This is without a doubt the biggest oversight by an event organizer in my long career. This is the US Open, formerly (even as recent as 07) the most prestigious event on the calendar. This is a huge disservice to both professional skiers and Masters Men's skiers alike.
First, US Open slalom competitors are being relegated to a watered down side show to the MM. Not by some marketing plan by Nautique, but by sheer laziness. They are looking only to kill two birds with one stone by combining two events that they are feeling obligated to host. With barely a presence in the finals and less prize money than MM, the US Open slalom event is comparibly non existent.
This is beyond insulting and it is aggravating that more skiers are not speaking up. The BD series as it originally existed was great for the sport; now it appears to be a confusing muddled mess. Too many ex pros, too much drama, and a real lack of identity.
The US Open is not the venue for an impromptu pro-am. Florida, the comp ski capital of the world has the real potential to draw avid fans. A US Open with 5 competitors flanked by 16 amateurs is a highly regrettable decision.
Many people have gone to a lot of work to organize these two separate events, and for that we are all greatful. Combining the two however is a no-win scenario for everyone.