 GDHL Season!

Welcome back to the biggest adult racing league on the escarpment! We are excited to welcome you back to the 2024 season, with our first race on Sunday January 7th.

To our new racers - congratulations on joining one of Craigleith’s oldest member-run traditions.

To some of you, this may be the first GDHL Thursday Newsletter that you have received. For others, this is the only reason you open your email on Thursday mornings in the winter. The weekly newsletter brings you race recaps, scheduling updates, and notes on what’s happening around the GHDL.

For past newsletters, info about the GDHL, results, and more; take a look at www.gdhl.org.

REGISTRATION IS CLOSED

We have had record registration this year! Unfortunately this means we have had to cap the number of racers. There is a waitlist available at the Alpine Programs Registration page on the Craigleith website, and we will be adding racers from there if possible. If you would still like to race, please add your name to that waitlist.

2024 Race Schedule

Thursday Dec 28th – Warm Up Race – GS Big John - 10:00am

Sat Jan 6th – Calcutta in Depot – 4:30pm

Sun Jan 7th – GS Big John - 1pm

Sat Jan 13th – GS Comet - 1pm

Fri Jan 19th – SL Little John - 6pm (night race)

Sat Jan 20th – GS Comet - 1pm

Sun Feb 4th – Super G National – 1pm

Sat Feb 10th – SL Little John – 1pm

Sun Feb 18th – Dual SL Little John – 1pm (long weekend)

Sat Mar 2th – End Of Season Event - evening

Feel free to put these seven races in your calendars. Your GDHL committee has worked hard with the club to schedule seven races throughout the season. Note: All of these could be subject to change due to conditions or weather concerns.

All seven of these races will count for points. More on that below.

NEW THIS YEAR - Warm Up Race (aka Time Trials)

We are running an extra race this year to assist with our initial racer rankings, and to give you some additional warm up!

If you are new to the GDHL, please schedule time to drop by the GS course that will be set on Big John from 10:00am to 11:30am. There will be no start list, so please line up at the start hut. There will be no bibs, just give the starter or GDHL Committee member your name and badge number.

If you are returning to the GDHL, feel free to also come and drop by the GS course for a warm up run or two.

No need to take off your jacket (but you can). We want to get a sense of where everyone fits.

Calcutta

Saturday January 6th at 4:30pm in The Depot

Join us for our traditional opening event of the GDHL season. All racers and friends are welcome! There will be a cash bar, some snacks, beverage tastings, and more. This is not a ticketed event, and all are welcome to join us in the new Depot!

Racers will be able to pick up bibs at the event. (Your start number for the season). Unlike a downhill suit, you’ll need it for Sunday’s race!

Never been to the Calcutta? You’re in for a treat!

The Calcutta is a live auction (Thanks Rip!) where each GDHL team is auctioned off to the highest bidder in the crowd. Anyone (or a consortium) can bid for any team. All of the proceeds are collected via member charge, with the total amount being split at the end of the season among the owners of the top three finishing teams, with a small portion used to offset league costs.

Each team is allowed to buy-back half of the value of their team, if they so choose. If you don’t feel like buying back, you are not obligated to. Those that choose to buy-back are charged accordingly.

All of this goes REALLY fast. It’s exciting and sometimes confusing, but you’re going to love it!

If you are looking to bid, either alone or as part of a group, let us know at gdhl@gdhl.org. It’s not mandatory, but it helps us prepare.

League Scoring:

• The winner of each race receives the most points. Second place receives second most. And so on.

• A racer can score points in each of the seven races.

• A racer’s season total is the sum of their best four races.

• Team totals are the sum of each teammate’s best four races.

• New this year - no calculation will be applied to those that do not complete four races. (If you only complete three, you score is the sum of those three races). Attendance matters.

If you have any concerns, please find a GDHL Committee Member.

Looking forward to a great season!

Your GDHL Committee for 2024:

• Brook Dyson

• Chris Knight

• Michael DeAngelis

• Meg Ryley

• Richard Usher-Jones

• Peter Dyson

• Carrie Lenauskas

• Paul Peterson

Countdown Is On!

2024 GDHL Season UPDATES

In this newsletter:

• Registration is CLOSED.

• Calcutta

• Race #1 and Schedule

• Sponsors

• Seeding Race - December 28

• Rules Reminder

• Registration Gremlins

REGISTRATION:

The GDHL is on track for another record year! Due to unprecedented early registration numbers, we have now had to close registration to keep numbers at a safe and efficient level. There is a waiting list that is active at the Alpine Programs page on the website. If you’re a little late to the party, feel free to add your name to the waitlist and we will add you if we can.

Because of this, we are asking all registrants to commit to attending as many races as possible this year. As mentioned above, not everyone was able to register. IF IT IS YOUR PLAN TO START UNDER 4 RACES, we ask that you consider stepping aside for those that want to get a decent season in. We have never asked this of our racers, but we are in uncharted GDHL territory.

SPONSORS:

Thanks to our 2024 Sponsors. These are the organizations that help us create a fun and exciting season. We will be letting you know more about them as the season goes on, but we wanted to say THANK YOU for helping us put on our races and social events.

• Sutherland Insurance

• Lysander Funds

• Raymond James

• Squire John’s

• Dynastar/Lange

• Sidelaunch Brewing

If you’re still looking for sponsorship opportunities, send us an email at gdhl@gdhl.org.

Calcutta Auction Block

CALCUTTA:

Racers ready, it's Calcutta time - Après style.  Join us Saturday, January 6th, 2024  from 4:30-6:30pm in The Depot for some light nosh, drinks from our sponsors, prizes and of course, picking up bibs, the reveal of teams and placing your bets!  Get your consortiums ready because with a packed field (over 130 racers!) this is sure to be a great one. 

Family and friends are also welcome - the more the merrier. See everybody there for the official start of the GDHL season!

As always, this event is not ticketed. Feel free to come by and check out what all the commotion is about!

(If you’re interested in bidding on teams, email us back with a heads-up. It helps us plan)

RACE #1 / SCHEDULE:

Our first race is GS on Sunday January 7th (morning after the Calcutta!).

The schedule for the rest of the season is being finalized and will be posted on this site as it becomes available.

SEEDING RACE:

New This Year: Conditions permitting, on December 28th we will be having an informal pre-season race. If you’re new to the GDHL, we ask that you plan to attend and take a timed run down the course. If you’re a GDHL vet and looking to get a run or two in, hop in to the course for a pre-season race run. Location and time To Be Announced.

This informal race will help us prepare rankings and teams as fair as possible.

Calcutta Action

RULES REMINDER:

• Have respect for all race workers, office staff, and fellow racers. (There will be consequences if you are a jerk!). If you have a concern or comment, bring it to a GDHL Committee member.

• Hard eared helmets for all races

• No downhill suits (except for the Modified GS aka Super G)

• Have fun!

• There are no requirements for shin guards, pole guards, or chinguards. Bruises and intact teeth are up to you!

• Apres-Ski is highly recommended

REGISTRATION GREMLINS:

If you have registered you may have received an email from the club regarding billing. There was an issue with the calculation of HST, and you may see a modification on your monthly bill.

#TBT 2023 Banquet

2024 Registration Is Open

Registration for the 2024 GDHL season is open!

IN THE NEWSLETTER BELOW:

• Registration Is Open

• Race Schedule

• Social Events

• Looking For Committee Members

• Sponsorship Opportunities

• Adult Pre-Season Race Camps

• Important Apres AGM Message

2023 Champions - Team Vortex

REGISTRATION:

For those that are counting, only 78 more days until the Calcutta! Time to make sure all of your gear is ready to go for the 2024 race/apres season.

Head on over to the club website at www.craigleith.com and click through to the Alpine Programs Registration section. Make sure you sign up before the November 15th early-bird deadline, as prices go up after that date. 

If you're thinking of racing in the GDHL for the first time, let us know by email at gdhl@gdhl.org and we'd be happy to give you an overview. There's a wide range of skill-levels in the GDHL, from first time racers to Not-Giving-Up-The-Dream veterans. The only requirement is that you have fun. (...and be able to make it down Big John...)

2024 GDHL Race Schedule: (DATES TBC)

• Pre-Season Warmup Race

• 2 Giant Slalom Races

• 2 Slalom Races

• 1 Modified GS (aka Super G)

• 1 Dual Slalom

• 1 Night Race

2024 SOCIAL EVENTS:

• Calcutta - Last Saturday of Christmas Break (January 6th)

• Multiple Saturday Post-Race Apres

• Night Slalom Apres and Bar Night

• GDHL End of Year Event - Saturday Night of Club Championships (March 2nd)

GDHL Committee Members

Due to some long-deserved retirements, the GDHL committee is looking for a few new members. If you're interested, send a message with your interest to Brook Dyson at gdhl@gdhl.org (We will miss you Doug Jarvis and James Coulter!)

Sponsorship Opportunities

Thank you to those sponsors that are returning. You really help us put on a great season!

We have a limited number of spots open for sponsorship of the 2024 GDHL. If you'd like to get your business in front of some of the most elite racers and Apres participants on the escarpment, this is your chance. Send an email to gdhl@gdhl.org for more information.

PreSeason Adult Race Camp

A note from Glenn Blaylock:

We are pleased to announce Craigleith Ski Club, in cooperation with Catalyst Sport Science, is offering two adult pre-season race camps at Sun Peaks this December.

 Glenn Blaylock, Head Coach, Adult Race Programs and Greg Roe will be coaching. 

 Camp #1: Starts December 5th for 6 days. Camp #2: Starts December 12th for 6 days.

The camp costs $1658 for 6 Days/ $3316 for 12 Days. The costs cover lift tickets, training, coaching, video, and timing. The costs do not cover flights, accommodation, food, and transfers to and from airports.

To simplify the billing process your Craigleith account will be billed for the deposit and remaining portion of the fee.   

Accommodation will be held for athletes at the Cahility Lodge and the Sun Peaks Grand. Discounts will be applied to the regular daily rates.

 More information including suggested flights and the Registration link are provided by the attached weblink:  https://forms.office.com/r/Qa7CewgWuh

 If you have any questions, you can email Glenn Blaylock a lockgc@gmail.com .

Important Apres AGM News

Rumour has it the bar will be open at 3pm on Saturday after the AGM. A great opportunity to see your fellow GDHL'ers and dust off those apres skills! 

The bar has missed you and your tab has gone cold. It's time to get back.

For those that have the NEED to relive 2023…

2023 Results

Check out our Instagram for updates and the latest gossip.

GDHL Instagram

www.gdhl.org

***this update has been brought to you without our longtime editor Doug Jarvis. Give us some time to get up to speed!***

Your Feedback Please

Once again - thanks for a great season! The snow has been melting fast, the lifts are closed, and the green grass is starting to appear on the hills. It feels like spring (and almost summer) came in with a bang!

Survey:

We have one more thing to ask of you: In our ongoing quest to improve the GDHL experience, your committee would like your feedback. Please click on the link below (or paste into your browser) and fill out a short survey. Your responses help us plan for next season.

GDHL Survey 2023

Sponsors:

If you know of any businesses or individuals looking to sponsor the GDHL in 2024, please let us know at gdhl@gdhl.org

Committee Members:

There are a few openings on the GDHL committee for 2024. If you are interested in volunteering some of your time before and during the season, please send a note to gdhl@gdhl.org. (Racing in the GDHL is not mandatory, but is encouraged)

Odds and Ends:

Those that have not yet returned your bibs, please arrange to get those back to the club. Your account will be charged if they are not returned.

If you have not yet purchased a jacket, we still have some available. Email gdhl@gdhl.org and we can arrange for pick up in the Collingwood area this offseason.

If you have not yet picked up your GDHL Logo Cooler Bag, there are still some available. Email gdhl@gdhl.org and we can arrange for pick up in the Collingwood area this offseason.

OFF-SEASON Training:

(This space intentionally left blank!)

Have a great spring!

World Cup Ski Cross racer Jack Crawford sporting the alternate GDHL jersey.

GDHL Newsletter March 9, 2023

The GDHL Committee thanks you for your participation in the 2023 Race Season!

We are so happy with how well our season went! When planning began for this year’s races, all we could hope for was a season without interruption or delay. The snow and weather at the start of the year caused some concern, but ever since the Calcutta we have been on a successful trajectory, culminating last weekend. It has been a memorable ski season for so many reasons, so we, the GDHL committee are so thankful you chose to participate with us.

This will be the final official newsletter for the 2023 GDHL season which means there is a lot to pack in. Proceed with caution as it will take a few minutes to read it all. Covered off below is:

• Season Wrap Up

• Message from our Chair, Brook Dyson

• Recap of the End of Year Banquet

• A short farewell from your editor, Doug J

• Info on where you can buy/pick up your GDHL Jacket

• Glenn’s Coach’s Corner

Announcements:

Before we go any further, here are a couple important announcements:

• BIBS: A reminder to return your bibs to the race office or front desk. Those that do not return by the end of March will have their accounts charged.

• LOST SKIS: One of our racers has had their Blue 165cm Stockli skis accidently picked up by someone else. He has the same Blue Stockli skis in his possession, but a 160cm size. If you have picked up these 165cm skis by mistake, please reply back to this email.

Season Wrap Up

It is hard to look back and pinpoint exactly how COVID impacted our skiing over the past few years. Surely it did but what measures had to be taken to enable us to ski, seem to be a distant past now. In fact, it was just last season that we had to begin each ski day by filling out a survey, and then wear a mask on the chairlift. Fast forward to this year, and we got to enjoy all the luxuries of a full, and awesome year.

We started out with a fun and rambunctious Calcutta on January 7th, something we had not enjoyed since January of 2020. Then we had a race season that spanned the next six weeks, with races and training days. This year we put on our second Night Slalom down Little John, with huge success. And our Dual Slalom event is becoming an annual tradition at the club, providing spectators with hours of amusement as racers duke it out. In a first for many of us long-time racers, and certainly a first for newer racers, we raced a Super G course down National and Big John, providing an experience for many of us to remember forever.

Our fun was not limited to the racecourse though as competitions and rivalries became hot topics of conversation. At the top of the race hills the congregations of skiers, many new to racing, built friendships and revisited old, childhood rivalries. The Mintz family of racers took opportunities to try besting each other, and let everyone know when they had. Siblings were battling for parental approvals across many other families, with the Harrison-Browns, Bruces, Ottaways, Dysons, Addisons, and more! Our community of realtors took their competitive spirit to new heights as well, with the likes of Kate Veer and Meghan Barber roasting Brayden Irwin and Paul Peterson.

All the above is a product of the GDHL having a such an enthusiastic turn out this year. This truly has been a record setting year for our race program. We had dozens of new ski racers join us, along with many first time GDHLers. The young blood is coming in, shifting the average age down. The recruitment will not stop either. Our goal is to ensure anyone with interest in joining our community feels welcome to. Next year we hope to bring in more people, so spread the word.

Thank you for the fantastic season on the slopes!

A Message from your Chair

A big THANK YOU to all of our racers this season! As Paul mentioned at the banquet 2023 had the highest number of racers ever, as well as a record number of new racers. I can't wait to see what next year holds!

A feedback survey will be sent out before the end of March. Please take a minute to tell us how we are doing and let us know how your GDHL experience can be made better.

While you only hear from myself and Doug (and @PaulTheSkiRacer) in these newsletters, there are many hands helping out behind the scenes. Your GDHL committee works hard to put together a season that is memorable and fun.

The race season would not happen without the contributions of all committee members. Thank you!

2023 GDHL Committee:

• Chris Knight

• Peter Dyson

• Carrie Lenauskas

• Michael DeAngelis

• Richard Usher-Jones

• Douglas Jarvis

• Meg Ryley

• Jamie Coulter

Sponsors

Our sponsors allow us to fill out the GDHL experience beyond the races. A big thank you to all of our sponsors this year:

• Sutherland Insurance

• Budget Propane

• Patty Mac Construction

• Sidelaunch Brewing

• Dynastar/Lange

• Squire John's

**If you are interested in sponsoring the GDHL next year (and having your company logo and social media associated with the league), or interested on serving on the GDHL committee,  send an email to gdhl@gdhl.org***

The Coyotes and Race Office help us to put on a great season. Thanks to all of the Coyotes for making sure our races run smoothly. Thanks to Dave, Alli, and Steve for helping out with logistics behind the scenes.

Glenn and his team have had their hands full this year. I recently found out how many of our new racers were really taking training seriously! Think of Glenn as the next stop after you have bought lots of new gear for your blossoming race career. Check out the coaching tip at the end this newsletter.

Banquet Recap

This year's banquet was hosted by Craigleith's very own Paul Peterson. Paul gave us a great rundown of the season, some highlights and lowlights, and walked us through the awards and recognitions. This year's banquet once again provided a nice wrap-up to the GDHL season.

Our Fearless MC, Paul Peterson (@paultheskiracer)

Thanks to King Davis (IG: @kingdavis.theband) for providing some great entertainment for the evening.

Awards (serious and not-so-serious) were given out throughout the evening. We recognized rivalries, winners, improvements, families, credit card bills, and much more. Thanks to the non-racer attendees for sitting through A LOT of inside jokes. Kudos to Carrie Laurencelle for putting on a chugging clinic!

Awards given out included:

• 1st Place Team: VORTEX

  • (Calcutta Winner: Ed Barnicke)

  • Team Members:

  • Meghan Barber

  • Ed Barnicke

  • Robbie Bruce

  • James Coulter

  • Trevor Currie

  • Brayden Irwin

  • Richard Kennedy

  • Ray Murakami

  • Paul Peterson

  • Meg Ryley

• 2nd Place Team: VENTURE

  • (Calcutta Winner: Christine Ottaway and consortium)

  • Team Members:

  • Greg Cavers

  • Roger Chiu

  • Nico Hart

  • Allan LaChance

  • James Mathers

  • Paul McCool

  • Andrew Ottaway

  • Mario Skopek

  • Shelly Spivak

  • David Staples

• 3rd Place Team: MUSILS

  • (Calcutta Winner: Tony Ciccocioppo and consortium)

  • Team Members:

  • Libby Barnicke

  • Elizabeth Hind

  • Ian Latimer

  • Patrick Pedlar

  • Robert Prusinski

  • Meghan Robinson

  • Craig Sievenpiper

  • Richard Usher-Jones

  • Marc Warren

  • Mike Welton

Individual Winners:

Women:

1. Meg Ryley

2. Katie Farrow

3. Madison Staples

Men:

1. Mike Welton

2. Ben Williams

3. Gordie Bruce

Women over 50:

1. Kate Veer

2. Leslie Sims

3. Tiana Boyman (Koffler)

Men over 50:

1. Greg Cavers

2. Jeff Sutherland

3. Allan Lachance

Greg "Sumo" Lee award for Most Improved:

1. Brent Addison

2. Ed Barnicke

3. Andrew Ottaway

Andrew, Brent, and Ed, recipients of GDHL’s highest honour

Fastest Family: (over 19 families this year!)

1. Bruce Brothers

2. Farrow Cousins

3. Cavers Boys

Rivalry Award:

• Libby Barnicke vs Dan Lacey

Many more awards given out as well!

**if you are on a winning team and did not attend the banquet, please reply back to coordinate picking up your medal**

**Cooler bags are available for pickup at the front desk as well. GDHL racers only for now. (We will make these available to our GDHL superfans in a few weeks.)**

Farewell from Doug J

As the saying goes, all things must come to and end. It is time for me, the editor of this newsletter to heed this saying and ski off into the sunset. I have loved writing for all of you over the past 5 seasons, even though a couple were cut short because of COVID. Curating material and forcing myself to write out these weekly messages through the winter has become therapeutic in a lot of ways, and yet also cumbersome and stressful at times. After all, I never ever want to let you down with a late newsletter, a spelling mistake or grammatical catastrophe. These newsletters will continue with new editors and styles.

Thank you for reading my content and thank so very much to all those who provided feedback. I am forever grateful to all of you who shared your thoughts on what I wrote about last week, even when you disagreed with me!

And a very special thank you to my copy editor, my mom – Laura Jarvis!

See you at Craigleith soon!

Jackets

The cool new look of the Niagara Escarpment are our GDHL, Karbon Jackets. Get yours before they are gone! We still have a few for sale, awaiting new owners. Email GDHL@GDHL.org to connect with a local sartorial expert. Or if you are at the club, they are also available at the front desk.

Coaches Tip from Glenn Blaylock

Craigleith Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

Forward versus Upward

Moving the body forward rather than upward during Transition allows the skier to be in a strong athletic position square over their skis and ready to apply pressure to the new outside ski. The following video shows World Cup racers moving forward as their outside leg bends or shortens during the transition to prevent the body rising or popping up. Also focus on their ankles flexed forward, the stacked leg standing against the outside ski and the level hips and shoulders.

The bending or shortening of the outside leg is not an “absorbing or retraction” movement as some pressure on the outside ski during transition will cause the ski to continue accelerating as explained and demonstrated by Paul Lorenz in one of my all time favourite videos.

We look forward to seeing you next season.

---

That is all. See you on the slopes in the coming weeks!

-Doug J

Club Championships and GDHL Banquet Weekend

This weekend is a big one for us, the GDHL’ers! On Saturday we have two races, one Slalom, one GS to determine the Club Champions, then we have our end of year banquet in the evening. It will be a busy day! For more details read on, you will also find the weekly update from our coach, Glenn Blaylock.

Club Championships

Saturday is Club Championships for Craigleith. All GDHL’ers are automatically entered in the two races, one Slalom, one GS. The start order does not follow the GDHL start list, it follows age and gender, so you will need to pick up your bib for the day on Saturday morning. You will find them in the race office, or possibly in the president’s loft in the old south, between 8 15 and 9 am on Saturday. Make sure to pick yours up.

Following the day’s races there will be an awards ceremony on the Base Lodge patio, where the club champions will be crowned. Many of you will also have an opportunity at some hardware, since you are all spectacular racers! Make sure you stick around before you head home to change for the GDHL Banquet dinner which begins at 7 pm in the base lodge.

GDHL Banquet

A message from Carrie and the GDHL Social Team

You have one (1) more opportunity to buy your tickets for the banquet so you won't have to sit at home Saturday night, being sad and lonely. Wishing you could be in on all the fun.

Today (Thursday, March 2nd) at 5pm is the cut off... officially. No more time after that - plus the ladies going to Ladies Day will be otherwise occupied and the men will be either child minding (not babysitting) or figuring out what to eat for dinner and what to pack for the weekend,

• Date: Saturday, March 4th - 7-11pm

• Where: Base Lodge

• Who: Everybody but especially those who raced this year

• Cost: $90/ticket

• BYOW (Bring your own wine) for corkage covered by the GDHL. For pairing purposes, we will be having chicken and pork.

• Music by the King Davis Band

• GDHL participants will also get a cool giveaway as well!

Good luck everybody (especially the women) in Club Champs on Saturday!

Coaches Tip from Glenn Blaylock

Craigleith Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

Craigleith Adult Racers

Friday Training, March 3, 12:30 pm: Hill: TBD, Slalom, Equipment: Slalom skis and protective equipment: guards for hands, shins and face.

Check the message board at the bottom of National Chair for the training hill.  Register On-Line by Thursday.

Thank you for slipping the hill after your last run through the course.

Coaches Tip: Leveling the Hips

During the Transition between turns we allow the outside leg to bend or shorten to prevent the body from rising up away from the snow. This action also levels the hips returning the body to the Athletic Stance square over the skis.  Sometimes; especially on steep terrain, the velocity of the outside ski may not be sufficient for the leg to level the hips. When this happens lift the heal of the outside leg as it bends or shortens during the transition. This action will level your hips and enable you to more easily start the new turn and stack the body over the new outside ski. This is a very subtle movement and should not cause the body to rise or pop up.

Deb Armstrong (former U.S.A. Ski Team) provides a very good explanation of why its important to level the hips in her following video.

---

Good Luck this weekend!

-Doug

Banquet Tickets on Sale Until 5 pm Today

Hey GDHL'ers, friends, fans and procrastinators,

Stop what you are doing.  This is your last reminder.  Seriously. 

Go to the Craigleith website and get your banquet dinner tickets. 

Don't say, I'll do it in 20 minutes. You'll forget.

If you don't get your tickets today, then you will be sitting at home Saturday night, missing out on all the fun and wondering if your team won or if Paul the Skier (top 50 finisher and Dave Robinson fanboy) mentioned you.

Tickets are on sale until midnight TONIGHT. Don't turn into a pumpkin.

The details once again: 

• Date: Saturday, March 4th - 7-11pm

• Where: Base Lodge

• Who: Everybody but especially those who raced this year

• Cost: $90/ticket

• BYOW (Bring your own wine) for corkage covered by the GDHL. For pairing purposes, we will be having chicken and pork.

Music by the King Davis Band

GDHL participants will also get a cool giveaway as well!

Again, this is your last warning.... 3rd email is the charm?  Get your tickets.

See you all there!

Get Your Banquet Tickets!

Hey GDHL'ers, friends and fans,

This is the long awaited announcement of the GDHL Banquet - this is where we see who wins all the marbles and glory! Come out and see which team came out on top and which consortium will be buying rounds for everybody.

• Date: Saturday, March 4th - 7-11pm

• Where: Base Lodge

• Who: Everybody but especially those who raced this year

• Cost $90/ticket.

• BYOW (Bring your own wine) for corkage covered by the GDHL.

• Music by the King Davis Band

• GDHL participants will also get a cool giveaway as well!

We also have to find out who won the Family award; this was a close one this year and all the other awards: best photo, most cheery cheer, most consistent, person the committee really botched the ranking on, etc. Find out if Libby Barnicke really beat Dan Lacey overall this year.

We know the turn around to buy tickets is tight (just like Paul the Ski Racers turns) but, tickets must be purchased by Tuesday, February 28th.

We will send out a reminder in a day or so as well for those procrastinators.

-Carrie Grinter-Lenauskas

Bye-Weekend

Congratulations to all GDHL’ers, we have finished our racing! The GDHL Committee, had a blast hosting this season’s races and watching you participate in fine form. Our season is not completely finished, we still have some important events on the horizon, but as far as GDHL-points racing, we can relax.

It has been an incredibly fun season! Our daytime races enjoyed the best ever turnout of racers in the history (or at least recent history) of the GDHL, each with 95-115 finishers. The night slalom had 80 finishers plus many non-GDHL’ers as guests and finished with 90+ competitors. Clearly there has been a great infusion of young, talented, good looking racers this year.

The results for our races are all on our results page here: https://gdhl.results.mectiming.org/. There is an extreme warning for those investors getting their hopes up that their team has succeeded in winning. As it stands, all results are unofficial and subject to audit per our internal GDHL competition committee. The final results will be announced at the GDHL end of year banquet.

Banquet

On the evening of Saturday, March 4th, we will be hosting our annual GDHL end of year banquet. We will be recognizing this season’s award winners, the winning teams, and those who made us laugh the hardest. There are a lot of details about this event to share, and they will be provided in a dedicated email early next week, with a link to purchase tickets.

This Weekend

There is nothing on the race calendar this weekend. It is a perfect opportunity to rest you weary, broken body that has seen you through another gritty year fighting the elements and performing at the highest level. Be sure to kick your ski boots off early on Saturday afternoon, secure a great seat at the base lodge après, and rest up for next weekend.

Club Championships

Club Championships will be on Saturday, March 4th. This is a two-race day with GS and Slalom on the docket. As it is not an official GDHL race, you may wear your downhill suit all day. All GDHL’ers are automatically entered in the races. More details will come on this next Thursday, in preparation for the final race-weekend of 2023.

Last Weekend – Dual Slalom

Finally, a reflection on last weekend’s dual slalom. Since… a few years ago, the GDHL has hosted a Dual Slalom with reception. It has taken time for us, the committee, to find a way to include all skiers, to keep it fun, and to make sure the competitive feeling was still resonating. Last weekend we explored the format again, with a simplified race that included just two runs, against the same opponent, one run on each course, and the feedback was positive. We are excited to continue to tweak this event to make it as involving, compelling, and crowd pleasing as possible. Any and all feedback on last-weekends race is welcomed and can be sent to gdhl@gdhl.org.

A lot of fun was had! The camaraderie developed by racing against your fellow competitor is unique to the dual events in alpine skiing. The start gate created an added level of excitement, some racers could barely contain their energy as the mistimed their starts as the gates opened. At the finish line many hugs, high fives and handshakes were shared as racers found themselves fully stoked and smiling ear to ear. The results as individual runs, are shared here. The (*) asterisk denotes a 1 second penalty for a DNF on a run. Racers who DNF’d one run had their successful run time doubled, then 1 second added.

The winners were:

Men:

1. Mike Welton (35.16) combined

2. Ben Williams (35.32) combined

3. Kyle Farrow (36.10) combined

Women:

1. Meg Ryley (37.57) combined

2. Devon Clarke (38.04) combined

3. Meghan Barber (39.17) combined

The racers above have had fantastic seasons, and Saturday was another chance for them to show off their prowess and poise. Other racers in the pack felt the pressure too and rose to the occasion. The following racers all finished with their best performance of the season on Saturday:

• Jeff Sutherland – 11th

• Richard Usher Jones – 15th

• Dave Raymond – 16th

• Jerry Patten – 19th

• Pat Pedlar – 20th

• Peter Dyson – 22nd

• Robert Emery – 30th

There seems to be a common theme among the gentlemen listed above. This could be called the top 30 over 30 (years old), group as they really come alive in the event that pits them head to head against their competitors!

Other notable finishes:

Leslie Sims, sweet talked her way into bib number 4 this year, but do not be fooled by it. On Saturday she finished with a time for 43.98 good for 57th place – not even her best result of the year.

Brayden Irwin 47th took down Paul Peterson 67th in the battle of young, tall real estate agents. The two have been embattled for years now, and unofficially, this result puts Brayden 6 places ahead of Paul in the season standings. Rumour has it that the winner gets to list the house of the Tambro Construction president, as he is clearly fleeing the country.

Close Calls and Ties

Since Covid, ties have gone out of style, rarely being brought out of the closet, and only for the best occasions. Yet in Sunday’s races, we had a couple. Meg Ryley and Scott McClorie tied in 6th with a time of 37.57; Craig Sievenpiper and Ed Barnicke tied in 36th with a time of 41.66, and Jason Turnpenny was just 00.01 behind them (41.67); And though not technically a tie, Brad McMullen (42.34) beat out Lesley Leech (42.35) by one millisecond, who in turn beat out Tessa Benson (42.36) by the same margin.

---

Coaches Corner with Glenn Blaylock

Craigleith Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

• Friday Training, February 24, 9:30 and 12:30 pm:

• Hill: Comet, Giant Slalom.

• Equipment: GS skis, forearm guards and hard shell helmet. 

• Register On-Line by Thursday.

Thank you for slipping the hill after your last run through the course.

Coaching Tip: Race Mantra

Congratulations to the Canadian Alpine ski team for their best result ever at the World Championships earning 4 medals tied with U.S.A and Italy and ahead of France. Special recognition to Laurence St Germain for winning the World Championship Slalom beating the greatest female racer of all time, Mikaela Shiffrin. The last time a Canadian woman won a World Championship slalom was 63 years ago. To appreciate how long ago, the win was eight years before Nancy Greene won her two Gold Medals at the 1968 Olympics. It was also eight years before Pierre Elliot Trudeau (Justin’s father) was elected Prime Minister of Canada.  It was nine years before Apollo 11 landed on the moon and sadly seven years before the Toronto Maple Leafs won their last Stanley Cup.

The Race Mantra is a word or phrase you repeat to yourself when racing. During a race you will need to let your mind and body perform the actions required to perform the skills you’ve learned during training. Skiing is a complex sport and you won’t have time to think of all the bio mechanical movements needed to navigate through a race course.  High level racers will sometimes use a Race Mantra to keep them focused on one objective. For example, it may be helpful to say to yourself during a race the word “Early” to help you focus on starting your turn as you pass the gate. Race Mantras are very personal as a word or phrase that works for one person may not resonate for someone else.

St Germain’s victory is reviewed by the following video. Be sure to watch her interview after the race where she explains how she kept repeating to herself “Go Down, Go Down” to encourage her to move her body down the hill.

Watch your email early next week for updates on the Banquet and the Club Championships. We are excited for all the fun to be had to finish out the season!

---

 See you on the slopes,

-Doug

Family Day Fun Ahead

 Another great weekend of racing that ended with a perfect patio Sunday afternoon!

The Friday Night Slalom returned as a special bonus race. Although the heavy snow kept some racers away from Lil’ John, we saw some great performances from those that were able to make it. A twist to the evening saw the brand new Dual Slalom drop-gate used as our start gate. Definitely some good practice for this weekend’s Dual Slalom.

Mark Shillum achieved his first ever top 10 finish, then promptly bronzed his skis and placed them over the Base Lodge fireplace.

Mario Skopek edged out Paul Peterson, who narrowly beat out the Mintz sisters. Those two finished within .09 seconds of each other. Both sisters narrowly edged out their husbands, seeing Stan Liberty finish 19th, while Dave Robinson posted a season-best 20th place.

Some of you may have noticed a special guest racer running the gates. Linsey Ferguson, Chair of Alpine Canada, was spotted laying down some great runs Friday Night as well.

Thanks again to Dave Campbell, Steve Milgram, and the Coyotes for making this happen.

Sunday GS Big John

Our last GS of the season saw a great turnout! The skies were sunny and the snow was fast. The course took a different route down Big John than where you would normally race, leading to some different places in the standings. Some great new warmup routines were spotted at the top of the course, which saw some excellent results for our last GS of the year.

Scott McLorie showed that closing down the Alpine Fundraiser would lead to his best finish of the season (5th). Not to be outdone, Carrie Grinter-Lenauskas had a career best 13th place finish, showing that a new pre-race warmup may be the difference maker she has been looking for.

Richard Usher-Jones and Ed Barnicke pulled away from their usual place in the standings to finish 17th and 20th respectively. Nicely done!

Speaking of pulling away, Brent Addison’s bindings decided that they didn’t want to leave the start gate on Sunday, resulting in our second start-gate ejection of the season. When asked what he had done to fix his bindings for the second run, a grin and a “nothing” was his reply. Smart move as Brent finished 8th. 

Not to be outdone, fellow auto baron Alex Addison decided he needed to beat not one but both Dyson brothers this time out, resulting in cries of “Let’s Get Awesome!” all over the patio that afternoon. 

 Taking offense to the taunting sign duct taped to Libby Barnicke’s pants, Dan Lacey put in a season best 55th place finish to show who’s boss. Don’t poke that bear!

David Staples put in a season best finish this week at 15th, only to be outdone by his daughter putting in her own season best finish at 9th. Blair McDougall showed he’s ready to join the family by increasing his points total with a nice finish this week.

Marie Mintz has a new favourite daughter and her name is Meghan. Joining the three way tie for 52nd with Susie Raymond and Steve Cryer, Meghan edged out former favourite Lauren by a country mile.

“Top Ten” Mark Shillum showed us his best effort of the (points eligible) season, finishing 40th and ensuring Brad Sproule will have to wait another day to take down the mighty Shillum.

Carlin Billington may have won the best Après award, as she was spotted on the patio sporting her bib well after the sun was dipping below the escarpment. 

All in all a great race! On to the Dual!

Standings:

Standings are now updated. You can see them at https://gdhl.results.mectiming.org. Your GDHL committee has recently handed full control of the standings to an AI program we purchased from a company called Skynet. In addition to becoming self aware,  the algorithm that governs the standings should now be accurate.

Our apologies for not having these linked directly on the GDHL website.

A refresher on points calculation:

• Points are the sum of your best 4 finishes

• Those that have less than 4 races will have their missed race calculated as an average of actual finishes, with a 10 point penalty added for each missed race.

• These averages are calculated to ensure that injuries to team members do not fully tank the team’s season. This has been done to give all team racers a chance at GDHL glory on the trophy skis above the bar

• The scoring system will be reviewed and modified this off-season

If you see someone on your team that has less than four races, it may be a good idea to give them a friendly nudge for the Dual Slalom.

Dual Slalom - Saturday 1pm - Little John (PANELLED)

This weekend sees the return of our GDHL Dual Slalom down Lil Jon (Lil Jon Yeah). Some notes on the race:

• We will be using our fancy new start gates, purchased with the assistance of the GDHL last year

• You will start against the racer with the closest bib to you at the top of the course. (#1 vs #2, #3 vs #4, etc.). If we are missing numbers, you will be assigned by the starter to the next closest racer.

• Each racer will have a run in the Blue and the Red course

• Combined time determines your finish placing

• If you do not finish one of the runs, your total time will be your other run’s time doubled with a penalty applied.

• Due to time constraints brought on by rescheduling, we will not have time for more than two runs.

• No need for full slalom gear, though some may prefer the added protection

Following the Dual Slalom: A P R E S GDHL Style! 

(From Carrie Lenauskas:) 

Congrats everybody for making it this far this year! With our final race of the year, and final day to secure those points, we will be following up our epic dual slalom with an Après in the South Lodge right after the race. Let’s reminisce about those near wins, and recount those 'what if' moments. GDHL racers, fans and friends are all welcome. In keeping with the Après in the Base Lodge - let's keep it TIGHT and BRIGHT. We are expecting big things from all of you (especially Mr. Hill, Mr. Sutherland and Mr. Peterson - no pressure lads!)

We will have beer donated by our amazing bib sponsor, Side Launch Brewery - wear your bib to get a beer! Nick from Nicholas Pearce Wines will also be on site to pour some delicious red and white wines. Pizza and munchies will be available as well.  See you all there!

 To read more about Nicholas Pearce wines, check out below.  

Working with industry-leading sommeliers, restaurants, and international winemakers, Nicholas Pearce Wines has been leading the way. with a focus on hospitality and customer service for over a decade. Their highly motivated, professional team of sommeliers and wine lovers source boutique, handcrafted wines from around the world for their clients and customers. The Nicholas Pearce Wines Portfolio is exclusive to Ontario wine drinkers and provides a wide selection in all price points, with many priced under $25 per bottle, all delivered right to your front door.

www.npwines.com

A Note from Adult Racing Head Coach Glenn Blaylock:

Craigleith Adult Racers: Friday Training

• Date: Friday, February 17

• Time: 9:30 to 11:30 am / 12:30 to 2:30

• Hill: Lower Millennium

• Discipline: Panelled Slalom

• Equipment: Slalom skis, forearm guards and hard-shell helmet.

• Coaches: Glenn Blaylock and Greg Roe

• Register On-Line by Thursday.

Thank you for slipping the hill after your last run through the course.

Coaches Tip from Glenn Blaylock, Craigleith Head Coach, Adult Race Programs

Coaches Tip: Transition

Completing the turn and starting the next; often called the Transition, will depend on many factors including snow conditions, steepness of terrain and how the course was set. On flatter terrain rolling your ankles in a High Tuck position may be enough to change direction. On steeper terrain where the ski is bending the following is more appropriate and based on the Norwegian and Canadian method.  

When the ski is carving the outside leg is Standing Against the ski. Start releasing pressure against the outside ski when the direction towards the next gate has been achieved. Maintain some pressure on the ski as it releases to allow the ski to complete its carving action. Edge angle and ankle flexion gradually decrease.  Allow the leg to bend or shorten to prevent the body from rising up away from the snow. As the pressure is being released start applying pressure to the new outside ski. At the same time start moving your core forward over your skis and rolling your ankles to tip the skis on edge. With an Athletic Body Stance use Ankle Flexion to build 100 percent pressure against the new outside ski. When skiing short radius slalom turns the Transition happens quickly.  With longer radius turns including Giant Slalom there will be a moment when your skis are gliding flat on the snow before the skis are rolled on edge.

Skiing is a sport of movements not poses so these actions are progressive and fluid.

The following short video explains and demonstrates this Transition method well.  It’s a bit technical but worth watching.

Watch how World Cup racers move their core forward during the transition between turns.  The core action starts early in the transition and finishes with a pole plant/touch or sometimes no wrist action at all. The primary focus is using the core muscles including back and abs to move the body forward. Also watch for the parallel shins.

Ski with Purpose

Glenn 

That’s it for this week! See you all on Saturday at 1pm on Lil Jon for the Dual Slalom. Yeeeah!

-Brook