Colorado Discovery Ability Knowledge Base Series
The following materials are published and used by CDA as outlines for conducting continued education clinics.

Slalom and Giant Slalom
Guidelines for Basic Course Setting

December 2003

GIANT SLALOM OVERVIEW

SAFETY is a priority in setting for all disciplines but as the speed of the event increases, so must the ability of the coach to assess the risk involved with increasing race speed. Giant Slalom requires more prudent assessment of terrain changes, width of the terrain, spill zones, and skill level of the participants in order to design courses that allow the participants to look for speed, yet is set so that terrain becomes a positive factor in speed control. The result should be courses that flow with the contours of the terrain and promote linked arcs with speed.

General guidelines for setting Giant Slalom:

• Set to utilize the terrain
• Use a variety of radii (dictated by the terrain)
• Set so the turns are linked by arcs with speed
• Control speed by creating arcs and using the terrain (rounder on steep terrain)
• Set 3-4 gates (open) out of the start to promote balance, rhythm and speed
• Entrance to delay combinations should be obvious
• Adjust vertical distances in compressions and terrain changes
• Set according to discipline rules and regulations (National and F.I.S.)
• Ensure all gates are visible especially in undulating terrain
• Promote course inspection to train mental skills
• Use vertical distances of 15 - 25 meters

Test Skill level with the following variations:

• Set longer courses as rules and regulations permit
• Use variety in vertical distances (minimum/maximum % of vertical drop)
• Set to flat terrain to allow experimentation with tucking and tuck turns
• Set delays on variety of terrain to allow experimentation with line
• Set longer courses to promote specific training (race simulation)

NEXT: Basic Giant Slalom: Open/Closed Gate