The British Ski and Snowsport Federation is about to fall into administration after being unable to meet its bills leaving some athletes short of funds to prepare for the Winter Olympics.
However, British skiers and snowboarders have been assured that they will be able to compete even if Snowsport GB goes into administration, but face uncertainty after the upcoming Games in Vancouver nonetheless.
Coaches and skiers have been forced to pay for hotel fees and lift passes at races because of the funding problems, which are having a significant impact on the preparations for the Olympics.
Snowsport GB has £600,000 of debt, and a £30,000 overdraft facility has been withdrawn by its bank RBS. The Federation requires £200,000 before the end of February in order to continue operating.
The Edinburgh-based not-for-profit organisation is responsible for the British teams in ski racing and snowboarding. It receives funding for the athletes from the Scottish Institute for Sport, UK Sport and private sponsors. The money is transferred into the skiers' training schedules.
It is the official governing body of snowboarding and other Winter sports. Membership is compulsory for athletes who are competing in the Olympics.
