The Truckee-Donner Recreation & Park District is accepting sign-ups for its two winter ski programs — the Buddy Werner Development Program and the Tahoe Race League.

Buddy Werner was founded in 1960 and is sponsored by USSA. The youth racing league was named after the late Buddy Werner, who in the 1950s was the first American to win a World Cup Ski Race, after growing up racing in a local ski program in Steamboat Springs, Colo.

Thousands of youth skiers have since gone through the program. The Truckee Buddy Werner Ski program introduces the sport of ski racing at an affordable price to kids in the community.

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All skiers ages 5-14 are welcome to join the Buddy Werner Program, which is designed to teach beginning racers the skills needed to advance into competitive racing. Fun and ski development are stressed to everyone.

The season starts Sunday, Dec. 8, when photo passes and schedules will be given out from 5:30-6:30. Cost is $235 for the season.

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The price includes coaching and practice sessions each weekend through March 16 at Soda Springs Ski Hill. There are also special practices and races at surrounding Truckee-Tahoe resorts.

The Tahoe Ski league, meanwhile, is designed for skiers ages 7-17 and is an advanced racing program that teaches competitive racing skills.

The league starts with registration on Dec. 1. League races are at Alpine Meadows, Homewood and Sugar Bowl. Cost is $300 for the season.

Sign up at the Community Rec Center office at 8924 Donner Pass Road., next to the Pioneer Center roundabout. Call 530-582-7720 for more information.

Truckee ice rink open

Adult hockey, coed broomball, ice skating lessons, dancing and kids hockey skills are some of the programs available this winter at the Truckee-Donner Recreation and Park District’s ice rink at Truckee River Regional Park.

Also available at the rink are public skating, skate rentals, a snack bar, and group and private lessons for all age groups.

The outdoor setting is under tall pines, complete with overhead lights and music.

Season passes area available through March 3. Cost is $32 for a district child and $40 for a district adult.

Skaters may also rend a warming hut — hot chocolate included — for up to 12 children for $25 per two hours. Admission and skate rental not included.

Call 582-7720 for more information.