World Cup – Mikaela Shiffrin wrapped up an amazing 18-day stretch which included four wins, two second places and a fifth place.This week, she won the slalom at Zagreb (her 7th slalom win in a row) and placed second in slalom at Flachau, Austria. Shiffrin will be back in action on Jan. 15. Paula Moltzan posted her best World Cup result finishing 12th in Flachau.

Northwest Cup — About 180 U16s and U19s competed in Slalom and Giant Slalom at Crystal Mountain, WA this weekend. The track was a black diamond, the toughest this coach has worked on below the NORAM level.

The challenge was compounded by very icy conditions the first two days. In fact, only 45 of 94 men finished the slalom. Quincy Evans made a big step towards U16 Championship selection with GS results of 15th and 17th. She disqualified in Slalom.

Baden Brenner placed 37th in all three events (SL, GS, GS) – hope he bought a lottery ticket on the way home. Wes Simko was 44th in Slalom.

Junior Race Series, Week 1 — A little extra course work by the NASTAR staff and coaches yielded a good first week of competition. All the athletes completed at least two runs through the course.

The fastest boys were Cadin Billstin (21.33), Fletcher Barrett (23.00) and Austin Billstin (23.13). The top three girls were Angelina Knepper (23.30), Josie Buoy (23.81) and Sydnie Knepper (24.08). Racing resumes this Friday at 5:30 p.m.

Potpourri — SARS hosts Youth Ski League competition this weekend. Any comments, recommendations or contributions to this column may be sent to Shep Snow by e-mail at [email protected]. Negative feedback should be sent to someone else.