Downhill or alpine ski racing is a competitive event that features some of the best winter athletes in the world. Top ski racers compete for money and medals at top events like the winter Olympics and other international events every winter. Ski racing tests the skier's athletic ability, strength, endurance, courage and agility in a number of events.
Downhill Skiing
The downhill race is considered the most glamorous event in downhill skiing. It features a direct downhill run that requires the skier to main an aerodynamically correct position throughout the race. In the downhill event, the skier gets one run down the mountain and is disqualified with a fall or if he skis off the course.
Slalom Race
A slalom race consists of a series of sharp turns by the skiers around gates that are set up by race organizers. The slalom gates are close together and force the skier to make tight turns. It takes excellent balance and agility. In most ski races, a skier will get two turns down the slalom course and the best combined time wins the event. If the skier misses a gate on either run, she is disqualified.
Giant Slalom
The giant slalom is similar to the slalom event except that it takes place over a longer course and the gates are a bit further apart. It requires more endurance than a slalom run because the skier has to hold his turn longer before cutting back against the grain for the next turn. In most races, the skier will take two runs down the giant slalom course and the best combined time wins the event. A missed gate causes the skier's disqualification from the event.
Super G
The super G is similar to the giant slalom event, but it is held on a longer and steeper course. This tests the skier's physical strength, endurance and ability to make turns. A skier reaches speeds close to the downhill, but it requires the ability to carve tight turns in icy conditions.
Combined
A combined ski race features one downhill run and one slalom runs. By forcing the skier to compete in both disciplines, the most well-rounded skier is rewarded. The slalom skier has the agility, but must demonstrate the strength, power and endurance to complete the downhill run in a fast time. The downhill skier usually has the speed and strength, but the tight turns of the slalom course will test his agility. The best combined time wins the event. A fall on the downhill course or a missed gate on the slalom course is cause for disqualification.
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