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The Lent weekend leave saw Wellington College’s ski teams take to the mountains, pushing limits and chasing podium finishes. The boys’ team battled the slopes of Wengen, Switzerland, at the British Boys Ski Racing Event, while the girls carved their way through fierce competition at the British Schoolgirls’ Ski Races in Flaine, France. Despite weather setbacks and travel challenges, both teams delivered spectacular performances, proving their strength on the snow.
Boys’ Ski Racing in Wengen
The boys’ adventure got off to a dramatic start when their luggage was left behind by the airline, forcing them to scramble for rental gear on arrival. Undeterred, they made the most of their first day with slalom training and free skiing. Monday’s stormy weather meant an impromptu day of free skiing instead of GS training, but spirits remained high heading into the evening’s parallel slalom. With rain pouring down, both Wellington teams powered through the opening round, only to face each other in the second. The A team advanced to the semi-finals and secured a hard-fought 3rd place finish.
Tuesday brought heavy overnight snowfall, forcing the cancellation of the slalom race due to unsafe course conditions. Instead, the team took to the deep powder under the stunning backdrop of the North Face of the Eiger, turning the setback into an unforgettable experience. When race conditions finally aligned on Wednesday, the team delivered on the big stage. Racing from the World Cup downhill start hut, Wellington skiers dominated the Giant Slalom. Sebastian (L6, Bn) clinched 1st place in the U18 category and was crowned overall champion. Other standout performances included Oscar (3rd Form, Hl) finishing 7th in the U14s, Francis (5th Form, S) securing 3rd in the U16s, and Morgan (4th Form, Bn) placing 12th. Consistency across the team saw Wellington edge out Harrow to take the overall team victory—an incredible achievement.
Girls’ Ski Racing in Flaine
The girls’ team had their own share of early drama when a storm forced a flight cancellation, rerouting them via Zurich. Undaunted by delays and downpours, they arrived ready to compete. With over 160 skiers from across the UK, the competition was intense, but the Welly team rose to the challenge in spectacular fashion.
Alexandra (A) dominated the unregistered U18 category, taking gold in both Slalom and Giant Slalom, while Emily (Ap) mirrored her success in the registered U18 category. Gaia (A) found herself deemed “too good” for the unregistered Slalom (an unusual rule), but she claimed her rightful podium place in the unregistered U16 Giant Slalom. Jasmine (O) added to the medal haul with silver in the unregistered U16 Slalom. The A team fought hard in the parallel slalom, finishing 2nd, and matched this impressive result in the overall team standings.
Beyond racing, the team embraced the full ski experience—learning to prep their skis, navigating tough snow conditions, and pushing their limits. Their final afternoon was spent tackling deep powder, with some skiers braving off-piste terrain for the first time. Throughout the trip, their determination and team spirit were recognised by instructors and event organisers alike.
With podium finishes, unforgettable moments on the mountain, and a wealth of experience gained, Wellington’s ski teams made their mark in Wengen and Flaine. The boys’ triumph as overall winners and the girls’ outstanding performances showcased the depth of talent and dedication within the College’s ski programme. Congratulations to all involved on a phenomenal showing!
