A ski pack developed during these early years. Gordo, Mikey B, and I became more and more daring during these trips, and often decided to "bomb" the short runs from top to bottom. Glory to the man who got there first. Heck, back in those days glory was bestowed to anyone who made it down without injuring self or others.
In the early 80's a few other skiers joined the posse. Seaners and Bretzger were next in line. The races took on the formal name of Chinese Downhill, and the only rule of "no rules" was established. Runs were scouted and selected. Getaway plans were developed in case Ski Patrollers spotted our downhill assault. Life was good.
During the mid 80's our ski posse raced over courses at Sundown and Mohawk in Connecticut, and Broady in Massachusetts. Bat Kid joined the group with little style but decent speed. The race took on a life of its own.
In the late 80's and early 90's the home course for the Great American Ski Race was Sugarbush North, in Warren Vermont. This was the golden age of the race as far as participants and ingenuity. Scarenbaums, Yunkers, Chandras, Kellys, Olivers, Mahns, Fords and even GIRLS participated. The "Cross Trail" rule was established to create equality in the race. Each downhill would begin on one trail, traverse through woods, rocks, other skiers, many feet of snow to another trail, and go on from there. In almost every downhill from 1979 through the 90's the end result was the same. Whitey first, Gordo second, and trash talk prevalent throughout.
Sure, we suffered our share of mishaps and injury. Mikey B collided with an innocent byskier once. On other occasions ski racers shot off trails to the depths below.
The last five or six years of racing has been held at Mount Snow in West Dover, VT, and Killington/Pico mountains in Rutland. Gordo has fared much better during this era, actually winning a few. Whitey has cited poorer skis, increased weight of his opponent, and occasional thigh cramp for his recent demise. History be damned though, you are only as good as your last race.
As we head into the twilight of our 30's, there's been less actual racing, more actual talking, and even a hint of safety concern.
The Great American Ski Race is always looking for a few good men... interested?
Mikey, Halv, Seaners, Bat, Whitey and Bretzer (as the beaver)
