South American FIS Snowboard and Ski Cross Development Camp debuts in Corralco with strong female participation

The first-ever FIS development camp for Snowboard and Ski Cross in South America took place in September at the scenic Corralco Ski Resort in Chile. This groundbreaking camp aimed to foster the growth of these exciting disciplines in South America, coinciding with Corralco’s inclusion of two South American Cup (SAC) cross events in its calendar. With the support of the Chilean Ski Federation, the camp was a success, attracting 14 participants from four different nations: Chile, Lithuania, Estonia, and Mexico.

One of the most significant highlights of the camp was the remarkable participation of female athletes, who made up the majority of the attendees. This marked a major step forward for gender diversity in the sport, showcasing a shift towards greater inclusivity. Expert coaching was provided by Oliver Prinz, former head coach of the German Ski Cross team, who not only trained the athletes but also shared his wealth of knowledge with the attending coaches.

The daily training sessions were rigorous yet rewarding, with morning sessions focused on basic slalom, technical slope drills, and course training. Afternoons were dedicated to refining starting techniques, with athletes practicing on a start section and hiking back up for repeated drills. Each day, the exercises varied, keeping the athletes challenged and engaged. Off the snow, participants took part in athletic training sessions designed to build agility, core strength, and overall conditioning, followed by video reviews and waxing workshops.

Lodging was provided at the cozy Casa Esquina, where participants enjoyed nutritious meals and a comfortable stay. The camaraderie between Snowboard and Ski Cross athletes was a highlight, as they pushed each other to improve and competed in friendly races. Ideal snow conditions and sunny skies throughout the week contributed to an atmosphere of learning, improvement, and fun.

By the end of the camp, the progress made by all athletes was evident, further demonstrating the effectiveness of combining Snowboard and Ski Cross disciplines for development. This camp has set the stage for future growth in these sports in South America, with hopes of even more participation and success in the years to come.