The self-proclaimed “Beast Crew”—that is,
nearly 200 more volunteers—is
equally critical. “These are Killington ski
and snowboard instructors, resort
ambassadors, longtime passholders,
families with children in the local schools,
second-home owners, and retirees who
moved here,” Meg says. “Passion for
the Killington community reverberates
throughout the Beast Crew.”
What do the volunteers do? They assist
spectators, work in food outlets, serve as
monitors at restricted access points, and
operate the media center. They include
on-site medical and team services
personnel, award presentation crews, VIP
area crews, sponsor support staff, and team
and athlete registration personnel. “Some
of the less obvious tasks are the ironing of
national flags and picking up flowers for
the awards ceremonies,” says Meg. “Need
I go on?”
The dedication of the community isn’t lost
on the athletes at Killington. “I love that
the organizing committee and the
volunteers pour their heart, soul, blood,
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sweat, and tears into the event,” says
Mikaela. “You really can’t beat Northeast
racing fans.”
Cheering for Skiing
On race day (and remember there are two
race days, Saturday and Sunday), moments
before the first racers ski, organizers hold a
Club Parade. The parade honors young ski
racers. On Saturday, the 20-plus member
clubs of the Vermont Alpine Race
Association (VARA) walk into the base
area, which total nearly 1,000 young racers
and coaches. On Sunday, ski racing clubs
from neighboring northeastern states
participate with the same number of kids.
“Everyone cheers,” says 11-year-old Sofija.
“You feel like you are a part of the team,
like everyone there is on the same team.”
Sofija’s mom Micheline walked with Sofija
and the 30 Mount Mansfield Ski Club and
Academy children. “They call your club’s
name,” says Micheline. “And the kids walk
out holding their club’s banner. They are
so proud.” At the head of last year’s parade
walked former Olympian Tiger Shaw,