Young snowboarders with a passion for speed, freestyle and racing now have an exciting new pathway to develop their skills, with the launch of the Snowsport Scotland U16 Snowboard Cross Training Programme for the 2026/27 season.

Designed for riders with a solid foundation in carving, freeriding and freestyle, the programme aims to develop the next generation of snowboard cross athletes, preparing them to compete at Junior FIS and FIS level while building confidence across all aspects of the discipline.

Running throughout the year, the programme combines on-snow training in Scotland with summer coaching and an overseas training camp, giving young riders the opportunity to progress in a fun, supportive and performance-focused environment. Training will focus on the technical and tactical skills required for snowboard cross and banked slalom, including racing lines, starts, rollers, jumps, berms and riding in close competition.

During the Scottish winter season, regular weekend training sessions will be held on whichever Scottish mountain offers the best snow conditions. Riders will also work alongside coaches to build features for training and competitions, including banked slalom courses, providing valuable hands-on experience alongside their on-snow development.

Off the snow, the programme continues through spring and summer with sessions at artificial slopes, indoor snow centres, skateparks, pump tracks and other board sport venues. Freestyle, trampoline training, strength and conditioning, skateboarding and other board sports all play a key role in developing the balance, agility and board control that are essential for snowboard cross success.

A European training and race camp is also planned for spring 2027, giving athletes the chance to experience purpose-built snowboard cross courses before competing in an entry-level international event such as The Brits, the German SBX Cup, Austrian National Cup or a Swiss competition.

The programme begins with a pre-season meet-up and induction ahead of the winter season. Registration for the 2026/27 programme is now open, with riders able to register their interest in training, competitions and European camps. Participants must be members of Snowsport Scotland or an affiliated club.

Whether you're looking to take your first steps into snowboard cross or have ambitions of competing internationally, the U16 Snowboard Cross Training Programme offers an exciting opportunity to develop your skills, race with like-minded athletes and experience one of the fastest-growing disciplines in snowsport.

To find out more and register your interest, visit the Snowboard Cross section of the Snowsport Scotland website.