Les Menuires was a new venue for the British Schoolboys Races 2005 and we had great hopes that the races would run like clockwork as they had done in Veysonnaz for the first three years of the event. If we thought that last year’s increase in numbers in Wengen, was a sign of success, this year’s numbers surpassed all expectations as over 240 people came to the event and 140 race entries were received. Unfortunately a few had to pull out at the last minute, in particular Cottesmore School but we hope they will return next year.

For the first time this year, the race was sponsored by two organisations, World Challenge expeditions who offer a range of rewarding placements and exciting expeditions to destinations across the globe for students aged between

18 and 24. World Challenge sponsored the Schoolgirls races as well. We also had sponsorship from SnOasis Limited who are planning to build a ski resort in the UK.

The Stade at Les Menuires was used for the Albertville Olympics therefore we were sure that all the latest equipment would be available and we were not disappointed (a permanent finish hut with all ‘modcons’ even satellite timing connection). The piste was in perfect condition with a solid base of man made snow with just a little fresh snow on top. To cap it all, the first race day was wall to wall sunshine. The second day the weather was not as good but both days were a great success. Both races produced results that have been accepted for seeding with a low penalty calculation, which means that a number of racers improved their seed points. These races are specifically run to help our young racers and if the increasing number of participants is anything to go by, we must be doing something right!

Aiglon College 1, Stephen du Plessis, Alex DePyffer, Mark Thomas won the Sunday Times Cup again. The Berry Cup was

presented to Cowbridge Comprehensive, Hugh Wilson, Simon Kilday and James Rees for the best British based school team. The new sponsors SnOasis presented a cup for the best British based children’s school team which was awarded to Reed’s School 1, Raife Breton, Sam Gibbs, Chris Poulter. World Challenge also presented a salver to Reed’s as well as fleeces to the first teams in each category. The new Andrew Bush Cup was presented to the winner in Junior 1 category for Slalom, Zak Unger.

Our thanks go to the sponsors and we hope to remain in les Menuires as long was we can. Next season’s races will be run on 30-31 January 2006 and since we are limited to 140 competitors priority will be given to school teams on a first come first served basis.

The organisers would like to thank all the parents and teachers who helped with the event.