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Bright blue skies were shining for the downhill event on Tuesday taking place on the Stade slope in the centre of Meribel. With an early start to ensure the snow was still in good condition, Chemmy Alcott raced an impressive time to win the ladies senior title, followed closely by Pam Thorburn who was 2 seconds behind her, and Snow+Rock sponsored Sega Fairweather came in 3rd for the ladies.

“I had a really good run today, tough conditions, fast, icy and bumpy, it was pretty much up there with one of the toughest downhills I have done this year", said Alcott, 26 from Twickenham, of her victory. "I am happy to be at our National Championships again. Those conditions suit me, I like a challenge and having to have the confidence to throw yourself downhill, so I really enjoyed it. I’m delighted to take my first title of the Championships and I hope it is the first of many.”

The top 3 men's podium

Finlay Mickel, back from his achilles ankle injury, fought off close competition from Dougie Crawford to take his 4th downhill title and confirm he is very much back on form. Crawford was delighted to push Mickel so close as he continues to pull out some impressive performances. "It’s kind of a bittersweet place today, with Fin just stealing the race from me but the plan is to take him down in the Super G!" said Crawford, 22 from Glasgow.  "Conditions were much better today, on my run II had a bit of a moment coming off the jump and made a few mistakes on the first few turns but towards the bottom it went really well so I’m happy with that. Bring on tomorrow.”

Finlay Mickel back on form (c/o snowsportgb.com)

Soaking up the atmosphere at the British Land Championships

Ski Club sponsored Ed Drake and last year's champion, came in fourth after he hit a rut near the final gates, caught an edge, recovered but lost too much speed to come in the top 3. Dave Ryding came in fourth with a great run and again proving he can mix it with the big boys.

TJ Baldwin, who is also sponsored by the Ski Club was seriously impressive, winning the National Junior downhill title for a second successive year and holding his own in the senior race, coming in 5th just behind Ed Drake.

Meribel is buzzing with racers, parents and supporters here for the British Land Champs and with the usual mix of holiday makers and seasonnaires it means there is a great atmosphere in resort. Coupled with the fact the Altitude Festival, a huge comedy festival,  is also taking place in the resort, Meribel seems to be the place to be this week.

Read part two of Betony and Carrie's report from the British Land Champs.