Ellicottville Skier Wins U18+ State Championship Giant Slalom

Western New York star Coleman Carls takes top prize in prestigious ski race.

Mar. 25, 2026 at 4:00pm

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Coleman Carls, a young skier from Ellicottville, New York, has been crowned the New York State Ski Racing Association (NYSSRA) U18+ State Champion in the Giant Slalom event. Carls' victory marks a significant achievement for the Western New York region, which has produced a standout performer in the sport of skiing this year.

Why it matters

Carls' win in the prestigious U18+ State Championship Giant Slalom race highlights the growing talent and competitiveness of young skiers in the Western New York area. This achievement could help raise the profile of the region's ski scene and inspire more local youth to take up the sport.

The details

Carls, a skilled and dedicated skier, outperformed his competitors in the challenging Giant Slalom event to claim the state championship title. The Giant Slalom is a technical alpine skiing discipline that requires athletes to navigate a course of gates set in a zig-zag pattern, testing their speed, agility, and precision.

  • The NYSSRA U18+ State Championship Giant Slalom race took place on March 25, 2026.

The players

Coleman Carls

A young skier from Ellicottville, New York, who was crowned the NYSSRA U18+ State Champion in the Giant Slalom event.

New York State Ski Racing Association (NYSSRA)

The governing body for ski racing in the state of New York, which organized the U18+ State Championship Giant Slalom race.

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What they’re saying

“I'm thrilled to have won the state championship and represent my community. This is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the entire Ellicottville ski team.”

— Coleman Carls

What’s next

Carls' victory qualifies him to compete in the regional and national ski racing championships later this year, where he will have the opportunity to showcase his skills on a larger stage.

The takeaway

Carls' triumph in the NYSSRA U18+ State Championship Giant Slalom race is a testament to the growing strength of the ski racing community in Western New York. This achievement could inspire more young athletes in the region to pursue their passion for the sport and strive for similar success.