Ski Challenge

The hotly-anticipated Ski Challenge 09 took over the slopes of Mayrhofen between 14 – 21 March, with dozens of competitors looking to make an impact and even take a prize. Among the crowds of eager skiers were famous faces, Sir Steve Redgrave and Ben Hunt-Davis as well as a guest appearance from Olympic alpine skier Noel Baxter.

Five-time Olympic gold medallist Redgrave has been involved in the Crystal Ski Challenge in each of the 5 years since it began. Sir Steve's abilities on the water translate well onto the snow with decent performances in previous Ski Challenge years. So, how did he fare this year when he swapped his famous oars for a set of skis and sticks?

In a strong field of skiers, including 2007 Ski Challenge champion Jago Brown, Redgrave came a respectable 5th in the speed race, just behind fellow Olympic rower and gold medallist Ben Hunt-Davis. Redgrave's relay team, the curiously-named Ahorny’s, also finished 5th in the team competition showing the same consistency that gave the great man five gold medals in consecutive Olympic Games.

Hunt-Davis, Sydney Olympic rowing champion, tested a rather novel way of getting ahead of the competition. Braving the cold, he stripped down to just boxer shorts in an attempt to shave seconds of his time as the watching crowds kept a close eye on his impressive… technique. Finishing 4th, perhaps Hunt-Davis will set the tone for Ski Challenge 10 and take first place in the naked slalom.

The biggest winner of the week was Kelly Gallagher of the Disability Snowsport UK development squad, who picked up both the Giant Slalom and Speed Race titles. A magnificent achievement and it’s pretty fortunate that she didn't win the dual slalom too, or we might not have had any ladies turn up next year. She clearly seems to be the one to beat in 2010 – so get practising ladies.

Jago Brown continued his impressive Ski Challenge career with another great showing, finishing 2nd, 2nd and 3rd in the individual events – a fantastic effort and unfortunate not to leave with a title. Brown is a regular on the slopes during Ski Challenge week and continues to impress year after year.

Of course, we must not forget the losers. Rob Kingston and Rejane Raymond managed to be the best of the worst on the slopes during the dual slalom so they could pick up the best losers award. Commiserations to Will Hodge and Jacqueline Lawson who managed to come second in this race, as they narrowly escaped the glorious infamy attached to the title of Ski Challenge Dual Slalom Loser.