Baxter claims national slalom title after his Olympic snub

NOEL Baxter proved his point to Olympic selectors after claiming the men's slalom title at the British Land National Ski Championships in Meribel.

POINT TO PROVE: Noel Baxter charges down the piste at Meribel to claim the British slalom title (Neil McQuoid/Racer Ready Magazine )

Baxter, who competed at the Turin Games four years ago, was overlooked for a place on the plane to Vancouver as youngster David Ryding - the reigning national champion - got the nod.

The decision left the Scot, brother of Alain, smarting but Ryding seemed to have proved his case when he led by nearly a full second after the first run.

However, the Scot took advantage when Ryding made an error on the second run to claim the title, three seconds ahead of nearest challenger Dougie Crawford.

"I definitely had a better rhythm and feel on the second run and skied much better," said Baxter.

"On the first run everything was going on, the conditions were pretty dreadful. There was even snow sticking to my goggles. But on the second I was prepared to take the risks and it paid off.

"To be honest winning the title was not high on my list of goals after the season we have all had. I really am ready to finish the season here and now. I am just empty of motivation now."

Meanwhile, Chemmy Alcott won the women's giant slalom title for the ninth time in 12 years after closest rival - and winner of the super-G - Louise Thomas straddled a gate.

"Super G and super combined have been my best at World Cup and even with my 11th in Are, giant slalom has been a bit hit or miss," said Alcott. 

"It is a bit of a confidence thing and partly technical. There is something which I have been doing for 27 years that needs addressed and so I will be going back to foundations in the summer."