Both of North America’s World Cup downhill tracks have been given the go-ahead from the International Ski Federation (FIS) by snow control inspectors satisfied with conditions at the resorts.

In Beaver Creek, Colo., FIS inspector Bob Dart granted his approval for the annual Audi Birds of Prey schedule Dec. 3-5 and in Lake Louise, Alberta, FIS Men’s Race Director Helmut Schmalzl, approved the Bombardier Lake Louise Winterstart World Cup races scheduled Nov. 27-28 and Dec. 3-4.

“Our partners at Vail Resorts have certainly made the most of the temperatures Mother Nature has provided,” explained Michael Imhof, Vice President of Sales and Operations for the Vail Valley Foundation. “Thanks to the favorable snow making conditions and the natural snow we have received, everything is not only on track for a great weekend of racing at the Audi FIS Birds of Prey, but also for a great start to the ski season for everyone.”

Beaver Creek Mountain has received over two feet of snow in the past week. “We’re in the best shape on Snow Control day in years,” said Chief of Course Greg Johnson.

In Canada Race Chairman John Cassels was equally happy excited. “The approval from FIS is a credit to the incredible effort of volunteers as well as the cooperation from our partners, including the Lake Louise Ski Area and all the other supporters of the event. There is a lot of work to be done between now and the first training run on Wednesday and the Winterstart volunteers are out there right now getting it done.”

For additional information on Birds of Prey, visit www.bcworldcup.com.  For more information on the Vail Valley Foundation, check out www.vvf.org. For information on the Winterstart races at Lake Louise visit: www.winterstartworldcup.com

Pictured, Greg Johnson gives the thumbs up at Beaver Creek with FIS Snow Control Inspector Bob Dart.