Lexi Hanus
Photo Credit: Tucker Marshall
The Cochran’s Holiday Slalom took place on January 2, 2023. As always, the race at the classic Vermont resort was a welcomed ski racing community celebration. Special guests Robby Kelley and Ryan Cochran-Siegle competed on their family’s hill, making the event even more unique.
If you are unfamiliar with Cochran’s, it is a small hill in Richmond, Vermont. The ski area is blessed with an impressive amount of snowmaking, a T-bar, and two main trails. However, it has a history of producing exceptional ski racers; it is legendary in the world of ski racing. Undoubtedly it is the home of the first family of US ski racing.
Furthermore, the name Cochran may sound familiar. Barbara Ann Cochran and Ryan Cochran-Siegle are both Olympic medalists; they are also mother and son.
Despite the lack of snow in the east and the low elevation of the venue, Cochran’s Ski Area pulled off successful races for both men and women. They had phenomenal course workers who knew that salt goes a long way in preparing warm snow.
Spirits were high and the lack of natural snow deterred no one. The athletes hiked with smiles part of the way to the start because the snow did not quite reach the top of the T-bar track.
Athletes as young as U16s raced on a hill that has produced multiple Olympians while enjoying the cheering crowds at the finish. There is a certain type of magic at Cochran’s. It has maintained the family atmosphere over many decades, keeping the traditions and love of ski racing alive and accessible. It is clear that the magic is still deeply there and is only being added to.
The athletes, coaches, families, and friends make races like this more than a regular day – they make it a memory.
Photo Gallery
Click to enlarge
One again, Cochran’s Ski Area reminded us what ski racing is all about: love of the sport.
Ski Racing Media would also like to highlight Tucker Marshall, who captured every photo featured in this story.
