Charlie Guest had to work hard for the British slalom title as she came from fourth place after the first run to win the British title and the race. Trailing Vicki Palla after the first run by half a second Guest used her experience and desire to win the race. Palla held on for second with Lois Jackson taking third (seventh place overall). the British top five was rounded out by Jess Anderson and Sophie Foster. Switzerland's Anina Zurbriggen took third overall.
Guest is a huge fan of the British Championships and likes to come and inspire the younger racers. She likes to help the racers as there is little to help them she feels "I wanted to come here and give the British Girls all the support they can get at the moment, there is not the pathway for the generation beneath me so the least I can do is show up and give then the support that I can," she explained after picking up the trophy for winning the British Slalom title.
Guest looked slightly too relaxed in the first run as rising talent, Vicki Palla, carved out a lead of around half a second. When you are the number one every one wants to be the one to beat you and Palla took her opportunity on the first run.
Come the second run and going last, Palla admitted to having a bout of nerves and this allowed Guest to show her class and form to take the race win and the National Title. "I am competitive and I do want to win," Guest explained. Palla was still happy with coming second as she has a huge amount of respect for Guest.
Britain's women's racing is looking promising. With Guest and soon a fit again Alex Tilly leading the way, add Reece Bell (recovering from a knee injury), Vicki Palla, Sarah Woodward, Jess Anderson as well as Lois Jackson and Charlotte Holmes, there is a lot to smile about on the National scene.
With the conditions tough with flat light and snow falling, getting to the finish was a challenge in itself.
Guest is spear heading the resurgence with her results on the World Cup and this is inspiring those following in her wake.
Full Women's Slalom Results
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