QMS Royals First Cowichan Valley BCSS Ski & Snowboard Team

Queen Margaret’s School reached a new athletic milestone this past weekend as its inaugural Ski & Snowboard Team made its first competitive appearance at Mt. Washington Alpine Resort.

Seven QMS athletes trained on the slopes Sunday before competing Monday against students from 12 other Island Zone schools, marking the school’s official entry into organized alpine and snowboard racing. Challenging conditions, including wet and demanding terrain, tested the athletes’ adaptability and resilience in their debut event.

“I’m stoked that our kids are getting to participate in the race series,” said Coach, Laura Robson. “It took quite a bit of organizing to make it happen, and our athletes exceeded our expectations. They were polite, helpful, and represented QMS in a very positive way. We also had some very respectable placings from our small team.”

Notable results included Billy M. (’27), who placed sixth in the advanced boys downhill, and Tiller B. (’28), who finished eighth in the same category. Charlotte P-L. (’28) placed 20th in the girls’ downhill event, while Dowan K. (’28) finished 20th in the boys’ intermediate division. In snowboarding, Jason M. (’27) placed 16th.

According to Graeme Smith, QMS Director of Academics and co-coach, the launch of the program reflects the school’s commitment to experiential learning and student development beyond the classroom. “Launching our Ski & Snowboard Team is an exciting step for QMS,” Smith said. “Thanks to strong leadership and enthusiastic student participation, the program has begun with a clear sense of purpose. We’re especially excited about its growth potential—both in participation and in creating new competitive pathways—while fostering confidence, resilience, and pride in our students.”

The new team adds to the growing presence of Island Zone winter sports and strengthens opportunities for Cowichan Valley students to compete at a regional level. The Royals have their next race (pending weather conditions) will be January 18-19, 2026 at Mt. Washington Alpine Resort.