Wycombe Abbey Conquers the Slopes

Wycombe Abbey’s ski team were named overall champions of the 2017 Independent Schools Ski Championships this week after impressive performances in the slalom and giant slalom categories.

The snow on the slopes of Les Deux Alpes was perfect for the competition but at times the girls had to overcome challenging conditions including high winds, heavy snow fall and poor visibility, which they did not let hamper their performances.

As well as being named overall champions, outstanding individual performances in the slalom saw ten Wycombe Abbey girls named in the top 30 finishers, with a number securing podium positions.

Notable performances include Lydia (LV) who placed first in U14 Girls Slalom, third in U14 Girls Giant Slalom and third in Slalom Girls Open event. Maddie (LV) came first in Girls U16 Giant Slalom and second in Girls Giant Slalom Open Event.

With 20 UK independent schools taking part and 350 competitors, it is the biggest event of its kind. The competition provides a great opportunity for pupils with all levels of ski racing experience to enjoy a competitive opportunity. The Wycombe Abbey team comprised girls from all School years, who developed their racing technique in some excellent snow conditions.

Director of Sport, Louisa Taylor, says, “We are thrilled with the girls’ performances this week. To achieve such success on both an individual and team level against a number of prestigious co-ed, boys and girls independent schools is a credit to our pupils’ hard work, dedication, tenacity and talent. We would like to thank the organisers ‘Ticket to Ride’ for hosting such a fantastic event.”

Headmistress Rhiannon J Wilkinson said: “I am so proud of our girls whose performances after a long and busy term have contributed to our most successful ski championship for the School yet. I am sure the girls will enjoy celebrating their success over the Christmas break with their families and friends. Congratulations to all involved”.

We look forward to our team competing in the next ski racing competition taking place in January at the British Schools Girls Ski Racing competition in Flaine.

Photo: L Taylor