SALOMON CXC JUNIOR CUP
Central Cross Country Skiing (CXC) serves as the Regional Governing Body (RGB) for cross country skiing in the Central Region. As part of this role, CXC oversees the qualification process for Junior Teams representing the Great Lakes and Midwest Divisions at the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Junior National Championships, as well as the U16 and U18/U20 Championship Trips.
The primary goal of the Salomon CXC Cup events is to foster a love for cross country skiing and enhance the skills of young athletes in the U16, U18, and U20 age categories. Whether they are newcomers to the sport, high school skiers, ambitious junior athletes aspiring to compete at elite national and international levels, or anywhere in between, these events aim to cater to all skill levels. Combining Olympic-style competition with educational elements and enjoyable experiences, the events cater to a wide range of participants, from novice racers to those with significant international experience.
For numerous Salomon CXC Cup athletes, the objective is to secure a spot on their Division's Junior National Team, CXC U18/U20 Championships Team, or CXC U16 Championships Team. This accomplishment can be pursued at CXC Cup events designated as Junior Qualifiers (JQs).
The selection of athletes for each Divisional Trip will be based on the results of the Salomon CXC Cup qualifier races held within each respective division. These races are designed to closely mirror the format, distance, and discipline of the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Junior National Championships, as well as the U16 and U18/U20 Championship Trips.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW
- The 2026 U.S. Ski & Snowboard Junior National Championships will take place March 9-13 in Cable, Wisconsin. This historic venue - Mt. Telemark Village, home of the American Birkebeiner - will host several exciting days of competition.
Junior National Team Qualification Rules:
- Midwest Division
- Great Lakes Division
- To comply with U.S. Ski and Snowboard sanctioning requirements, participation in the CXC Junior Cup races is reserved for non-youth skiers (U16+, 14 years old and older) who hold membership.
- To participate in U.S. Ski & Snowboard sanctioned events, athletes in age groups U16 and older must have an active membership with U.S. Ski & Snowboard and should not have a membership application that is still pending. The membership status with U.S. Ski & Snowboard will be automatically confirmed as part of the registration process. For information relevant to membership categories and types, please visit www.cxcskiing.org/membership.
- The Divisional Ranking Lists for the Midwest and Great Lakes regions are utilized to determine qualifications for the Junior National Team and the U16/U18/U20 CXC Championship Trips.
Remember to update your membership before the first competition to ensure a smooth process. If you are new to CXC Cup racing and have questions regarding your membership, please contact CXC member services for assistance.
GENERAL PARTICIPATION TIPS
- Make sure to plan your races and register in advance, as registration for CXC Cup races generally closes on the Tuesday preceding the race. By doing so, you can ensure timely registration and avoid any last-minute complications.
- Normally, you can find a tentative schedule on each race organizer's website. After registration closes, an official Registration List is published on the timing contractor's website. On Friday, following the Coaches meeting, a comprehensive Start List with specific start times will be made available.
- To enhance your racing experience and secure preferential seeding, it is recommended to purchase a Cross Country Competitor (U16+) Membership before the racing season commences. Participate in all the CXC Cup races within your division, if feasible. This approach will allow you to maximize your chances for preferential seeding and gain valuable racing experience.
- Good communication with your school team coach is vital. Establish a plan that supports both your school team and CXC Cup races.
- The Divisional Junior Teams (JNs, CXC U16, U18 & U20 Teams) will be announced following the conclusion of the final race in the CXC Cup series.
- A Cross Country Competitor (U16+) Membership is required for participation in the U.S. Ski & Snowboard Junior National Championships. It is advisable for serious competitors not to delay obtaining this membership until February. Lowering NRL points and being seeded based on the NRL are crucial factors for maximizing the opportunity to compete at the highest level.
- Stay vigilant and regularly check the website for any rapid changes in race and CXC Cup details throughout the season. The website will also serve as your primary source of information regarding summer camps and clinics, and other important updates.
Lastly, make sure to savor the experience of ski racing! The CXC Cup events provide an incredible chance to connect and ski alongside some of the most exceptional skiers in the Central Region and beyond. It's an inspiring, and truly enjoyable experience. So, embrace the excitement, stay motivated, and have a blast!