
Monumental Progress on Tommy’s World Cup Trail Signals a New Era for Ski Racing
Waterville Valley Academy
Waterville Valley, NH— Waterville Valley Resort and Waterville Valley Academy and Black and Blue Trail Smashers (WVABBTS) are proud to announce a major milestone in the widening and enhancement of the historic Tommy’s World Cup Trail, a project that marks a defining moment in the future of ski racing in New Hampshire and across the East.
For decades, the Tommy’s World Cup Trail has been synonymous with excellence, having hosted elite competitions and generations of athletes who went on to compete at the national and international levels. This fall’s clearing work represents the next step in bringing that legacy to new heights. Once completed, the upgraded trail will not only meet modern FIS (International Ski Federation) standards but will also offer unparalleled training and race opportunities for athletes from youth programs to World Cup contenders.
“Widening Tommy’s World Cup is an important step for both safety and the quality of the terrain,” said Tom Sell, Executive Director of WVABBTS. “It represents the strong partnership between Waterville Valley Resort and WVABBTS, and our shared commitment to the future of the sport. This work is an investment in our mountain community and in the next generation of racers who will train and compete on world-class terrain right here at Waterville Valley.”
The project reflects a shared vision between Waterville Valley Resort and WVABBTS. The widened trail will enhance safety, spectator access, and course setup capabilities, positioning Waterville Valley as one of the premier race venues in the eastern United States.
The World Cup Trail was first cut in 1968 under the vision and leadership of Tom Corcoran, Olympian and founder of Waterville Valley Resort. The following year, in 1969, Waterville Valley made history by hosting the first men’s FIS Alpine World Cup race ever held in the United States. The event established the mountain as a cornerstone of American ski racing and set the standard for excellence that continues today. Over the decades, the World Cup Trail became both a proving ground for elite racers and a symbol of Waterville Valley’s enduring commitment to the sport. The recent clearing and revitalization work honor that legacy, now appropriately renamed Tommy’s World Cup, ensuring that the trail continues to inspire future generations of athletes for the next fifty years and beyond. The improvements will allow the mountain to attract more regional and national events and provide elite-level training opportunities for WVABBTS athletes as well as visiting athletes.
Community and Collaboration
This initiative has been made possible through the collaboration and generosity of volunteers, resort leadership, the Kelly Brush Foundation and the staff at WVABBTS, who share a common belief: that great mountains produce great athletes, and even greater communities.
“Waterville Valley’s heritage is steeped in competition and camaraderie,” said Tim Smith, General Manager at Waterville Valley Resort. “Clearing Tommy’s World Cup Trail is an investment in our shared future, one that ensures the mountain continues to inspire excellence for generations to come.”
With the clearing complete, the next phases will include snowmaking infrastructure, and finishing work to get ready for the season..
About WVABBTS
WVABBTS is a snow sports academy and club that provides world-class training, competition, and a rigorous college-preparatory education tailored to the needs of the dedicated winter athlete. Through exceptional coaching, committed educators, and cutting-edge training venues, we empower athletes to excel both on and off the slopes. With our values of growth, respect, integrity, and teamwork (GRIT), we are dedicated to developing well-rounded individuals by maximizing their potential in sports, academics and life in a family-focused community.
About Waterville Valley Resort
Waterville Valley Ski Resort is an independently owned and operated resort. We provide an authentic, non-corporatized skiing experience with a thriving local culture and palpable soul. Generations of families have flocked to Waterville Valley Resort to not only ski, but to relax, explore, reconnect, and make lifelong memories. With so many adventures and so much potential for exploration, it’s no mystery why Waterville Valley is considered New Hampshire’s Family Resort.