Frequently Asked Questions

General

Who is MRT?

What does membership mean?

Am I ready to join a ski racing program?

What Program should I be in?

Does MRT provide ski rentals, lifts tickets transportation?

What do I need to have for equipment?

Do I have to race?

Why can't I register "On-Line"?

Will I be in a group with my friends?

Why do I need to volunteer?

Where do I meet my coach?

What time do I need to be at Meadows?

Who will be my coach?

Training Days

Where and when do the kids meet?

What if they are late?

What if it is raining?

If the mountain shuts down due to bad weather where will I find my children?

Are kids expected to come on a regular basis?

If they miss a day can they make it up at another time?

When do they take lunch?

Should my child have/snacks in their pocket?

Can they carry a family radio with them? 

What happens if they get hurt?

What do coaches do if one child has to go to the bathroom?

Where do they do their gate training?

Where do they do their free skiing?

Can parent’s shadow/accompany training? 

Can I train with the kids?

How do coaches feel about me coaching my child? I used to be a ski instructor:  is it OK to coach my child?

Do the coaches want to talk with me after training days?

Is there any organized transportation to the hill? 

 

EQUIPMENT

Does my child need a helmet and face guard?

Where do we buy ski equipment? Are there any equipment deals for my child? Are hand-me-downs OK?

How long should skis be?

How many pairs of skis should a kid have?

How do you know when a kid needs new skis?

When and where should you get skis tuned and or waxed?

Can you tune skis yourself? Are there any classes? Where do you buy wax etc.?

How long should poles be?

Does my child need special poles, pole guards, GS poles, etc.?

Is there any optional equipment I should consider buying?

 

CLOTHING

Where do you buy the MRT jackets?

Where do you buy the racing suits?

Are there any extra items we should have on hand?

 

RACING

Does my child have to race?

Does my child need a USSA membership to race? How soon should I apply for it?

How do you enter a race?

Can we keep the bibs; they’d make a great souvenir? When do I return the bib?

Can my child compete in all races?

When should we be at the mountain on race day?

How does the race day format go, i.e. which age groups go first, when’s lunch, etc?

Do I take my kid through the course? Why is course inspection important? How can I make sure my child doesn’t miss inspection?

Can I slip the course with my child?

Can I be inside the racecourse on race days?

What if they fall (DNF) or miss a gate (DQ)?

What should my child do if he/she misses a gate?

What should my child do if a ski comes off during a race?

What if my child’s ski comes off at the end of the course and they travel through the finish gate standing up – does the run count?

How far down are medals given?

What is the Buddy Werner Championship? How do you qualify?

How do away races work? Do we send coaches?

Who is responsible for parents and children’s accommodations at away races?
What does J3, J4 etc. stand for?

 

VOLUNTEERING

Do I have to volunteer? Can’t I just donate some extra money?

Who coordinates the volunteers and how do I sign up?
Do I need special training?

 

OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST

Who do we call with questions, concerns or suggestions?

Are there any housing options available close to the hill?

GENERAL

Who is MRT?
Meadows Race Team (MRT) is the race team for Meadows Amateur Ski Racing Association (MASRA) which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization.  The club was formed  in 1983 and has for 19 years has to offered a variety of ski related programs at Mt. Hood Meadows to train ski racing competitors aged 6 to adult.   Last year, all told there where over 160 participants in MRT programs.
MRT is not owned or operated by Mt. Hood Meadows Ski Resort. It is an independent entity who enjoys the privilege of conducting its programs at the resort and is supported by the ski area with grooming services, storage facilities, trail closures for training and racing, an office and much, much more.

What does membership mean?

Am I ready to join a ski racing program?
MRT programs are designed to accommodate and assist skiers who have already achieved a minimum level of competency. Ability to ride chairlifts and the putting on and taking off of equipment is a must. Skiers who cannot successfully and fully independently manage a “blue” run at Mt. Hood Meadows will be better served by and referred to the Mt. Hood Meadows Ski School. 
MRT coaches will make an evaluation on each racer at the beginning of the season and if it proves to be really to much at that time, a full refund of all fees will be provided.

What Program should I be in?
All of MRT's program are designed to fit each racers goals and objectives while at the same time being sensitive to time and financial constraints of the whole family. Age and focus define most programs. Ski racing can be quite time consuming and costly however MRT strives to make its programs as accessible and flexible as possible. 

Does MRT provide ski rentals, lifts tickets transportation?
MRT offers professional coaching instruction for all members, but does not provide equipment rentals, lift tickets or transportation to and from Mt. Hood Meadows. Normally however MRT members will have an opportunity to purchase season's passes at Mt. Hood Meadows at "early bird" pricing up until the first part of December.
Also for certain competitions away from Mt. Hood, MRT does sometimes organize van rental for those attending the competition.

What do I need to have for equipment?
All racers should have their own pair of skis, poles and a helmet. Helmets are required and mandatory for all gate training and kids in the Mini or Mitey Mite programs, to be worn at all times while skiing. Also a good winter jacket and ski pants (preferably waterproof) with gloves or mites are a must.

Do I have to race?
No. However in most programs, participation in competitions is part of each racers ongoing development and is encouraged within the goals and objectives of each program. Depending on each racers situation, they may attend all available competitions for their age, only some, or none at all. Communication with your coach throughout the year is crucial however to ensuring your racing goals are met.

Why can't I register "On-Line"?
MRT no longer does "on-line" registration for programs as release waivers require signatures by parents or guardians.

Will I be in a group with my friends?
MRT's staff  of coaches organize racers into groups of 6-9 in size. Group makeup is determined by the common ability level of the group, however coaches do try to make accommodation for friends to be together whenever possible. 

Why do I need to volunteer?
Volunteering is the cornerstone of most clubs and MRT is no different. There are many reasons why we need volunteers to make our programs and services function. Without each families support the actual cost of providing the programs and services we all enjoy would be double and in some cases triple. MRT program fees only cover about 45% of the actual costs of the club. Also MRT could not possible host races where our own racers get to enjoy home court advantage. 
Every Meadows Race Team Family is required to provide one adult for three race days during the season, two of which must be junior level races.

Where do I meet my coach?
In front of the main day lodge at Meadows, just beyond the ticket kiosk is a stand of trees with a green banner which reads "Meadows Race Team Meeting Area".

What time do I need to be at Meadows?
Each program is slightly different (refer to programs) however in general younger racers (6-13) meet at 8:30 and are skiing with their coach by 8:45. Older racers (13+) tend to meet at 8:00. Lunch and end of day times also vary by program but are mostly between 2:00 and 2:15.

A few things to remember:

1) If you're late for drop off or pickup times it holds up the rest of your racing friend and your coach. Please try to be on time. 

2) Road conditions and traffic patterns can vary considerably on Mt. Hood. Allow plenty of time to arrive safely.

Who will be my coach?

All MRT coaches are certified and can work with any level of racer. At the beginning of each season, racers are assigned a coach which is best suited for the goals and objectives of each program. MRT coaching staff is normally around 18 and MRT strives for consistency in staff from year to year. When a racer is assigned a coach for the season MRT plans for that coach to be with that racer throughout the year.

TRAINING DAYS

Where and when do the kids meet?
On Saturday and Sunday kids start to gather under the Meadows Ski Area Map in front of the ski lodge at 8:15 a.m. and should be ready to depart and train at 8:30 a.m. sharp.

What if they are late?

Check at the base of Mt. Hood Express or Yellow (if open).  Kids will usually be making warm-up runs until about 8:50 a.m.  On most days you will be able to catch someone with a radio who will be able to contact the coach and arrange a meeting with the group.

What if it is raining?

We still train but recommend bringing some extra clothing, particularly gloves and a rain jacket.

If the mountain shuts down due to bad weather where will I find my children?

In the north lodge "racer area" room located on the main level. 

Are kids expected to come on a regular basis?

It is best if your child attends on a regular basis but we understand that family obligations do arise. 

If they miss a day can they make it up at another time?

No, we do not have a system in place to do “make ups”.

When do they take lunch?

Lunch is at 11:15. Meet your child at the Meadows Trail map sign.  They should be back promptly at 12:00 to rejoin the group for afternoon practice.

Should my child have/snacks in their pocket?

That is up to you. Keep in mind that unless the weather is bad, there is no break until lunch.  If your child tends to get hungry you may want to stick something in their pocket.

Can they carry a family radio with them?

Yes they can but we ask that they leave it off and in their pocket, otherwise they

tend to pay more attention to their radio than to their coach.  We recommend that

you keep your radio on and let your child be the one to contact you rather than

the other way around. 

What happens if they get hurt?

If your child is hurt, a coach will go with them to the medical facility and every effort will be make to contact you as soon as possible.

What do coaches do if one child has to go to the bathroom?

Older kids will be permitted to go in and use the facilities and meet back at the bottom of the lift. Please remind  your children to use the restroom before they meet the team. 

Where do they do their gate training?

Gate training is usually done below the Yellow Chair.  However, they will do a combination of free skiing and gate training during the day.   Mt. Hood Meadows may move gate training on a daily basis depending on how many other events are taking place at the resort.

Where do they do their free skiing?

That is determined entirely by ability and conditions. But we strive to ski the entire on the mountain.

Can parent’s shadow/accompany training?

Really it is better just to let the coaches do their job, however in some case the first day for the younger children may be allowed... please touch base with the head coach beforehand. Remember your child is not alone: he or she is surrounded with teammates.

Can I train with the kids?

We have a great Masters program that more often than not trains on the same

hill as the kids. If you feel the need for speed please consider joining the Masters program, we’d love to have you.

How do coaches feel about me coaching my child? I used to be a ski instructor:  is it OK to coach my child?

As with all sports, technique changes rapidly and the MRT coaching staff are trained to teach the most up-to-date methods. 

Do the coaches want to talk with me after training days?

Yes, the coaches are always available to speak with you about your child's progress at the end of each session. 

Is there any organized transportation to the hill? 

No, parents must provide transportation to the hill.  However, several families make  car-pooling arrangements, let us know if we can help...

EQUIPMENT

Does my child need a helmet and face guard?

We have a mandatory helmet rule, so yes your child does need a helmet.  Face guards are optional however, mouth guards are far better and suggested, especially if your child has braces.

Where do we buy ski equipment? Are there any equipment deals for my child? Are hand-me-downs OK?

Several ski shops in the area sell equipment for racers.   We will be holding equipment nights at local shops (Ski Chalet) with coaches and there will be ski reps present to help you select equipment at highly discounted prices.  Used equipment is a viable alternative if it is in good shape.

During the summer, Government. Camp is home to most major ski equipment manufacturers and free demos are available as well as bargain prices on ski equipment and clothing.

How long should skis be?

Generally speaking between the kids eyebrows to middle of their forehead is fine.

We do recommend for mitey-mites that you go with a general junior GS race ski is an appropriate both slalom and giant slalom.

How many pairs of skis should a kid have?

One good pair is fine.

How do you know when a kid needs new skis?

If you are not sure, ask your child’s coach for their opinion or the staff at a quality ski shop.

When and where should you get skis tuned and or waxed?

Can you tune skis yourself? Are there any classes? Where do you buy wax etc.?

Yes, you can tune your kid’s skis yourself. The coaches and Ski Chalet will give classes this fall.  Also, our Junior racers are always looking for a bit of extra cash and are more that happy to accommodate with a tune and wax.

If you shop via the Internet  www.reliableracing.com and www.race-werks.com and several other sites have a wealth of equipment options and excellent pieces on tuning skis.

How long should poles be?

It was recommended that your elbow be at 90° when your pole is in the snow.

Does my child need special poles, pole guards, GS poles, etc.?

They don’t need guards unless they are hitting the gates and they will let you

know when they start hitting the gates. They don’t need GS poles.

Same goes for shin guards and elbow protectors.

Is there any optional equipment I should consider buying?

Boot and glove dryers are handy and you may want to purchase your own tuning equipment.  Tuning equipment will be available for sale on some of the ski equipment nights.

CLOTHING

Where do you buy the MRT jackets?

Each year in March we place orders.  If you are new to the team you may find jackets for previous members or local stores or on the web.  Your child does not have to have an official jacket and many kids do not their first year. 

Where do you buy the racing suits?

You can order racing suits through Reliable Racing or at many local shops.  Usually several older members have used suits for sale.  Keep in mind, if you do decide to purchase a race suit your child will need to have pants with a full side zip as well.

Are there any extra items we should have on hand?

Absolutely you should have extra gloves, a neck gator to protect your child from

frostbite on very cold days and a set of dry clothing for wet days and accidents.   Some kids find the baklavas work well under their helmets during severe weather.

RACING

Does my child have to race?
No. But we are a ski race oriented organization. Race participation is encouraged.

Does my child need a USSA membership to race? How soon should I apply for it?
If your child is going to race in any events other than Mt. Hood Mitey Mite Council races (3-Way, May Day, etc.) you will have to have a USSA number.   Membership runs June to June.  Youth ski league (YSL) Applications can be obtained online at www.ussa.org.  If the only non-council race they will be doing is Meadow Challenge we will not require a USSA number for our team members.  If you are confused please check with your child's coach.  They will be glad to help.

How do you enter a race?

For races run by the Mt. Hood Mitey Mite Council you will sign waivers and  registration at the start of the season.  These forms can be found on line at www.meadowsraceteam.org or will be given out at the open house the first day of training.  You then must hand in the form(s) to the head coach.  Failure to turn the form in on time results in the MRT not paying your child’s entry fee and you then must try and register your child yourself either on-line at the sponsoring club websites or in person the day of the race. 

Please note that some competitions do not allow late entries.

For some of these away races, there is an entry fee per race plus a bib deposit. Providing your child doesn’t walk off with the bib you will get your bib deposit back. Your child will be given a bib on the first day they race that will be good for both race days.

Please pay attention to your email announcements.  Veteran parents and coaches will be able to help you through that first year which can be confusing.

Can we keep the bibs; they’d make a great souvenir? When do I return the bib?

No, bibs need to be returned.  If your child is only racing the first day of a two

day race series then you need to make sure your child’s bib is given to an official

in the finish area.  On the last day of a race series, a volunteer will be in the finish area collecting bibs as the kids cross the finish line.

Can my child compete in all races?

Yes and No.  If your child is participating in the Meadow Mite or Mitey Mite program, your child is eligible to compete in all Mt. Hood Mitey Mite Council races. Entry fees for which are included in your program fees..  If you are participating at the Mini Mite level, you are only eligible to enter our own Meadows Challenge the entry fee for which is extra as it is not a "Council" race, but a USSA competition.

When should we be at the mountain on race day?

We recommend you arrive at the mountain by 7:30 a.m. thereby having plenty of

time to collect your child’s bib, have them go to the bathroom and eat some

breakfast.  They need meet their coach at a designated location for a

course inspection usually by 8:15 a.m.  However, it may vary from race to race and depend upon the weather.

How does the race day format go, i.e. which age groups go first, when’s lunch, etc? Do I take my kid through the course? Why is course inspection important? How can I make sure my child doesn’t miss inspection?

Apart from the Super G races and most Mini-Mites races where the kids get only one run, each child will have two runs per race day, one in the morning and one in the afternoon.  Usually the younger children go first, girls then boys, followed by increasingly older children.  If the field is large at some events the J6 and younger may only get one run.  It is very important that your child arrives at the mountain in good time to do course inspection.  By inspecting the course he or she will be familiar with what they are skiing and the best line to take. Course inspection is a very important part of ski racing that they need to learn. Coaches only will conduct course inspection with the racers.

When your child has completed their first run, take them off for some food then return them to the mountain ready for afternoon inspection. After the last person skis their run there is typically an interval of about one hour before the second run begins.  Coaches will tell your child when to be ready for the second course inspection.  It is extremely important that your child be on time so as not to miss their start.

Can I slip the course with my child?

No.

Can I be inside the racecourse on race days?

Only if you are working on the course and if you must ski down part of the course to bring down racers clothes.

Note:  Be sure to never!! Never!! ski through the finish line, as that will stop the clock and the next racer will not receive an electronic time!!!

What if they fall (DNF) or miss a gate (DQ)?

At all Mount Hood Mitey Mite Council races all kids get a second run if that is part of the competition, however this is not the case for USSA racing.

What should my child do if he/she misses a gate?

If they are not too far down then climb up and go around. If they find

themselves a distance from the gate, then ski out of the course.

What should my child do if a ski comes off during a race?

Pick his or her ski up and get off the course, ASAP as another racer may have already started at the top of the course.

What if my child’s ski comes off at the end of the course and they travel through the finish gate standing up – does the run count?

Yes. If within two gates of the finish line.

How far down are medals given?

That depends on the host team.  Most races award top five trophies and medals or ribbons to top 10.

What is the Buddy Werner Championship? How do you qualify?

Buddy’s is an annual ski racing competition, comprised of the best 7 girl and 7 boy skiers (ages 9 to 12 only) from all clubs in the PNSA (Pacific Northwest Ski Association). 

How do away races work? Do we send coaches?

For Mitey Mites we only send Meadows coaches to two off Mt. Hood races:  Buddy Werner Championship weekend and the Mt. Bachelor May Day race.  For any away races you will be responsible for accommodations for you and your child.   Race registration for Buddy Werner will be coordinated by the coaches.  You will be responsible for entry to all other off hill events.

Who is responsible for parents and children’s accommodations at away races?

You are responsible for making your own bookings.  You my want to coordinate with other families who will be going.  It is much more fun to stay as a group.

What does J3, J4 etc. stand for?

J6 racers age 8 and under

J5 racers age 9-10

J4 racers age 11-12

J3 racers age 13

VOLUNTEERING

Do I have to volunteer? Can’t I just donate some extra money?
We would prefer to have your time rather than your money.  However there is a $300 buyout option should you choose not to give your time

Who coordinates the volunteers and how do I sign up?

Susan Manahan is the person designated to coordinate volunteers.  You will have the option to go on line to sign up or your can contact Susan directly.

Do I need special training?

MRT does provide education materials and classes on race officiating throughout the season. Plus we have many people who want to share their knowledge and experience with new families.

OTHER ITEMS OF INTEREST

First, call either Nigel Loring, Head Coach; Mike Fitzpatrick, Head Mitey Mite Coach, Jessica Swanson Mitey Mite Assistant Head Coach or Scott Weaver, President of the Meadows Race Team. 

Are there any housing options available close to the hill?

Many families either rent or own cabins in Government Camp, Parkdale, Hood River or in the Welches area.  

Other overnight accommodations include:

The Best Western Hood River Inn (Hood River) OUR SPONSOR!: 800-828-7873, www.hoodriverinn.com

Cascade Ski Club (Government Camp):  503-272-9204,

Mt. Hood Inn (Government Camp):  800-443-7777, www.mthoodinn.com

The Resort at the Mountain (Welches):  503-622-3101, www.theresort.com

Cooper Spur Resort (Cooper Spur):  541-352-6692., www.cooperspur.com