Races which are deemed of “national significance” are nominated as “seeded” races.
“Seeding” is a method where all racers (U14 age groups and upwards) are ranked, based on previous performance and race results against other registered competitors, with a points score allocated to them. This allows race organisers to check the racers eligibility against certain race entry criteria e.g. British Alpine Championships, where there may be a cut-off point, and to determine race start order. The lower a competitors seed points, the higher a performer they are i.e. a racer with 70 seed points in GS will be expected to perform at a higher level than one with 250 seed points.
Seed points are re-calculated are intervals during the season, allowing racers to measure their individual performance regularly.
To be included in the seeding system, the competitor must be registered with one of the national governing bodies: Snowsport Scotland, Snowsport England or Snowsport Wales.
Only one registration with the above bodies is required, however two separate seeding systems are used within British skiing:
- BASS (British Alpine Seeding System) – this system is used for all on-snow “seeded” races. Separate lists are maintained for male and female racers. See GBSki.com for further information.
- BARTS (British Artificial Slope) – this system is used for all “seeded” artificial and indoor snow slope races. Separate lists are maintained for male and female races, along with separate lists for indoor and outdoor races.