JohnD3 Loc: Raleigh, NC

In my quest of clear, sharp focus in my photos I seem to constantly put myself at disadvantage; these photos and the conditions under which I shot them being a case in point.
Each winter we have the 50+ Senior Games in Summit County Colorado, it has become a serious fund raiser for the Senior Center and its associated programs. Two of my friends and I do volunteer photography of the Games, my major contribution being to photograph the Giant Slalom competition. This entails my skiing part way down the course, then standing on the tilt of the slope (in whatever conditions) in my ski boots for approximately 2 to 3 hours. For the 2019 Games we had temps in the teens, moderate wind, frequent snow showers ranging from light to heavy, and sunlight varying from non-existent to occasional bright. Under these condition I felt certain to achieve my desired tack sharpness (definite sarcasm).
I have selected 9 out of hundreds of photos to share below.
These were shot with my Nikon D610, with a 28-300, on S priority at 1/1000, ISO 100, Aperture and lens were variable. Images were edited in PSE 15.

Earnest Botello Loc: Hockley, Texas

Very good action series, John.

anotherview Loc: California

To aid sharpness, by stopping action, you could try setting the ISO to 200 or even 400. Doing so would allow you to set the shutter speed faster.

Or just set the ISO to auto. Then set the shutter speed to 1/2000th second or higher. The ISO and the aperture will vary, of course. But you should then see the sharpness you desire.

Cameras today can shoot at higher ISO settings with noise-free results. Take advantage of this capability.

JohnD3 Loc: Raleigh, NC

I appreciate your analysis and comments, totally agree; however, my major issue during this shoot was the snow between me and the subjects. Additionally during the editing process as I cropped the images and attempted to decrease the mid tones (used to bring out a bit of the details for the individuals as they were shot against the extreme white snow background) the white in the falling snow flakes was increased (especially against dark colored clothing).

anotherview Loc: California

Under the conditions you describe, a zoom lens with a longer reach would isolate the subject perhaps for a better exposure from less white snow in the frame affecting it.

You could also try a manual setting for exposure, for more control.

Just my 2 cents. Others more checked out may offer better advice.

JohnD3 Loc: Raleigh, NC

Your comments/critique are most appreciated. I welcome all thoughts that could result in improvement.

For some reason the posting seems to not be on the site today, sorry I will not be receiving the input from others.