Trip Recap: Sugar Bowl, Tahoe

Our recent trip to Sugar Bowl in Tahoe was packed with competition, learning moments, and plenty of fun both on and off the hill. With a slopestyle course featuring two rails and three jumps, athletes were challenged to bring their best skiing while adapting to quickly changing conditions. Mixed weather throughout the week meant rain, soft snow, and slushy conditions, but the team made the most of it. As the snow softened during the day, the jumps became playful and the landings forgiving, making for some fun laps on the course.

Several athletes had standout moments in the competition. One skier put down some of his strongest runs of the season and earned a Futures result! Parker also reached Futures finals for the first time, a big milestone that came after quickly learning the course and competing against a talented field with very limited training laps. Tucker was excited to land a new trick, a switch cork 720 with a mute grab, during his second competition back.

Weather and scheduling meant that many athletes had very little time to train on the full course, with some only getting four practice laps before competing. Zach reflected on how challenging it was to plan a run with such little training time, especially while hoping to include new tricks, but was still happy to put his run down and take away lessons about adapting to any conditions. Jace had a similar realization, recognizing how important it is to get comfortable with features quickly rather than waiting too long to dial things in.

Not every competition went as planned, but those moments also brought important lessons. Vivian ultimately stepped away from the competition when the course conditions and limited training made it difficult to feel comfortable. While frustrating in the moment, the experience helped her recognize the importance of working through mental blocks and building confidence both on skis and mentally.

Throughout the trip, coaches Chris and Breeze provided steady support with clear feedback on runs and encouragement both on and off the hill. Off the mountain, the team enjoyed exploring Truckee, eating good food, and making a stop at Woodward. Between the competition, slushy ski days, and time spent together as a team, the trip was a great experience and an opportunity for everyone to learn, progress, and build confidence heading into the rest of the season.