SVSEF Freeski Opens USASA Competition Season with Strong Results in Jackson Hole
Podium finishes in slopestyle and rail jam highlight strong early-season preparation
Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) Freeski team athletes kicked off their USASA competition season with a strong and encouraging weekend at Jackson Hole, WY, marking the team's first slopestyle event of the year. Athletes competed across slopestyle and rail jam disciplines, delivering podium performances that reflected solid early-season preparation and progression.
The Jackson Hole USASA event provided an important benchmark for the Freeski program, with athletes showing confidence, creativity, and consistency in competitive settings. Across both Open and Age Class divisions, SVSEF athletes earned multiple podium finishes and demonstrated strong performances throughout the field.
“It was great to see the athletes put their training into action this early in the season,” said SVSEF Freeski Program Director Tyler Conway. “The level of riding, focus, and progression we saw throughout the weekend was a strong indicator of where the team is headed.” Overall, the weekend represented a strong start to the competitive season and set a positive tone moving forward as athletes continue to build momentum through winter.
SVSEF Athlete Results
Slopestyle
Barrett Beyer - 2nd place, Open Class
Abe Gross - 1st place, Age Class
Van Ericksen - 3rd place, Age Class
Trandon Smart - 3rd place, Age Class
Rail Jam
Kai Van Bueren - 2nd place, Open Class
Van Ericksen - 2nd place, Age Class
The Freeski team will host USASA competition at Dollar Mountain January 30 – February 1.
Photo: SVSEF Freeski athlete Abe Gross secures first place in Slopestyle.
Sunny Skies and Strong Slalom Progress in Season’s Second Edition of Pastry Cup
SVSEF Alpine North Series tradition continues with emphasis on race prep and skill progression
The 2025-26 season’s second iteration of the Pastry Cup returned to Rotatrun on Sunday, January 25 offering Sun Valley Ski Education (SVSEF) Alpine U12 North Series athletes a chance to continue to put training and racing skills to the test in a festive, fun-focused environment.
Designed as a fun, development-focused competition, the Pastry Cup continues to play an important role in preparing young racers for the North Series calendar. With sunny skies, comfortable temperatures, and excellent snow conditions, athletes were able to push their limits while reinforcing strong fundamentals in the gates.
“What a perfect day for our second Pastry Cup!” said SVSEF Alpine North Series Team Head Coach Claudia Stern. “Everyone skied hard and fast and showed how much they have been working on their Slalom skiing these past few weeks.”
As the season continues, Pastry Cup events will continue to be a valuable checkpoint – reinforcing the importance of process, patience and consistent effort while keeping the joy of skiing front and center.
SVSEF Athlete Results
Girls Slalom Top Results
1st – Alta (Run 1: 25.03 | Run 2: 24.96 | Total: 49.99)
2nd – Marie (26.14 | 25.98 | 52.12)
3rd – Kayla (26.25 | 27.51 | 53.76)
4th – DillPickle (28.71 | 28.44 | 57.15)
5th – Tea (29.27 | 28.76 | 58.03)
6th – D. Money (28.90 | 29.32 | 58.21)
7th – Freya (30.09 | 29.28 | 59.37)
8th – Ivy (30.28 | 29.10 | 59.38)
9th – Blakely (29.98 | 29.79 | 59.77)
10th – Rienza (31.57 | 30.01 | 61.58)
11th – Lexi (31.18 | 31.38 | 62.56)
12th – Estelle (31.59 | 31.41 | 63.00)
13th – Riley (32.18 | 32.63 | 64.81)
14th – Eleanor H (32.15 | 32.70 | 64.85)
15th – Lila (32.40 | 32.46 | 64.86)
16th – PayPal (33.15 | 34.25 | 67.39)
17th – Rosie (34.15 | 34.16 | 68.31)
18th – Chandler (34.25 | 34.08 | 68.33)
19th – Tindsley (35.01 | 33.37 | 68.38)
20th – Maude (35.10 | 36.00 | 71.10)
21st – Amelia (45.93 | 26.70 | 72.63)
22nd – Eleanor R (35.73 | 38.05 | 73.78)
23rd – Stella (35.78 | 47.83 | 83.60)
— Morgan — DNF (35.02)
Boys Slalom Top Results
1st – Walker (Run 1: 24.41 | Run 2: 24.32 | Total: 48.74)
2nd – Asa (25.74 | 25.34 | 51.08)
3rd – DSmiley (26.90 | 26.37 | 53.27)
4th – Evan (26.99 | 26.44 | 53.43)
5th – Vance (27.21 | 27.32 | 54.53)
6th – Keller (28.84 | 29.54 | 58.38)
7th – Cole (29.54 | 29.18 | 58.71)
8th – Tucker (30.20 | 30.78 | 60.98)
9th – Dillon W (32.26 | 32.03 | 64.29)
10th – Tommy (31.62 | 33.37 | 64.99)
11th – Blaise (34.18 | 31.39 | 65.57)
12th – Jayden (38.14 | 38.67 | 76.81)
— Graham — DSQ (31.55)
Photo: Girls top three podium: Alta Questad, Marie McNeal, Kayla Kloster. Boys top three podium: Walker Gove, Asa Sattler, D. Smiley.
SVSEF Alpine U16 and U14 Athletes Build Speed and Confidence in Jackson Hole
Podium finishes and fast racing across three Super G races at Wes Barron Speed Series
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation Alpine U16 Team and second-year U14 athletes recently traveled to Jackson Hole Mountain Resort from January 23-26 for the Wes Barron Speed Series. The four-day event featured three Super G (SG) races for both men and women and was a U16 Regional and Tri-Divisional Championship qualifying event.
The Wes Barron Speed Series welcomed more than 150 athletes from across the Intermountain Division. SVSEF athletes were greeted with outstanding race conditions and challenging courses that tested speed, technique and confidence.
“SVSEF athletes performed well and gained confidence run-to-run throughout the series,” said U16 Head coach Nate Schwing. “Racing Super G provides a valuable progression where athletes take four runs down the racing piste on different course sets. By the final run, our athletes had the confidence to push their comfort zones and attack the hill and course.”
SVSEF Alpine U16 and second-year U14 women delivered consistent top results across the three-race series, led by Neena DeGennaro with a third-place finish in SG #1 and a runner-up finish in SG #2, while Bianca Smith claimed second place in SG #3 and added two additional top-five finishes. Savannah Pringle dominated the U14 field, earning first place among U14 athletes in all three races, including a ninth-place overall finish in SG #1.
On the men’s side, Paxton Harris highlighted the weekend with a second-place podium finish in SG #3 after placing fifth and sixth in the opening races, while Henry Questad secured a third-place finish in the final SG. Many SVSEF athletes finished inside the top 15 throughout the series, showcasing depth, consistency, and strong progression on Jackson Hole’s demanding Super G terrain.
SVSEF Athlete Results
Women’s Super G #1
3rd – Neena DeGennaro (U16)
5th – Bianca Smith (U16)
9th – Savannah Pringle (U14) (9th overall, 1st U14)
15th – Alexandra Heidel (U16)
Women’s Super G #2
2nd – Neena DeGennaro (U16)
5th – Bianca Smith (U16)
11th – Savannah Pringle (U14) (1st U14)
14th – Alexandra Heidel (U16)
Women’s Super G #3
2nd – Bianca Smith (U16)
5th – Neena DeGennaro (U16)
8th – Savannah Pringle (U14) (1st U14)
17th – Alexandra Heidel (U16)
Men’s Super G #1
6th – Paxton Harris (U16)
7th – Henry Questad (U16)
9th – Wyatt Limburg (U16)
11th – Corbin Flood (U16)
16th – Brooks Gove (U16)
Men’s Super G #2
5th – Paxton Harris (U16)
8th – Corbin Flood (U16)
9th – Henry Nordstrom (U16)
12th – Henry Questad (U16)
13th – Wyatt Limburg (U16)
18th – Brooks Gove (U16)
20th – Cam Beck (U16)
Men’s Super G #3
2nd – Paxton Harris (U16)
3rd – Henry Questad (U16)
10th – Corbin Flood (U16)
12th – Wyatt Limburg (U16)
17th – Jake Schlatter (U16)
18th – Cam Beck (U16)
20th – Henry Nordstrom (U16)
Photo: Paxton Harris secures second place in the Men's Super G race #3 in Jackson Hole
Complete results for each race may be found here: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/
Up Next for the Alpine U16 USSS Team: SVSEF will host the 35th Annual Laura Flood Memorial Race in Sun Valley Feb. 19-24
SVSEF Alpine U16 IMC Team Delivers Podium Performances at Snowbird Qualifier
Multiple podiums highlight first qualifying events of the season for U16 tech racers
Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s Alpine U16 IMC team competed January 11-14 at Snowbird Resort in the Snowbird IMC Qualifier, the first of three qualifying events for the U16 Regional Championships and Tri-Divisional Championships. The four-day event featured two slalom (SL) and two giant slalom (GS) races with deep fields for men and women.
Snowbird delivered ideal racing conditions throughout the series. SVSEF athletes remained focused and adaptable across the demanding schedule, showing composure and commitment from run to run as they kicked off their competitive qualifying race season.
“The Alpine U16s competed well at Snowbird in our first divisional qualifiers for U16 Regionals and Tri-Divisional Championships,” said SVSEF Alpine U16 head coach Nate Schwing. “We were greeted with four consecutive bluebird days with quality racing surfaces. Our athletes were locked in for four days of racing. They did well adapting daily and committed to giving their all from run to run on race day. A lot of positives were taken away from this series, and now we train towards our next race series, competing in Super G at the Wes Barron in Jackson.”
SVSEF athletes posted strong results throughout the Snowbird IMC Qualifier, highlighted by multiple podium finishes across slalom and giant slalom. Neena DeGennaro led the women with second-place finishes in both giant slalom races, along with a second-place finish in slalom, while Bianca Smith earned a third-place finish in giant slalom. On the men’s side, Paxton Harris captured a first-place finish in slalom and followed up with a second-place result in giant slalom, while Corbin Flood secured a first-place finish in giant slalom. Colter Bengston added to the podium count with a second-place finish in giant slalom and multiple top-ten results across the series.
SVSEF Athlete Results:
U16 Women’s SL #1 Jan. 11
5th – Neena DeGennaro
8th – Jasmine Smiley
14th – Piper Spengler
15th – Bianca Smith
16th Colette Duke
U16 Men’s SL #1 Jan. 11
7th – Henry Questad
U16 Women’s SL #2 Jan. 12
2nd – Neena DeGennaro
8th – Jasmine Smiley
9th – Piper Spengler
14th – Bianca Smith
15th – Olivia Harrington
16th – Camille Reid
18th – Colette Duke
U16 Men’s SL #2 Jan. 12
1st – Paxton Harris
7th – Colter Bengston
8th – Henry Questad
18th – Cameron Beck
U16 Women’s GS #1 Jan. 13
2nd – Neena DeGennaro
5th – Bianca Smith
11th – Jasmine Smiley
15th – Colette Duke
18th – Alexandra Heidel
20th – Piper Spengler
U16 Men’s GS #1 Jan. 13
1st – Corbin Flood
2nd – Colter Bengston
7th – Jake Schlatter
8th – Henry Questsd
13th – Brooks Gove
U16 Women’s GS #2 Jan. 14
2nd – Neena DeGennaro
3rd – Bianca Smith
9th – Jasmine Smiley
16th – Colette Duke
17th – Alexandra Heidel
U16 Men’s GS #2 Jan. 14
2nd – Paxton Harris
6th – Colter Bengston
7th – Cameron Beck
8th – Wyatt Limburg
15th – Henry Nordstrom
17th – Brooks Gove
18th – Kai Sammis
Photo: Corbin Flood in first place and Colter Bengston in second in GS #1, January 13th
For complete U16 IMD race results, click on the following link and go to the U16 Series button: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/
Four SVSEF Athletes to Represent Team USA at 2026 Winter Olympic Games
Sarchett, Smith, Hagenbuch make Olympic debut, Josey earns hat trick to third Olympic Games
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation (SVSEF) is proud to announce that four of its athletes—Ryder Sarchett (Alpine), Sammy Smith (Cross Country), John Steel Hagenbuch (Cross Country), and Chase Josey (Snowboard Halfpipe)—have been officially selected for the 2026 U.S. Olympic Team.
Selection to the U.S. Olympic Team represents the highest level of achievement in winter sport, and these athletes’ nominations reflect years of dedication, growth both on and off the snow, perseverance, and excellence on the national and international stage. The 2026 Winter Olympic Games will be held in Milan-Cortina, Italy, bringing together the world’s top winter sport athletes.
“I am incredibly proud of our athletes and what they’ve accomplished,” said Scott McGrew, Executive Director of SVSEF. “To see four Olympians emerge from our small mountain community is really extraordinary, and it speaks not only to their individual dedication and talent, but to the deep Olympic heritage that has shaped Sun Valley for generations. Our Wood River Valley home carries such a rich history of excellence, opportunity, and belief in what young athletes can become; that legacy continues with this amazing group of humans.”
These four athletes selected to represent Team USA came up through three different SVSEF programs and snowsport disciplines: Alpine, Cross Country, and Snowboarding.
“To see this level of achievement across three different programs and disciplines is no accident,” said McGrew. “It reflects years of intentional work and collaborations by our coaches, staff, families, and partners to create the right opportunities, at the right moments, with the right people, and in the right measure as athletes grow and develop within our programs here at SVSEF. We are deeply committed to supporting athletes over the long arc of their journey, not rushing outcomes, while building strong foundations that allow extraordinary potential to be realized. It's so rewarding to see this come together for our athletes and our community.”
Each athlete brings a unique competitive background shaped by their development at SVSEF.
Ryder Sarchett
Ryder Sarchett, an SVSEF alpine program alum, was named to the U.S. Olympic Team for the 2026 Winter Games following a series of consistent results in international competition including a top 10 finish at the World Cup in Val d’Isere. Sarchett developed through SVSEF’s Alpine program before advancing to national, collegiate, and World Cup-level racing. He is making his Olympic debut.
“The path I’ve taken to become an Olympian is built on hard work and belief in my own abilities, choosing to go after my dream even through the hard times when it felt almost impossible,” said Ryder Sarchett. “My love for skiing and sports in general played a huge role in my success as a skier. I truly loved skiing, and I held onto that. My parents were always very calm and never pushed me into ski racing; they made me feel like I was choosing to be there. I’d like to give thanks to everyone who helped me along the way. I'm really grateful to be here and there are so many people that helped me get here.”
Sammy Smith
Sammy Smith’s path to the Olympic Games has been defined by determination and steady progression. A longtime SVSEF athlete from development through the SVSEF XC Gold Team, Smith has built a reputation as a fierce competitor with a deep love for the sport, earning national and international success that culminated in Olympic selection.
“The Olympics have been a dream of mine for as long as I can remember, there is nothing more special than getting to represent your country, and I couldn’t be more excited to represent Team USA at the Olympic level,” said Sammy Smith. “I can’t wait to immerse myself in the experience, cheer on my fellow teammates, and hopefully have an opportunity to do some great racing of my own.”
John Steel Hagenbuch
John Steel Hagenbuch developed his talent through SVSEF’s Cross Country program and then on to NCAA racing for Dartmouth College, as a member of the U.S. Cross Country Ski Team, and also the SVSEF XC Gold Team. Known for his confidence, Hagenbuch brings both experience and momentum into his Olympic debut.
“The path to becoming an Olympian has been a steady progression with years of hard work, sacrifice, and dedication,” said John Steel Hagenbuch. “There are always ups and downs, strikes and gutters, and I’m incredibly honored to represent Team USA at the highest level. I’m looking forward to representing the USA, Dartmouth, SVSEF, my family, and my friends at the highest level. Race starts aren’t decided yet, but I’m hopeful to have the opportunity to give it my all!”
Chase Josey
Chase Josey, an SVSEF alum and Sun Valley native, was named to the U.S. Olympic Team for the 2026 Winter Games, marking the third Olympic selection in his career.
“Being named to the Olympic team this year is probably even more meaningful than the first two because the challenges getting here were greater,” said Chase Josey. “Through all the anticipation and a lot of what-ifs, I’m embracing the overall experience and am proud of the path I’ve taken as a strong ambassador for the sport and for my team. I hope I can be an inspiration and a role model for the next generations in snowboarding.”
More details about each athlete, including event schedules and competition dates, will be shared as they become available.
PHOTOS: @usskiteam @ussnowboardteam
About Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation
Since its inception in 1966, the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation has been a longstanding pillar in the community, providing snowsport programs and offering academic assistance to support student-athletes in reaching their highest potential. SVSEF offers an array of programs for athletes ages five and up, from learn-to-ski and ride through FIS and other national and international-level competition. The organization distributes more than $500,000 annually in financial assistance to families, so that anyone who wishes to may participate. For more information, please visit svsef.org.
###
Media Contact:
Heather Foster
Director of Strategic Communications & Development
[email protected]
208-860-5353 mobile
SVSEF Launches Journey to Gold Fund
An SVSEF initiative supporting the unseen work behind world-class performance
WHY THIS FUND EXISTS
As the 2026 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games quickly approach, Sun Valley and the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation are once again preparing to send athletes to represent the United States on the world’s biggest stage. This moment continues a proud legacy of Sun Valley developing elite winter sport athletes grounded in our community’s traditions and values. Athletes like Gretchen Fraser, Pete Patterson, Christin Cooper, Reggie Crist, Picabo Street, Kaitlyn Farrington, Morgan Arritola, Chase Josey, Jake Adicoff, and Jesse Keefe to name a few.
At the Olympic level, talent and preparation are assumed, and National Teams provide the essential infrastructure to get there. What often separates athletes and determines success are the less visible elements of performance—conviction in the athlete’s potential, trusted familiarity, emotional grounding, and guidance from people who have been deeply invested in their lifelong Olympic journey.
The SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund supports the people and relationships surrounding Team USA athletes connected to Sun Valley—their mentors, families, and trusted support networks—meeting each athlete where they are and supporting what they need most. This flexible structure allows us to respond as team nominations and opportunities continue to unfold across all disciplines, respect individual needs and sensitivities, and invest strategically where support makes the greatest impact.
INITIAL ALLOCATION OF FUNDS
As we work to support Ryder Sarchett as our first officially nominated 2026 Olympian and await further announcements, the initial allocation from this fund will leverage the long-standing athlete-coach relationship between Ryder and his trusted coach and mentor, Will Brandenburg, within the broader framework of the Olympic Games. This support is designed to complement the exceptional work already being done by U.S. Ski & Snowboard’s national team coaching staff—reinforcing the belief that achieving Olympic excellence requires both a village, and a nation, working in concert.
Support through this fund will ensure Ryder's mentorship continues through final pre-Games preparation and competition. This is exactly the type of strategic, high-impact investment this fund was created to make—supporting the intangibles that elevate performance at the highest level.
Ryder’s qualification represents not only a personal milestone, but a historic achievement for Sun Valley and American alpine skiing.
Ryder is the first male alpine skier from Sun Valley to compete in the Winter Olympic Games since Reggie Crist raced downhill at the 1992 Albertville Games. Even more remarkably, Ryder is the first male technical alpine racer from Sun Valley to reach the Olympic Games in more than 45 years, following in the lineage of legends like Pete Patterson who last competed in the technical disciplines at the 1980 Lake Placid Games.
Ryder’s nomination sparked the creation of this fund to help make the most of the rare opportunities for Sun Valley athletes to excel among the world's best.
OUR COMMITMENT TO SUN VALLEY ATHLETES AND AN INVITATION TO THE COMMUNITY
With the support and generosity of a lead donor, SVSEF has proactively launched the SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund, offering a dollar-for-dollar match of community contributions up to $10,000. This reflects our wholehearted belief that community support should extend to the people and relationships that shape an athlete’s success—beginning early, remaining consistent, and carrying athletes through the most critical moments of their careers.
We invite our community to participate in supporting the SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund, helping ensure that our athletes across all disciplines carry the strength of Sun Valley with them as they compete at the 2026 Olympic Games and beyond!
Support the SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund through the Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation. Donations are tax-deductible. SVSEF is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. EIN 82-0264946
To make a donation to the SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund:
- Click on the link below – this is a unique link to support the SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund.
- If you would like to give this gift in tribute, please specify in the fields provided.
- If you would like to send a message, please include in the Comments box.
Support SVSEF Journey to Gold Fund: https://tinyurl.com/svsefjourneytogoldfund
The Pastry Cup: Where Preparation Meets Powdered Sugar
Focus on fun, race-day prep define North Series tradition
If you’ve ever spotted a group of young racers nervously clicking into skis with one eye on the clock and the other on a box of pastries, you’ve likely stumbled upon the legendary Pastry Cup.
Since 2018, the Pastry Cup has been a staple of the SVSEF Alpine North Series team experience. The event was created by coaches Adele Savaria and Claudia Stern as a way to introduce young racers to the foundational elements of ski racing in a supportive, low-pressure environment. Originally held as a tune-up ahead of the first North Series race of the season, the Pastry Cup gave athletes a chance to practice race-day logistics, time management, and equipment preparation before results truly mattered.
Today, a Pastry Cup is held before every North Series race, giving athletes repeated opportunities to dial in their routines and arrive at competitions feeling prepared and confident having already had the chance to practice their pre-race routine. Each event mirrors race-day expectations while maintaining an emphasis on learning, preparation, and fun. After the race, all athletes enjoy a pastry or treat, with the top three finishers earning first, second, and third taking their choice of the baked goods.
More than a race, the Pastry Cup reflects the creativity and dedication of SVSEF’s coaching staff and the values that define the program as a whole. By prioritizing preparation, teamwork, and enjoyment alongside skill progression, the Pastry Cup helps athletes develop strong habits that carry forward throughout the season.
Photos: Above, podium finishers from the most recent Pastry Cup in 2026. Below, podium finishers from the original Pastry Cup held in 2018!
Pastry Cup # 1 Results – January 4, 2026
|
Bib # |
First |
Last |
Run 1 |
Run 2 |
Total Time |
|
Girls |
|||||
|
17 |
Alta |
Questad |
16.06 |
15.54 |
31.60 |
|
30 |
Kayla |
Kloster |
16.24 |
15.50 |
31.74 |
|
20 |
DMoney |
Spengler |
16.23 |
15.94 |
32.17 |
|
5 |
Rienza |
Buonchristiani |
16.61 |
16.08 |
32.69 |
|
7 |
Amelia |
Beck |
16.47 |
16.30 |
32.77 |
|
27 |
Marie |
McNeal |
16.50 |
16.42 |
32.92 |
|
26 |
Blakely |
Martens |
16.83 |
16.30 |
33.13 |
|
15 |
Estelle |
Turzian |
17.06 |
16.95 |
34.01 |
|
16 |
Tea |
Smither |
17.22 |
16.85 |
34.07 |
|
24 |
Chandler |
Letson |
17.72 |
17.18 |
34.90 |
|
35 |
DillPickle |
Meyer |
17.38 |
17.8 |
35.18 |
|
9 |
Eleanor H |
Hopeman |
17.98 |
17.33 |
35.31 |
|
11 |
Tindsley |
Glenne |
18.21 |
17.20 |
35.41 |
|
8 |
Ivy |
McNamara |
18.05 |
17.53 |
35.58 |
|
6 |
Maude |
Bates |
18.07 |
17.80 |
35.87 |
|
12 |
Mckenna |
Mccarthy |
17.91 |
18.03 |
35.94 |
|
13 |
Eleanor R |
Robinson |
18.75 |
17.56 |
36.31 |
|
22 |
Morgan |
Thomas |
18.57 |
18.39 |
36.96 |
|
31 |
Lexi |
Barthel |
18.44 |
18.70 |
37.14 |
|
28 |
Lila |
VanderWyst |
17.78 |
19.54 |
37.32 |
|
33 |
Rosie |
Hill |
18.91 |
18.52 |
37.43 |
|
25 |
Riley |
Copperman |
19.44 |
19.17 |
38.61 |
|
Boys |
|||||
|
34 |
Asa |
Sattler |
15.25 |
14.91 |
30.16 |
|
18 |
Walker |
Gove |
15.55 |
15.39 |
30.94 |
|
2 |
Evan |
McGregor |
16.40 |
15.60 |
32.00 |
|
29 |
Vance |
Gardiner |
16.20 |
15.98 |
32.18 |
|
36 |
Cole |
Martens |
16.74 |
16.53 |
33.27 |
|
19 |
Graham |
Lyle |
17.05 |
16.43 |
33.48 |
|
4 |
Keller |
Spachman |
16.90 |
16.80 |
33.70 |
|
32 |
DSmiley |
Smiley |
17.38 |
16.40 |
33.78 |
|
10 |
Tucker |
Thurston |
17.29 |
16.85 |
34.14 |
|
3 |
Dillon W |
Wells |
17.47 |
16.90 |
34.37 |
|
21 |
Tommy |
Banta |
17.47 |
17.25 |
34.72 |
|
1 |
Blaise |
Terra |
17.96 |
19.40 |
37.36 |
|
23 |
Jayden |
Orihuela |
19.07 |
19.21 |
38.28 |
|
14 |
AJ |
Tooley |
20.13 |
19.30 |
39.43 |
Snowmaker Classic Race Kicks off the Season in Support of SVSEF XC Program
2nd-Annual race at Lake Creek sees strong attendance and fun atmosphere
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s (SVSEF) Cross Country (XC) program hosted the 2026 Snowmaker Classic race to celebrate the start of the Nordic ski season with a community-wide race in support of SVSEF’s cross-country program.
The Snowmaker Classic is a fun and inclusive race for all ages and abilities and, alongside the Après Snowmaker Fundraiser, is dedicated to raising critical funds for the SVSEF XC program and the facilities that support it. Funds raised through the event directly sustain essential resources supporting more than 220 SVSEF XC athletes.
The classic technique race welcomed 74 competitors ranging in age from 6 to 78, who competed across four distances: 1 km, 2.5 km, 5 km, and 10 km. Athletes of all ages enjoyed ideal racing conditions on the recently opened Lake Creek Trails, making for a memorable early-season event.
“It was a gorgeous day and the perfect way for our community to kick off the XC ski season,” said SVSEF XC Assistant Program Director Kelley Yeates. “Events like the Snowmaker Classic highlight the strength of our local Nordic community and the shared excitement for another winter on snow.”
SVSEF extends its sincere thanks to all competitors, volunteers, supporters, and sponsors who made the event possible, with special appreciation to the Blaine County Recreation District (BCRD) for exceptional trail grooming.
Looking ahead, the SVSEF XC Team will travel to Utah for its first Junior National Qualifier of the season Jan. 21–24. The next SVSEF community Nordic event, the Town Sprints, will take place Feb. 4 in Ketchum.
For complete race results, click on the link: https://www.webscorer.com/race?raceid=417716
SVSEF Alpine U12 North Series Team Opens Season at Grand Targhee
Strong podium finishes and personal bests mark first race of the year
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s Alpine U12 North Series Team kicked off its 2026 race season Jan. 10–11 at Grand Targhee Resort, competing in the Grand Targhee North Series Qualifier. The two-day event featured two giant slalom (GS) races and marked the first North Series qualifier of the year, as well as the first-ever ski race for several SVSEF athletes.
“This was our first North Series qualifier of the year and the first ski race for several of our athletes,” said Claudia Stern, Head Coach of SVSEF’s Alpine U12 North Series Team. “Everyone showed up with purpose and drive ready to give it their best. We were lucky with some of the best race conditions we have had at this resort—cold temps, a firm surface, and clear skies. In between race runs, kids enjoyed themselves with some great powder skiing. Targhee delivered! We saw some great skiing with podiums for some and personal bests for a lot of our racers.”
Saturday’s GS saw excellent results from the SVSEF girls, led by Kayla Kloster’s second place finish, followed by Marie McNeal in fourth and Amelia Beck in sixth. The boys also raced very well, with Ford Rixon topping the podium with a first-place finish, Asa Sattler securing third, and Walker Gove finishing eighth.
Sunday’s GS races capped off a strong weekend for SVSEF North Series racers, as athletes throughout the field continued to build confidence and record personal best results with standout performances from both the girls and boys. The girls were led by Alta Questad’s second place finish, with Kloster in fourth and McNeal finishing fifth. For the boys, Asa Sattler delivered a commanding performance to claim first place, supported by strong top-ten finishes from Dylan Smiley in fifth and Gove securing eighth.
SVSEF Athlete Results
U12 Girls GS Jan. 10
2nd - Kayla Kloster
4th - Marie McNeal
6th - Amelia Beck
8th - Dylan Meyer
9th - Blakely Martens
11th - Sophie Robins
12th - Dylan Spengler
13th - Teodora Smither
14th - Rienza Buoncristiani
16th - Mckenna McCarthy
17th - Freya Moffat
22nd - Chandler Letson
24th - Lexi Barthel
25th - Stella Smith
27th - Ivy McNamara
29th - Eleanor Hopeman
32nd - Tindsley Glenne
36th - Lila Vanderwyst
39th - Payton Minor
40th - Maude Bates
41st - Blakeslee Tindall
42nd - Rosie Hill
45th - Riley Copperman
46th - Morgan Thomas
50th - Eleanor Robinson
67th - Rose Vanderwyst
U12 Boys GS Jan. 10
1st - Ford Rixon
3rd - Asa Sattler
8th - Walker Gove
12th - Dylan Smiley
14th - Evan McGregor
22nd - Keller Spachman
23rd - Tucker Thurston
25th - Graham Lyle
27th - Cole Martens
37th - Dillon Wells
39th - Tommy Banta
42nd - Nathan Sattler
44th - Samuel Sattler
47th - Anderson Tooley
60th - Jayden Orihuela
U12 Girls GS Jan. 11
2nd - Alta Questad
4th - Kayla Kloster
5th - Marie McNeal
8th - Dylan Meyer
9th - Sophie Robins
10th - Teodora Smither
12th - Mckenna McCarthy
15th - Rienza Buoncristiani
16th - Freya Moffat
17th - Ivy McNamara
18th - Estelle Turzian
19th - Chandler Letson
23rd - Tindsley Glenne
25th - Eleanor Hopeman
26th - Lexi Barthel
30th - Payton Minor
35th - Stella Smith
37th - Lila Vanderwyst
38th - Riley Copperman
39th - Maude Bates
43rd - Morgan Thomas
44th - Rosie Hill
46th - Blakeslee Tindall
65th - Rose Vanderwyst
U12 Boys GS Jan. 11
1st - Asa Sattler
5th - Dylan Smiley
8th - Walker Gove
9th - Vance Gardiner
15th - Evan McGregor
21nd - Cole Martens
29th - Tucker Thurston
33rd - Dillon Wells
36nd - Graham Lyle
38th - Nathan Sattler
39th - Samuel Sattler
40th - Blaise Terra
47th - Tommy Banta
49th - Anderson Tooley
For complete North Series race results, click on the following link and go to the "North Series" button: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/
Photo: Asa Sattler raced to the top step on Sunday's Boys GS Race
SVSEF Alpine U14 IMD Team Shines at Snow King Qualifier
With three podium finishes, Savannah Pringle races to overall race series title
The Sun Valley Ski Education Foundation’s Alpine U14 IMD Team traveled to Snow King in Jackson Hole, WY January 9-11 to compete in the Snow King Qualifier. The three-day event featured two slalom (SL) races and one giant slalom (GS) and served as an important qualifying opportunity within the Intermountain Division. Athletes found excellent snow conditions and a competitive field, delivering impressive performances across all three days of racing.
“Conditions were on point and it was a great race!” said Second Year Alpine U14 IMD Head Coach Angelica Birkner. “Our performance from our athletes was outstanding. This was an important qualifier, and the team showed confidence, focus, and determination from start to finish.”
The weekend opened with a slalom race on Friday, where SVSEF athletes dominated the women’s field with Savannah Pringle earning the win, followed closely by Mia Huey in second place. Brianna Smiley just missed the podium finishing fourth. In the men’s race, Alex Grant led the team with an 11th place finish.
The second slalom race on Saturday saw continued success, with both Huey and Pringle remarkably sharing the top step of the women’s podium in first! The men posted several solid results as well, led by Grant in sixth place.
The Snow King Qualifier concluded on Sunday with GS, where SVSEF athletes again secured multiple podium finishes. Grant finished the weekend on a strong note taking third place for the men in the GS. Huey and Pringle finished second and third respectively in the women’s race. Awards were presented to the top five men and women in the race series, with Savannah Pringle taking the women’s overall win.
SVSEF Athlete Results
U14 Women SL Jan. 9
1st - Savannah Pringle
2nd - Mia Huey
4th - Brianna Smiley
20th - Madlein Bakker
23rd - Halley McGrew
24th - Makenna Steel
30th - Stevie Crist
U14 Men SL Jan. 9
11th - Alex Grant
20th - Halsted Bruun
26th - Reid Wilke
32nd - Hunter Gove
U14 Women SL Jan. 10
1st - Mia Huey
1st - Savannah Pringle
6th - Brianna Smiley
20th - Makenna Steel
23rd - Halley McGrew
24th - Madlein Bakker
29th - Ava Gilmour
34th - Hope Finnegan Lloyd
U14 Men SL Jan. 10
6th - Alex Grant
9th - Theron Andra
12th - Brixen Ehleringer
15th - Cody Lloyd
17th - Halsten Bruun
19th - Charlie Spengler
34th - Chase Martens
U14 Women GS Jan. 11
2nd - Mia Huey
3rd - Savannah Pringle
13th - Madlein Bakker
19th - Halley McGrew
22nd - Hope Finnegan Lloyd
23rd - Ava Gilmour
25th - Jennings Fraser
30th - Stevie Crist
U14 Men GS Jan. 11
3rd - Alex Grant
22nd - Breclan McCarthy
27th - Cody Lloyd
29th - Charlie Spengler
35th - Brixen Ehleringer
For complete U14 IMD race results, click on the following link and go to the U14 Series button: https://imdalpine.org/race-results/
Photo: Savannah Pringle won the women's overall event title