Georgetown, CO – The 2012-13 North American Cup Series, a stepping stone tour for aspiring World Cup ski racers, begins this weekend at Loveland Ski Area in Colorado with men’s slalom races on Saturday and Sunday, and women’s slalom races on Monday and Tuesday.

Athletes winning discipline titles, as well as the runner-up, receive World Cup starts for the following season.  This year’s field is made up of 100 of the world’s best racers from 15 countries including the defending champion from last season, American Will Brandenburg.

“Loveland is honored to host some of the best young ski racers in the world to kick-off this year’s Nor-Am Cup,” said Rob Goodell, director of business operations at Loveland Ski Area.  “The course is in great shape for these elite racers and we invite everyone to Loveland Valley to watch as they begin their quest for a World Cup start.”

All competitors will be able to race for free at Loveland’s Nor-Am races thanks to the support of Dan Leever, The Leever Family, The Vail Snow Sports Foundation, and MacDermid Inc.

The races will be held on the Twist trail at Loveland Valley.  The first run starts at 9 a.m. each day with the second run starting at noon. Award ceremonies will take place each day approximately 30 minutes after the end of the second session at the base area of Loveland Valley.  Spectators are invited to watch the race and will be able to access the race course at Loveland Valley via a walkway from the base area.