[FWM News] Membership Reminders and Rules Updates

[Far West Masters news]

Membership and License Reminders
--------------------------------

Just a reminder to everyone before the first races of the season... You need a USSA masters license 
to compete in Far West masters races. (If you're a first-time racer, you can "try before you buy" 
by getting a weekend temporary license that allows you to compete in the event - the fee will be 
credited towards your masters license) You can renew online at ussa.org or print and mail an 
application form. For more information and links, see the How to Join page on the web site.

You also need to join Far West Masters for the season. This gets you your permanently assigned 
stretch bib for the season; the nominal $20 membership fee goes towards the costs of organizing and 
putting on our calendar of race events. Far West Masters is an entirely volunteer organization, so 
your money comes back to you in the races and social events we put together.

http://farwestmasters.org/info/membership

2013 Competition Rules
----------------------

Need some relaxing reading? Check out the 2013 USSA competition guide! The 2013 Masters Comp Guide 
contains everything you need to know about masters racing in divisions around the country, as well 
as information on major regional and national events. For the ambitious reader, the Alpine Comp 
Guide contains the complete rules for Alpine ski racing in the US - guaranteed to awe and amaze you!

A few highlights from the 2012-2013 annual officials refresher clinic... With the exception of 
forearm and shin protectors, all body protection must be worn under the suit - this includes knee 
braces and back protectors. Helmet cams are NOT allowed. Single-pole SL and GS is approved for USSA 
competitions - be sure you know the rule for "correct passage"!

New this season are revised rules on hiking and overtaking: If a competitor comes to a complete 
stop (e.g., after a fall), they may NOT continue in DH and SG events. Hiking is allowed in SL and 
non-scored (masters) GS, but only so long as the competitor does not interfere with the following 
racer and has not been passed. A competitor who has been passed cannot continue and is classified 
as DNF.

ussa.org "Rules and Regulations" page with comp guides and rules:
  http://alpine.usskiteam.com/alpine/rules-and-regulations

2013 Masters Comp Guide:
  
http://alpine.usskiteam.com/sites/default/files/documents/athletics/compservices/2012-13/documents/comp_guide_masters.pdf

2013 Alpine Comp Guide:
  
http://alpine.usskiteam.com/sites/default/files/documents/athletics/compservices/2012-13/documents/2013_comp_guide_alpine.pdf