Replying to US Open reg system letter

I posted this in the sticky thread earlier today but I would like to make sure we
keep this issue going as the registration comes to a close. Please read...

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Over the last 10 years, the US Freeskiing Open, started and owned by
Mountain Sports Media, has become the premiere event for park and pipe
skiers in the world. Part of the reason for this is that Mountain Sports
Media has done a good job fostering its growth and promoting the event.


Another reason for this event's "premiere" status is that it is truly an
"Open" event where young and undiscovered skiers are allowed to compete
and routinely showcase next-generation talent and excitement.


However, the 2008 Freeskiing Open will be less authentic.


Mountain Sports Media - the owners of Skiing, Ski, Warren Miller and
Skinet -- and event producers Mountain Sports International (MSI)'s new
lottery system for gaining entrance into the 2008 US Freeskiing Open is
unfair and inaccessible for many of the best young skiers in
the world for the following reasons:


*       It is no longer a true "Open" event because most people will
never have the chance to qualify or gain "open" access. Instead, people
will be chosen at random through a lottery. And most "up-and-comers"
will be excluded even from qualifying.


*       The lottery system is biased in that it allows as many entries
for each person as possible for $5 per each entry, unlimited.
those with more money, time and computer access stand a greater
chance of entry than those with less. This means that, unlike a true or
pure "Open," there is little chance that the best undiscovered skiers
will be able to compete.


*       The lottery submission fees are non-refundable. They are also not
credited toward your entry fee if you're selected. This is unfair to prospective
competitors. So, for aspiring young skiers who are spending all their savings
on additional lottery tickets, it’s loose-loose scenario for the entrant if they
do not win a spot.

I realize that there is no single, perfect solution. But there are alternatives that
are more fair and feasible. Some suggestions:


*       Identify or hold more qualifying events

*       Hold more qualifying heats

*       Make regional or resort spots available to coaches, programs and feeder events

*       On various websites, make alternative forms of access to entry
available. (ie. If you don't gain entrance in the lottery, you can go to
these events or you can submit entry resume with references, etc.)

Moving forward, I would be more than happy to help implement any of the solutions
to keep this event as successful as it has been in the past.


Best regards,

Paddy Kaye
Rossignol Team manager