Inside Edge: Schweitzer looking better every day

Schweitzer is looking better each day. By Monday both front-side quads were running, further spreading out the crowds. As I sat in the lodge early Tuesday morning I heard the “Outback snowcat” that hauls supplies out there running for the first time. Harbinger of good news? We have a nice storm cycle inbound, promising up to 31 inches of snow — just in time.

Independence Junior Race Series — Whether you are experienced or have never raced before, this series is for you. Last year’s program was a huge success and we expect more than 70% of the kids to return.

The racers will be organized into teams. Each team will have two coaches. The first day (Friday, Jan. 7) will be a coached, "learn to race" clinic followed by timed runs through the NASTAR course.

The following three Friday evenings (Jan. 14, 21 and 28) will center on the race course, with some coaching on the side. Awards are based upon percent improvement. Each member of the winning team receives medals and everyone gets a neat T-shirt at the final party. The goal is to have fun and make friends.

A great deal at a very low price ($45). Registration is limited to 80 kids, so act now! Registration forms are available at the Alpine Shop, online at www.independenceracing.com, or contact Shep Snow at 208-290-6370 for additional information.

World Cup — A big week for the U.S. speed racers. The biggest news was Bryce Bennett notching his first World Cup win at Val Gardena on Saturday. He led five other Americans into the points, with Travois Ganong, 15th; Jared Goldberg, 19th; Steven Nyman, 23rd; and Ryan Cochran-Siegle; 27th. Cochran was ninth in Friday’s Super G and Ganong close behind in 10th. River Radamus took sixth in Giant Slalom at Alta Badia, Italy. He wrapped up his week with a tenth in Giant Slalom the following day, showing great consistency. The women were speeding along as well at Val-d'Isère, France. Breezy Johnson grabbed her third consecutive downhill silver, followed by Jackie Wiles in 26th. In the subsequent Super G, Mikaela Shiffrin was fifth, followed by Johnson in ninth.

Santa Claus is back (with Mrs. Claus) — That’s right. Watch for Santa on the slopes Dec. 23 and 24. Join the Santa balloon parade at 1 p.m. on Christmas Eve, Dec. 24.

NASTAR Racing Returns — The track opened this week, and will be open every day, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. through the holidays. After that it will be open Saturdays and Sundays.

Potpourri — Any comments, recommendations or contributions to this column may be sent to Shep Snow by email at [email protected]. Negative feedback should be sent to someone else.