The basics in 1 minute

The aim

Alpine racers ski through a prescribed gate course as quickly as possible. Downhill, slalom, giant slalom and super-G use different course and race formats.

Scoring

The fastest valid time wins. Slalom and giant slalom normally add 2 runs; downhill and super-G normally use 1. Equal official times share a placing.

Key rules

• Pass gates correctly with the ski tips and feet as required; missing a gate can mean disqualification.
• Under the supplied edition, do not continue racing after a missed gate or a complete stop.
• Wear compliant protective equipment and obey course officials; a waved yellow flag requires an immediate stop.