If you feel the need for speed, then alpine skiing is for you! There are five types of races in this sport: downhill, super giant slalom (called super G), giant slalom, slalom and combined. In all events, the skier with the fastest time wins.

The Rules of the Game
The downhill event is exciting to watch. It features the longest course and the highest speeds in alpine skiing. Each skier makes one run down a single course. The slalom and giant slalom require skiers to race down a zigzag course, turning at flags (also called gates) set in the snow. The slalom course is the shortest one requiring the quickest turns while the giant slalom course is longer. In both events, each skier gets two runs and the winner is the one with the fastest total time.

The super giant slalom has an even longer course than the giant slalom. It really tests a skier's downhill skills and the ability to turn quickly. Athletes each get one run down the course and must know the terrain well to avoid making wide turns that will cause delays. In the combined event, one downhill run is followed by two slalom runs. The fastest total time determines the winner.

By Sonya Mehta