The Selection Committee also seeking new members.

Ski racing is built on the foundation of hard work. A daily effort on the snow. Behind every alpine ski race, within every program is the enormous contribution of many volunteers, officials and sport leaders, who work tirelessly to provide great programs, run ski races and ensure the administration and leadership of our sport gives our athletes every opportunity to succeed.

The purpose of the Canadian Rockies Ski Racing Hall of Fame is to recognize those individuals who have invested their time, their passion and their enthusiasm to build our sport, lift our clubs and give athletes the chance to aim for the highest levels.

Nominations for the Class of 2026 are now open. This is your chance to nominate an individual you feel is deserving of recognition by the Alpine Ski Racing Family in the Canadian Rockies.

The Hall of Fame selection panel welcomes nominees in up to five categories:

• Builder
• Volunteer
• Official
• Athlete – Alberta Ski Team and/or Canadian Ski Team alumnus
• President’s Award, for special merit

The Canadian Rockies Ski Racing Hall of Fame honors those who have worked so hard for our athletes. Historically, Hall of Fame inductees are recognized at the annual Highest Peak Gala in the autumn.

Former inductees can be found here: https://albertaalpine.ca/canadian-rockies-ski-hall-of-fame/

Nominations will be accepted until August 31, 2026 – To nominate a deserving individual, provide a brief summary of no more than one page outlining the accomplishments and duration of commitment as well as contact information for both nominee and nominator. Email information to: memberservices@albertaalpine.ca

The Nominating Committee is seeking interested individuals who would be keen to join the committee. The committee meets roughly 4-5 times a year to consider nominations and recommend to the Alberta Alpine Board. Please forward a brief outline of your background and your contacts.

• 30  –

For more information:

Canadian Rockies Ski Racing Hall of Fame
Email: memberservices@albertaalpine.ca

It was amazing to see a great turnout at the Stampede Warm Up Party last week! It is always a scramble for me to get this organized, but the last-minute push for tickets and raffle prizes came together. Thank you so much to everyone who came out to support the event and Alberta Alpine. It truly is an honour for me to put this on and give back to the sport that I love so much. I think it’s important for our ski community to have chances to connect off the hill and for alumni, current racers and everyone who has had ski racing leave a positive impact on their life try to find ways to make sure the next generation of racers has the chance to fall in love and learn from sport. We need to continue to be creative in how we approach fundraising and create opportunities for people to support at an approachable price point. We were lucky to have another year of amazing raffle and door prizes! A big thank you goes out to all those who contributed to the raffle (there was over $10,000 in prizes which is mind blowing!!). Some of our prizes come from my partners from my athlete days, but a good chunk come from our community, which is incredible to see. 

This event, and the opportunity to give back to Alberta Alpine is something that makes me proud and excited. It’s a lot of work to get a fundraiser off the ground; seeing it all come together and have so many people come out and spend their hard-earned money and valuable time to support the sport we love is incredible. Our early numbers look like we will have raised over $5,000 for Alberta Alpine which is outstanding! Again a huge thanks to everyone who supported the event, especially our sponsors Western Elite & Raymond James Mission Wealth! I look forward to seeing everyone back next year! 

Alberta Alpine is proud to announce the athletes selected to the 2026/2027 Alberta Ski Team.

Selection to the Alberta Ski Team represents one of the highest achievements within Alberta’s ski racing pathway. These athletes have demonstrated the commitment, work ethic, competitiveness, and dedication required to take the next step in their development as high-performance ski racers.

The Alberta Ski Team is Alberta Alpine’s high-performance development program, designed to prepare Alberta’s top athletes for success at the National and NorAm level, while developing the skills, habits, and values required to pursue future opportunities on the Canadian Alpine Ski Team. The program provides athletes with a full-time training environment, experienced coaching, sport science support, and competitive opportunities that challenge them to continually improve.

The 2026/27 Alberta Ski Team selection process recognizes that athlete development is a journey and that success requires more than individual race results. Athletes are evaluated through a combination of objective performance measures, including World Ranking By Age (WRBA), Head-to-Head results, World Junior Ski Championship selection, and NorAm performance benchmarks. These results are considered alongside coach evaluation and review by the Alberta Alpine High Performance Committee to identify athletes who demonstrate the performance potential, commitment, and qualities required to be successful within the program.

This year’s team represents an exciting combination of experienced returning athletes and emerging talent from across Alberta. Five athletes return for their second season with the Alberta Ski Team, bringing valuable experience gained through a successful 2025/26 season, while seven athletes join the program for the first time after demonstrating the ability and commitment to compete at the next level.

The 2025/26 season was highlighted by strong performances, challenging training environments, and valuable learning experiences both at home and internationally. Alberta Ski Team athletes continued to develop the technical, tactical, physical, and mental skills required for success at the highest levels of alpine ski racing. Their progress reflects not only their individual dedication but also the strength of Alberta’s club system and the commitment of the coaches, families, officials, and volunteers who support athlete development throughout the province.

2026/27 Alberta Ski Team

Women

Men

2026/27 Coaching Staff

• Peter Rybarik 
• Kyle Buchanan 
• Phil Pike 

The Alberta Ski Team coaching staff is committed to creating an environment where athletes are challenged to reach their potential while developing the technical, tactical, physical, and mental skills required for long-term success in alpine ski racing.

The upcoming season will provide athletes with opportunities to train and compete across North America and internationally, including preparation camps and competition on the FIS and NorAm circuits. Athletes will continue to focus on developing the habits of high-performance athletes, including preparation, accountability, teamwork, and a commitment to continuous improvement.

“Every year, selecting the Alberta Ski Team is an exciting opportunity to recognize athletes who have demonstrated the commitment and determination required to pursue excellence in our sport,” said Alberta Alpine Athletic Director Josh Benge. “This group represents the future of alpine ski racing in Alberta. We are excited to support their continued growth and provide them with the environment and opportunities needed to reach their goals.”

Alberta Alpine would like to recognize the important role played by our athletes’ home clubs in developing these athletes. The foundation created by club coaches, volunteers, officials, and families is essential to the success of the Alberta Ski Team and the continued strength of alpine ski racing in Alberta.

We are excited to follow this team throughout the 2026/27 season as they represent Alberta on the provincial, national, and international stage.

Congratulations to the athletes and coaches of the 2026/27 Alberta Ski Team. We wish you a successful season filled with growth, opportunity, and achievement.

Ski racing in Alberta would not be what it is today without contributions to the skiing community over the years from our coaches, volunteers, officials, and partners throughout the sport.

The Alpine Canada (ACA) Awards of Excellence are intended to celebrate and recognize individuals and organizations that exemplify and align with the values of performance and community. Each provincial sport organization challenged its members to nominate extraordinary candidates in seven categories this spring. Those recognized will also be included in the national pool for Alpine Canada’s National Awards selection which will be completed by an independent National Award Selection Committee. National awards are expected to be announced in Fall 2026.

We thank all of you who took the time to nominate these outstanding people and organizations within our community, and are proud to announce the Alberta winners of this season’s ACA Awards of Excellence:

Provincial Athlete of the Year 

Awarded to one Provincial Team level athlete across all disciplines and measured by overall athletic performance, quantified by podium finishes and overall standings as well as dedication both on and off the snow.  An athlete who strives to continually better performance both technically and physically, and who demonstrates a strong sense of mentorship and/or leadership. Ultimately, a Champion of the Sport.

‘He [won] the overall Men’s title and has a reputation for being an excellent teammate.’

Caleb Brooks, LLSC/AST | Voted 2026 Winner, Provincial Athlete of the Year

Coach of the Year (U14/U16/U18)

The award recognizes outstanding coaching performance by an ACA accredited male or female coach at the U14, U16 and U18 levels. This coach has demonstrated proven success with skill development and athletic progression, produces winning results, leads by example and is recognized as a role model to athletes and other coaches. Demand for the program has continued to grow year over year, and this coach illustrates the highest standards in the profession, the sport and their club program.

She ‘is a role model for athletes, coaches and parents which is a tall order. She was an alpine racer so her mindset adapts to that of the athlete in front of her. She understands their perspectives. As a coach who has moved up through the age categories, Erin understands that alpine skiing is a long game and athletes need to build their foundation to be successful. She is also the parent of four alpine skiers so she empathetically understands the concerns of her team’s parents…Her attitude is inclusive, patient and light-hearted, yet she knows what each athlete needs from her and she coaches them with honest feedback…and [team] results…speak for (themselves)  – the Calgary Alpine U16 program delivers.’

Erin Fynn, CARC | Voted 2026 Winner, Coach of the Year (U14-18)

Coach of the Year (U12 & under)

The award recognizes outstanding coaching performance by an ACA accredited male or female coach, U12 and under (including NGSL entry-level). This coach has demonstrated proven success with a progression of skills acquisition fr younger athletes and consistently illustrates a passion and love for the sport. They lead by example and are recognized as a role model within the ski community, mentoring other coaches and making those around them better.

‘Well-positioned as a leader and mentor to other coaches who are developing and honing their skills, (and she) meets athletes where they’re at and shows them what is possible.’

Charlie Wright, BVQ | Voted 2026 Winner, Coach of the Year (U12 and under)

Volunteer of the Year 

This award recognizes a volunteer in the sport of ski racing who has made an unwavering commitment to the sport throughout the year, demonstrating a strong passion for ski racing, ski programs and the sport in general, and who continually strives to learn more and do better in their work.

‘Highly deserving of the Volunteer of the Year Award for his exceptional contribution to ski racing. He has served every level of the sport…always bringing dedication, expertise, and care to the role. This past year, he served as Chief of Course for multiple races…[at several venues, even] where his own children were not competing, reflecting his selfless commitment to the sport as a whole. A longtime volunteer with his home club, Nakiska Alpine Ski Association, Dan has served on the board in many roles and, as president in recent years, has helped guide the club through difficult times. His passion for ski racing, commitment to learning, and willingness to support clubs across Alberta have made such a significant impact that ski racing in Alberta would not be functioning at its current high level without Dan.’

Dan Jalbert, NASA | Voted 2026 Winner, Volunteer of the Year

Official of the Year 

This award recognizes an official in the sport of ski racing who has made an unwavering commitment to the sport throughout the year, demonstrating a strong passion for ski racing, ski programs and the sport in general, and who continually strives to learn more and do better in their work.

‘Dave is always on the hill working incredibly hard, supporting the ROC, volunteers and the athletes in their journey.’

Dave Howard, LLSC | Voted 2026 Winner, Official of the Year

Ski Club of the Year 

The ski racing Club of the Year is awarded to the Alberta Alpine member club that has distinguished itself in providing exceptional ski racing programming, supporting the development of athletic success, and high membership engagement.

Calgary Alpine builds athletes through an incredible coaching program to succeed at U16, FIS and beyond. This can be easily seen in the club’s U16 results in 2026, which included winning half of the podiums at the U16 Western Nationals. …Through no fault of their own, Calgary Alpine is unable to [offer] a FIS team…[though] a lot of their athletes do continue to FIS at various clubs in the area. Their alumni have found success at every level, including Britt Richardson on the National Team, Rebecca Pelkey on the National Development team, and multiple alumni being invited to join the Alberta Ski Team next season. This is a club with incredible spirit, and…an engaged and committed community.

Calgary Alpine Racing Club (CARC) | Voted 2026 Winner, Ski Club of the Year

Ski Resort of the Year 

The Ski Resort of the Year is awarded to an Albertan ski area which has demonstrated an exceptional commitment to Canadian ski racing, through support of local, provincial or national ski racing programs, including training, competition and related activities.

Lake Louise is nominated for the Ski Resort of the Year for its profound dedication to the progression of Canadian ski racing. By consistently providing world-class training environments and hosting high-calibre competitions, the resort serves as a cornerstone for local, provincial, and national programs.

The resort officially opened the Juniper race venue last season, successfully hosting… a total of six Alberta Alpine events, beginning in December and concluding at the end of April. These included the Santa Slalom, FIS Slalom Extravaganza, U14 Speed Camp and Super-G, Doug Meyers Invitational, and the Speed Sisters Camp.

Each of these events required significant operational commitment, including multiple run closures over consecutive days. Lake Louise Ski Resort consistently and generously accommodated these requests, demonstrating a strong commitment to supporting ski racing at all levels…also provided consistent access to terrain for daily training and club-led programming ([and this] strong partnership has been instrumental in creating a high-performance environment while also supporting grassroots and development programming.

The resort was also highly engaged in event preparation, allocating grooming and cat time to support course builds, including the construction of starts, jumps, and a mini ski cross track…Through their partnership, flexibility, and investment of resources, Lake Louise Ski Resort played a critical role in ensuring a strong and successful race season for Alberta Alpine.

Lake Louise Ski Resort | Voted 2026 Winner, Ski Resort of the Year

Nancy Green Builder Award 

Awarded annually, this award is intended to recognize an individual’s lifetime contributions to Canadian Ski Racing. Nominations may be submitted by all stakeholders within the Canadian ski racing system.

He has exemplified a lifelong commitment to ski racing and skiing excellence in Canada. A former alpine racer himself, Level 4 coach (and) parent of 3 Sunshine athletes – all three of whom made the Alberta Alpine Ski Team (Molly, Liam and Ben Wallace) and one of whom, Liam Wallace, is currently on the Canadian National Ski Team.

Scott [has repeatedly] demonstrated his unwavering commitment to building ski racing excellence.  Over the course of his career in commercial banking…[he contributed] 10 + years of volunteer service to the Clubs including as President of Speedsters. Post retirement, he continued as a volunteer for the Clubs while being a ski instructor at Banff Sunshine Village.  In 2021 he became our U14 Head Coach, and in 2023 he took on the Executive Director role for the two Sunshine clubs, managing the coaching staff, budgets, races, equipment, relations with the mountain and more; he brought his business background together with his coaching expertise to drive professionalism, career development, efficiency, respect and the joy of ski racing to all aspects of his work.  For clarity, following a banking career, taking these positions is purely for the love of ski racing and his desire to see the ski racing community thrive.  He is a believer in the integration of alpine ski coaching and instruction, with a deep appreciation of the fundamentals of skiing and ski racing.  Taking a break from active service to our clubs to go watch Liam race on the World Cup circuit next year, (Scott) is still planning to be actively engaged with the Sunshine clubs for years to come.  I wholeheartedly recommend Scott Wallace for the Nancy Greene Builder Award for his lifetime contributions to Canadian Ski Racing.

Scott Wallace, Sunshine Ski Clubs | 2026 Nominee, Nancy Green Builder Award

Since 1988, the Dee Read Memorial Scholarship has been awarded annually to athletes competing on or at the Alberta Ski Team level, with the goal of competing for the Canadian Alpine Ski Team. This scholarship is intended to provide support to those athletes who demonstrate the determination and dedication to aim for the highest level, and who serve as good role models to younger athletes at the ski club level who are aiming to one day represent Canada.

On June 1^st, Ken Read announced the 2026 Read Family Scholarship winners to a crowd of ski community supporters that included his sons Jeff, Erik & Kevyn at Silvertip Resort, awarding Shae Mullen and Caleb Brooks each $1000 to further their ski racing careers.

“Shae made impressive progress on the Nor-Am Tour, this year,  becoming one of the leading North American athletes in speed to qualify for the Canadian Team for the 2026 FIS Junior World Ski Championships in Narvik, Norway,” said Read. “Caleb powered back from the injury that kept him out of competition in 2025, winning the 2026 GMC Alberta Cup and had impressive results on the Nor-Am. These great accomplishments should position him for more success as he continues his pathway on the NCAA Tour with the University of Alaska. We know both Shae and Caleb have further goals to represent Canada at the highest levels and we wish both of the best as they move forward in 2026-27!”

The Read Family Scholarships are named for Dorothy “Dee” Read, a pioneer athlete, coach and international official and a passionate supporter of athletes in Alberta. In her lifetime, she captured the 1948 Canadian Championship titles, became one of the first female FIS Technical Delegates worldwide and was a respected leader of Alberta Alpine and the Canadian Snowsports Association.

For more information about athlete scholarships and bursaries available through Alberta Alpine and to see previous winners listed, go to https://albertaalpine.ca/awards-scholarships/

With Mother Nature winning this year’s round, attendees of the annual Quest for Gold golf fundraiser presented by GMC at Silvertip Resort were in for a unique event with the Alberta ski community on June 1^st.

The 19th hole was the only one not cancelled due to snow and over 100 people were on hand to enjoy the program. Harrison Wolfe from Wolfe GMC Canmore introduced the 2026/7 Alberta Ski Team athletes, Ken Read announced the winners of this year’s Read Family Scholarships – Shae Mullen and Caleb Brooks – and we recognized our retiring provincial team athletes with alumni athlete belt buckles and best wishes for the future. (Full team announcement to come in the July edition of Inside Track!)

We are grateful for our sponsors, our participants, volunteers and supporters of this annual event, and we look forward to seeing everyone on the course next year.

Save the date for Quest for Gold, June 7, 2027!

Brady Leman presents Another Stampede Ski Social in support of the Alberta Alpine Ski Association.
June 25, 2026.
Wild Rose Brewery Taproom. 4580 Quesnay Wood Dr SW, Calgary Alberta
Tickets: https://zone4.ca/register.asp?id=41983

Please join Alberta Alpine to kick-off your Stampede Season with a quality evening at the Wild Rose Brewery Taproom. Enjoy a beverage and appetizers, and get into the Stampede spirit with the Alberta Ski Racing Community!

All proceeds will support the Alberta Alpine Ski Association in the 2026-2027 season.

While Mother Nature may have won this year’s round, we hope everyone had a memorable adventure yesterday at Silvertip and enjoyed a unique event with the Alberta ski community at our annual Quest for Gold golf fundraiser presented by GMC! We are very grateful for your support.

And while the extraordinary snowfall prevented us from playing golf, our PD Josh Benge was able to cut some fresh tracks down the 18th to a round of applause from the rest of the group at the clubhouse below. Thanks Perry Thompson for capturing that!

Our 19th Hole program got rescheduled to follow breakfast so we could still present the 2026/7 Alberta Ski Team athletes, announce winners of this year’s Read Family Scholarships, Shae O’Brien and Caleb Brooks, and recognize our retiring provincial team athletes with alumni athlete belt buckles and best wishes for the future.

We are grateful for our sponsors, our participants, volunteers and supporters of this annual event, and we look forward to seeing everyone on the course next year.

Save the date for Quest for Gold, June 7, 2027!

Congratulations to the 2026 Alberta Alpine Scholarship Winners

Franklin Donald Bean Award: Cole Merrett, PANO/Alberta Ski Team

Dave Murray Memorial Scholarship: Noemie Brooks, Banff Alpine Racers

Ski Canada Magazine Awards 2026:

• Addelyn Nowell, Kananaskis Alpine Ski Team
• Chase Miller, Westcastle Ski Club

Brent Marshall Memorial Scholarship: Loren Hannema, Banff Alpine Racers

Cary Mullen Awards:

• U12 (m) – Thomas Opelik, Bow Valley Quikies
• U12 (f)- tie: Noelle Westergard, Calgary Alpine Snoflyers and Brooke Willie, Edmonton Alpine SRS
• U14/16 (m) – Callum Cunningham, Snow Valley Racing
• U14/16 (f) Jayu Kim, Paskapoo Alpine Racing Team
• FIS – Deavyn Parchewsky, Banff Alpine Racers/ Plymouth State University Skiing

Rob Bosinger Ski Scholarship:

• Stella Smith, Banff Alpine Racers
• Blade Jensen, Calgary Alpine Racing Club

Speed Sisters 2026 brought together nearly 50 U14 – FIS female athletes from across Alberta and Saskatchewan for three inspiring days of learning, progression, and connection. Centered around the theme “Find Your Fearless,” this year’s camp encouraged athletes to step beyond their comfort zones, embrace new challenges, and feel confident expressing joy and excitement on snow.

Through strong GS and SL progressions, the camp created a space where athletes were introduced to new drills, worked with different coaches, and gained fresh perspectives. This helped build confidence not only in their skiing, but in themselves. Part of the week included freeskiing the backside and the park at Lake Louise Ski Resort, where many athletes explored new terrain and, for some, skied their most challenging run or tackled their biggest jump yet. This dynamic setting allowed athletes to develop both the physical and mental skills needed to take on these challenges.

A standout for many of the girls was the culminating synchro ski competition. Athletes teamed up, created routines, coordinated costumes, and performed for their peers, bringing creativity, teamwork, and energy to the hill.

A huge thank you to camp coaches Britt Ferguson, Avery Lebsack, Erin Fynn, Emily Clarke, Lauren Schroeder, Katrina van Soest, Hannah Schultz, and to our guest coach/mentors Amy Attalla, Katie Smith, Lauren Koper, Mikaela Wunsch, Makenna Lebsack, Abby Garnsey, and Emma Peterson for sharing your knowledge, experiences, and passion. Your leadership continues to inspire the next generation to love the sport and strive to improve.

Thank you to Lake Louise Ski Resort for providing an incredible training environment and to Genstar for their generous support of this camp.

Speed Sisters continues to stand out for providing a positive, inclusive, and fun atmosphere, where athletes feel empowered to take risks, try new things, grow together, and of course, to dance their way through it all.

Jennifer Clarridge
Athletic Director, Lake Louise Ski Clubs

As the ski season winds down, most athletes and recreational skiers alike are already looking ahead to spring objectives, summer training, or simply a well-earned rest. But one of the most overlooked opportunities to protect performance and extend equipment life happens right now: the end-of-season ski tune.

For alpine athletes, ski bases and edges take a significant beating over the course of a season. Repeated exposure to abrasive snow conditions, variable temperatures, and high-speed training environments gradually degrades both base structure and edge precision. Even for recreational skiers, micro-damage accumulates – often invisibly – impacting glide, control, and overall ski feel.

Why an End-of-Season Tune Matters

A proper end-of-season tune is not just maintenance; it’s preservation and performance preparation.

• Base Repair and Structure Reset
  Over time, ski bases become oxidized and dry, reducing their ability to absorb wax and glide efficiently. A professional stone grind restores the base structure, optimizing water displacement and glide characteristics for future conditions.
• Edge Restoration
  Edge sharpness and consistency are critical for control, especially on firm snow. Small burrs and inconsistencies can develop throughout the season, compromising edge hold. A precise tune restores uniformity and confidence.
• Wax Saturation for Storage
  Applying a high-quality storage wax protects the base from drying out over the off-season, ensuring skis are ready to perform immediately when next season begins.
• Equipment Longevity
  Regular tuning extends the usable life of skis, protecting what is often a significant investment for athletes and families.

Technology Matters: The GearUp Advantage

Our partner, GearUp Mountain Sports, brings industry-leading tuning technology to the Bow Valley, delivering a level of precision typically reserved for elite race environments.

Using advanced Montana tuning systems, widely trusted across World Cup circuits, GearUp offers:

• Consistent, race-level edge angles with micron-level accuracy
• Precision stone grinding tailored to snow conditions and skier profile
• Automated processes that eliminate variability and enhance repeatability
• High-performance wax application systems that maximize absorption and durability

This level of precision ensures that every ski – whether used by a developing athlete or a high-performance racer – receives a consistent, top-tier finish.

Athlete Perspective

Alberta Ski Team athlete and FIS GMC Cup champion Caleb Brooks emphasizes just how critical proper ski preparation is:

“At the highest level, you’re looking for every advantage you can get. The consistency you get from a high-quality tune, especially with the kind of equipment GearUp is running, makes a real difference in how your skis feel and perform on snow. It’s something you notice immediately.”

A Small Investment, A Meaningful Return

In high-performance sport, marginal gains matter. The difference between a clean carve and a lost edge, or between acceleration and drag, often comes down to equipment preparation. An end-of-season tune is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to protect those gains.  For our Alberta Ski Team athletes, it’s part of a broader philosophy: respect your equipment, and it will perform when it matters most.

As you wrap up your season, we encourage you to take advantage of the expertise and technology available through GearUp Mountain Sports. Alberta Alpine members are eligible for preferred pricing: simply ask for the member benefits discount when booking your service.

Gear Up Mountain Sports is located in Canmore at 1302 Bow Valley Trail. Visit https://gearupsport.com/

The Quest for Gold golf tournament is back, presented by the Buick GMC Dealers of Alberta. Tee off Monday, June 1st at Silvertip Resort in support of the 2026/27 Alberta Ski Team which will be announced at the 19th hole. A few high visibility sponsorship opportunities are still available – reach out to Greg if you want to see your company name set in front of Canmore’s stunning backdrop! 

Early-bird registration is now open – https://zone4.ca/register.asp?id=41660