Ski Racers and Canada’s Speed & Collision Safety Initiative

Ski racers thrive on speed—but part of being an athlete is knowing where and when to use it. On the race course, speed belongs. On public runs, especially in congested areas, it can put others at risk. Younger skiers look up to racers – –  and coaches and patrol are watching. Remind your athlete that skiing in control and respecting the Alpine Responsibility Code protects their season, their reputation, and everyone on the hill.

Ski areas across Canada are rolling out a new national initiative focused on speed and collision safety. The goal is to reduce injuries and strengthen the culture of safety on our slopes. For ski racers, this message is especially important—your skills make you stand out, but they also put you in the spotlight as role models.

Speed belongs on the race course

On the race course is where athletes are meant to push their limits. But to access those courses, racers travel on public runs shared with beginners, families, and young kids learning to ski. What feels slow to a racer can be overwhelming—and dangerous—for others. Being able to adjust your speed and skiing style in these areas is a mark of a true athlete.

Positive ambassadors for the sport

Younger kids often look up to racers as examples of what they aspire to be. How you conduct yourself on the mountain—whether showing patience in lift lines, skiing in control through merge zones, or respecting others on the trail—shapes how others see the sport. Coaches and ski patrol across the country are also paying close attention to speed. A pass pulled or, worse, a preventable injury could cut a season short.

How you conduct yourself on the slopes – whether showing patience in lift lines, skiing in control through merge zones, or respecting others on the trail – helps shape how others see the sport and the community around it.

Reinforcing the Alpine Responsibility Code

The Alpine Responsibility Code (ARC) applies to every skier, no matter how experienced. For racers, key reminders include:

• Always stay in control.
• People ahead of you have the right of way.
• Stop only where you are visible from above and not obstructing a trail.

Respecting these principles keeps everyone safe and demonstrates leadership beyond competition.

A shared national effort

This season, ski areas are putting speed and collision safety front and centre. By skiing with awareness and leading by example, racers can help ensure the slopes are safe and welcoming for all—while keeping their focus where speed truly belongs: on the race course.