INTHE SNOW
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ISSUE 54 | FEB 2017
T h e wo r l d ’s l a rg e st s k i a re a
IN THIS
014
FEATURES
SKIING ITALY'S POWDER POCKET IN CHAMPULOC Italy’s very own Les 3 Vallées may not be quite as extensive as their
026
French equivalent, but they do have plenty of appeal in their own
@INTHESNOWMAG INTHESNOW INTHESNOW_MAGAZINE
ERIC SCHRAMM
It may have a run named “Trump” (no, its not named after him) and it may be one of the few resorts in the world banning boarders, but if you can get over that, Deer Valley has a lot going for it.
A YEAR TO THE GAMES! PYEONGCHANG 2018 It feels like the “Tropical Winter Olympics” in Sochi were only yesterday, but three years have gone by, which means Korea is just around the corner. It’s hard not to get excited with Team GB riding high.
ERIC SCHRAMM
INTHESNOW
DEER VALLEY HEADLINE PARK CITY’S OTHER SKI AREA
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right with convenience, quality and character in abundance.
REGULARS
GEAR
ROSS WOODHALL
041 029
008 FREERIDE WHERE'S YOUR FOCUS?
5-PAGE BOOT ROOM 029–33
This issue, Phil Smith, Director of Snoworks Ski Courses and expert on all things freeride, talks about the importance of focus when you’re heading off the groomed slopes and in to the deep powder.
With the big ISPO international trade fair taking place earlier this month, the world’s ski gear manufacturers
LATE SEASON DIARY 016
and retailers have been unveiling all their innovations for 2017/18 already.
patrick@inthesnow.com Well, what an exciting year 2017 has started out as! British ski racer Dave Ryding, currently placed number five in the World Cup slalom standings as I write this, became the first Brit in more than 35 years to podium in a World Cup race, taking silver at the Hahnenkamm competition in Kitzbühel.
ALTITUDE TUITION 034
last I no longer have to refer back more than three and a
It’s a bit like when Andy Murray first won at Wimbledon – at half decades when talking about the last British medal in a
TEAM
of the last Olympics, the Men’s Downhill. But he is also a pioneer of the skiing safety air bag for the World Cup
say the drought in France was the worst for a century), at and Pyrenees.
SUB EDITORS
© Copyright 2017
DOMINIC KILLINGER
NICK JONES MARION ADAMS
Printed in the UK.
dom@inthesnow.com
No part of this publication EDITOR
PATRICK THORNE patrick@inthesnow.com OPERATIONS DIRECTOR
DEBBIE GABRIEL
SALES MANAGER
GIANCARLO GAMBARDELLA giancarlo@inthesnow.com BRAND & DIGITAL MANAGER
Matthias Mayer is famous for winning gold in the big event
Then there’s been the snow. After a dry December (some
PUBLISHER
debbie@inthesnow.com
10 MINUTES WITH MATTHIAS MAYER
World Cup. Thank you, Dave!
last the snow arrived, transforming conditions in the Alps
EXPA/ JFK
038
BLOW THE BONUS 024
CONTRIBUTORS
SAM THORNE GABBY LE BRETON ANDY TAYLOR EQUIPMENT EDITORS
SALLY BARTLETT ANNA BARTLETT COLUMNISTS
JON WEST PHIL SMITH
may be copied, photocopied or reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted, in any way or means, either by recording or otherwise, without permission of the publishers in writing.
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ROSS WOODHALL
rocketbase.co.uk
snowfalls in California, with resorts that have been open more than 70 years reporting their snowiest month ever by far in January. Several had well over 6m of snow and broke their records only three weeks into 2017. Over in the Alps, things have settled down a bit with skiers enjoying sunny days on the snow (or at least they are doing as I write this at the start of February – it could be all
INTHESNOW LTD
change by the time you’re reading this). Of course, there’s
THE SNOW STUDIO
not been half as much as in California, but it’s perhaps
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EMMANUELLE CHÂTEL PICTURE EDITOR
Across the Atlantic we have been seeing incredible
+44 (0)1494 862 423 DOM@INTHESNOW.COM INTHESNOW.COM
easier to make the most of it without having to dig out roads and lifts to reach the slopes as they’re having to do there! Most areas also now have enough snow to see them through the remaining months of the ski season. It seems fitting to have all this excitement in 2017, as this is InTheSnow’s 10th anniversary year. It’s hard to believe a decade has flown by already, but there’s no arguing with our huge back catalogue and massive online presence now. At the start of the year, we even went through the 70,000 fans mark on our Facebook page, often the fastest way for us to get the latest snow and ski news to you. Let’s hope the rest of the ski season turns out just as well with more great news ahead. Have a good one.
Follow us @inthesnowmag
003 // FEB17
AMAZING START TO 2017
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
1 1 MEDALS FOR TEAM GB STARS t has been an incredible start to 2017
happy to get my first World Cup gold here in
It was to be the first of three medal-winning
at PyeongChang in South Korea just a year
for Britain’s elite ski and snowboard
Moscow. It was by far the coldest and some
performances for the duo, who also took silver
away, it looks to be perfect timing.
stars with January 2017 seeing what
of the toughest conditions I’ve ever had to
in the Super Combined and Slalom, joined on
is believed to be a record haul of 11
compete in, but an amazing place.”
the podium for the Super Combined by Menna
bronze, silver and gold medals in
Then, a little over a week later on 15 January,
Fitzpatrick, guided by army captain Jennifer
World Cup, World Championships, X
Dave Ryding scored his best-ever result and
Kehoe, who took bronze.
Games and World Para Alpine Skiing
equalled Britain’s best-ever World Cup result
More podiums were achieved by Brits around
Championships competitions.
by taking silver in the World Cup slalom race
the world with the British Telemark team’s
January highlights included Dave
at Kitzbühel.
Jasmin Taylor taking silver in the Telemark
Ryding becoming the first British alpine
Ryding led after the first leg and held his nerve
World Cup Sprint at La Thuile in Italy then
racer to stand on the podium in more
to stay ahead of most of the other competitors,
bronze at the Telemark World Cup in Krvavec,
Gold: Katie Ormerod,
than 35 years when he won slalom
but World Cup star Marcel Hirscher for Austria,
Slovenia, in the Parallel Sprint and Jamie
Snowboard Big Air World Cup, Moscow
silver at the Kitzbühel slalom and Big Air
who had been lying in eighth place a second
Nicholls taking silver in the Slopestyle World
Gold: Millie Knight / Brett Wild, Downhill,
golds for both women (Katie Ormerod
behind Ryding after the first run, stormed his
Cup in Seiser Alm, Italy.
World Para Alpine Skiing Championships, Tarvisio
on a board) and men (James “Woodsy” Woods
second descent and won by a third of a second.
Team GB’s fifth medal was a bronze medal for
Gold: James “Woodsy” Woods, Ski Big Air,
on skis) as well as the most successful Skiing
Ryding, who ended January lying in an
in-form Katie Ormerod (19, Brighouse) in the
X Games, Aspen
World Championships by a British athlete, with
incredible fifth in the World Cup standings
X Games Snowboard Slopestyle on the last
Silver: Dave Ryding, Slalom, Kitzbühel
three medals for Millie Knight.
and stood on his first World Cup podium
Saturday of the month.
Silver: Jamie Nicholls,
The medal haul began when Katie Ormerod
Kitzbühel, commented after the first run, “This
Ormerod said after winning her second medal
Slopestyle World Cup, Seiser Alm
became the first-ever British snowboarder
is incredible; being in the lead here is a dream
in one month, “I’m super happy to get my first
Silver: Jasmin Taylor, Sprint,
to win a Snowboard Big Air World Cup after
come true. I thought I’d had a solid run, but the
X Games medal! It’s always been on my bucket
Telemark World Cup, La Thuile
claiming gold in Moscow on 7 January.
fact I am leading came as a surprise.”
list to medal here, so I couldn’t be happier!
Silver: Millie Knight / Brett Wild,
Ormerod (19) from Brighouse, Yorkshire,
It’s the best result for British alpine skiing since
Especially to medal in the most high-profile
Super Combined, World Para Alpine Skiing
claimed the win with her two best runs (out
Konrad Bartelski also took silver in the World
event of the season in such a tough and
Championships, Tarvisio
of three) scoring 153.75. She finished ahead
Cup Downhill in Val Gardena in 1981.
progressive field of riders.”
Silver: Millie Knight / Brett Wild, Slalom,
of the World Cup leader Anna Gasser from
As January moved into its final week, Millie
Team GB’s Park and Pipe star James “Woodsy”
World Para Alpine Skiing Championships, Tarvisio
Austria who scored 153.50. The win followed
Knight (18) and her guide submariner Brett Wild
Woods (25, Sheffield) took the British medal haul
Bronze: Katie Ormerod,
two other World Cup Big Air podium finishes
took top spot in the downhill at the World Para
to five in seven days when he took gold in Ski Big
Snowboard Slopestyle, X Games, Aspen
this season: third in Alpensia, Korea, and
Alpine Skiing Championships in Tarvisio on
Air at the X Games in Aspen, the world’s biggest
Bronze: Jasmin Taylor,
second in Mönchengladbach, Germany.
Wednesday, our first ever World Para Alpine
freeskiing and snowboarding competition.
Telemark World Cup, Krvavec
Ormerod said after the victory, “I am really
Skiing Championships gold.
With the next Winter Olympics and Paralympics
Bronze: Menna Fitzpatrick / Jennifer Kehoe, Super
TEAM GB JAN 2017 MEDAL HAUL
Combined, World Para Alpine Skiing Championships
04 // FEB17
ANDY PARANT
GROWTH IN SKIERS WEARING HELMETS WELCOMED
LES ARCS UNVEIL NEW SKI–BIKE RELAY EVENT
ISCHGL MAKES MORE OF ITS SMUGGLERS’ TRAILS
A brain injury charity has welcomed statistics that show a boom in the
Les Arcs are to stage what they say is the first ever ski-then-mountain-
The Austrian resort of Ischgl sits on the border across from the Swiss
number of skiers wearing helmets while out on the slopes.
bike downhill relay in France this April.
resort of Samnaun, and the two resorts share their ski slopes but have
The figures, which were provided by ski-wear specialist Ellis Brigham,
The event, which is along similar lines to events such as the Ski to Sea
a long history with smugglers. In the old days, the Austrians packed
show sales of helmets in the UK have grown by 191% in the past 10
races at Mt Baker in the USA and others staged annually in countries like
their rucksacks with butter, cheese and furs to take over to Switzerland,
years. The steep rise has been welcomed by Headway – the brain
New Zealand, will see racers tackle 1,600m of vertical above and below
returning with coffee, rice, flour, tobacco, sugar and spices to sell in
injury association – as a positive step forward in the way winter-sports
the snowline.
Austria. Even today, border police check heavily laden skiers returning
enthusiasts treat safety while enjoying their favourite pastime.
Taking place on 22 April, 150 teams (male, female and mixed) are
to Austria from Samnaun to make sure they’re not bringing in more
“The evidence is clear; helmets decrease the risk and severity of head
expected to compete in this exclusive race. Unlike in other races, each
than their personal allowance from Switzerland to the EU.
injuries in skiing and snowboarding, and we’re delighted to see more
team member will ski a different leg.
This season, though, Ischgl is making the cross-border relationship a
people take note of this simple common-sense approach to safety,” said
The race will begin after the slopes close at around 5pm and take place
bit more fun and 100% legal in a new set of marked “smugglers’ routes”
Peter McCabe, Chief Executive of Headway, who added: “Beneath the soft
on a marked course, supervised by the ski patrols. It will start at Col
that skiers and boarders can follow using the resort’s iSki Ischgl App
snow is a compact layer of ice which can be as hard as concrete. Even a
des Frettes, 2,413m up and accessed by the Arpette and Bois de l’Ours
connected to GPS on their phones.
minor head injury can have a major impact, so it’s important people use
chairlifts. From here, the first half of the descent over snow begins,
The aim for skiers and boarders is to amass kilometres rather than
their heads and wear their helmets.”
including a race through the snowpark.
merchandise and to track and record their progress by GPS via the
Headway’s safety message is being backed by winter-sports instructor
Racers will switch to bikes in Arc 1600 from where the course follows the
app. There are three well-signposted routes, gold, silver and bronze, of
Charlie Elmore, who had to relearn how to walk and talk after sustaining a
famous mountain bike slope « La 8 » with the race continuing down to
varying difficulty to cater for all standards.
traumatic brain injury while snowboarding wearing a helmet in Austria in 2011.
the Event Village in Bourg St Maurice.
Those who successfully complete their chosen circuit can enter prize
“I set about doing a jump I’d done many times,” said Charlie. “One moment
Participating costs €60 (around £52) per team (€30pp (around £26pp)),
draws every day, weekly and for each season. Prizes will include head
I was snowboarding in Austria and the next, as I knew it, I was coming
and entrants can sign up at engage-sports.com/ski2bike2017/
bands, rucksacks, half-board hotel stays, lift passes and passes for
round in a hospital in England six weeks later. Had I not been wearing a
“Is there a better way to celebrate the transition from the winter to the
mountain concerts. ischgl.com/apps
helmet that day, there would be no story to tell.” headway.org.uk
spring than a skiing to bike relay?” the organisers ask.
FIT. M A D E TO F I T.
BRITISH.
M A D E I N B R I TA I N . M A D E F O R WO M E N .
2 0 % D I S CO U N T CO D E : F I T B R I T
WOMEN. S N OO K S W E A R . CO. U K
FREE EASTER SLEDGING IN LES ARCS This winter, Les Arcs and tour operator Peak Retreats have joined together to offer even more value to families. Book any accommodation in Peisey Vallandry with Peak Retreats and buy two adult Les Arcs/Peisey Vallandry or Paradiski lift passes, and for an Easter treat, Peak Retreats is offering free passes to the very special Mille8 or Rodeo Park sledge runs in Les Arcs. PeakRetreats.co.uk
NEW SPA AT LES MENUIRES A new Ô Pure® Spa has opened in the new MMV STEPHEN VAN DE KEMP
Résidence “Le Coeur des Loges” in Les Menuires. It features an indoor heated pool, a Jacuzzi, a sauna, a steam room and wet rooms, relaxation baths, rain showers, beauty treatments and wellbeing massages, examples of which include the “Grand Froid” signature experience that heats and rehydrates you, or the Family Zen treatment, a
PANORAMA ADDS EXPERT TERRAIN
30-minute treatment just for the family with access to the Aquarelaxing area in the residence.
MORE BRITS SKI JAPAN Japan’s national tourist organisation says that the number of Brits heading to Japan grew by almost half last winter. The exact figure recorded was a 46.4% increase in the number of overnight ski resort visitors, in comparison with 2014/15. Japan Ski Experience, a ski holiday operator specialising in Japan, believes that the season ahead is set to see further growth, as Japan Meteorological Agency forecast a 70% chance of a La Niña winter, which typically brings very heavy snowfalls to Japan.
SKI SCHOOL OFFERS WINGJUMPING
C
to its in terrain tally, bringing the
experiences for guests.
infamous Taynton Bowl territory in-
“It’s an exciting time at Panorama,”
bounds. The ski area now includes
said Steve Paccagnan, Panorama’s
1,152 hectares of patrolled terrain
Director and CEO. “Serious
and boasts 125 trails, the Taynton
investment has gone into improving
Bowl, the Extreme Dream Zone, and
on-mountain and entertainment
The Thing, John Carpenter’s famous scary
two terrain parks.
experiences for guests.”
movie set in an Antarctic research station, is
An investment of $120,000 (around
Panorama is located in the Purcell
to be given a special screening at an indoor
£96,000) this season improves
Range, west of the Rocky Mountain
snow centre this month. Snow Factor Braehead,
Panorama’s off-piste offering with
Trench, on the Powder Highway
Scotland’s only indoor real-snow facility, is set
anada’s Panorama ski area in British
new glading on both the front and
and a three-and-a-half-hour drive
to use its sub-zero real-snow setting to put the
Columbia has added an additional
backside of the mountain, which
from Calgary International Airport.
chill in dozens of horror-film fans when it hosts
6.6 hectares of expert double black
further opens up Panorama’s
It boasts one of the five biggest lift-
the one-off screening of The Thing as part of the
diamond backcountry-style terrain
massive hectarage to provide new
served verticals in North America.
13th annual Glasgow Film Festival (#GFF17).
Ski Cool in Val Thorens have a fun new way for
The showing on 23 February will allow
kids aged five to 12 to learn to ski. Designed
moviegoers to enjoy the pop-up Snow Factor
like a parachute, a Wingjump suit is worn like a
F1 STAR LAUNCHES NEW ICE DRIVING COURSES
cape and attached to the child’s ski poles. The Wingjump cape inflates with air as the child picks
who are carried along in the air as well as by their skis,” said a Ski Cool spokesperson. ski-cool.com
“cinema” venue, but everyone attending is advised to wrap up warmly for the special 35th anniversary screening of the sci-fi horror, which stars Kurt Russell.
OLIVER ALLAMAND
up speed, providing a light, safe gliding sensation. “They are an amazing teaching ‘toy’ for children,
THE THING COMES TO INDOOR SNOW
NEW SIX-SEATER AT KLEINWALSERTAL The Kleinwalsertal ski area in Austria’s Vorarlberg
SVR on a special ice circuit,
“We are used to offering our customers chilly
with a professional instructor,
fun. However, this is the first time we will play
to drift and slide in exhilarating
our part in creating a distinctly chilly atmosphere
driving conditions.
as guests take their seats for a screening of The
The new opportunity was launched
Thing” said Penny Dunn, Business Development
by Formula 1 star Romain Grosjean.
Manager at Snow Factor, who added: “It’s
“The driver put on quite a show as
fantastic to offer our permanently snow-covered
he got behind the wheel to show
slopes as a setting for what is a renowned
onlookers how it’s done!” said a
horror film. It is definitely one of the more
province is investing €30 million (around £26
A new partnership between Jaguar
adrenaline sports offered at La
resort spokesperson.
unusual events we will have hosted!”
million) in updates over the next two years.
Land Rover and La Plagne ski resort
Plagne, which also include zip wires
The experience is available free of
Running from 15 to 26 February, the Glasgow
A sizeable chunk of this spend has gone on
in the French Alps has resulted
and descending the 1992 Olympic
charge to those who want to try it,
Film Festival will see 310 events and separate
the new Olympiabahn six-seat chairlift, which
in the launch of a thrilling driving
Bobsleigh run.
from 10am to 4pm daily from Sunday
screenings of films from 38 countries shown
experience for visitors.
“Fun Zone Jaguar” provides the
to Friday from 5 February to 5 March.
across the city. Tickets for the showing of The
terminal and the Ifenhütte lodge this winter. In
The activity is the latest in an ever-
chance to get behind the wheel of
You have to be at least 28 years old
Thing at 10am on Monday 23 February are on
addition, snowmaking is being increased to
growing list of non-skiing/boarding
a four-wheel drive Jaguar F-TYPE
to take part. la-plagne.com
sale via: glasgowfilm.org/
replaces a drag lift between the mountain
cover a total of 13km of runs.
006 // FEB17 // INTHESNOW.COM
@INTHESNOWMAG
INGHAMS
Heavenly Skiing At Down To Earth Prices
INGHAMS LAUNCH SKI PREVIEW FOR 2017/18
HANNIBAL RETURNING TO SÖLDEN
Specialist ski holiday company Inghams has launched its Winter 2017/18
Sölden in the Austrian Tirol will celebrate the end of the ski season
Ski Preview Programme with what the company says are its best-
with a unique on-slope show: Hannibal on Friday 21 April 2017.
ever preview deals. The new brochure features 91 resorts across nine
Staged once every two years, this breathtaking live performance is
countries, with regional departures from 25 local UK airports across
held at 3,000m above sea level in the upper Ötzal on the resort’s
England, Scotland and Northern Ireland. The company says many of its
Rettenbach Glacier. Billed as the world’s largest contemporary
initiatives are a direct response to the EU referendum result in a bid to
performance, Hannibal tells the story of the famed commander of the
offer security in an uncertain year and maximise value in light of the falling
ancient world’s crossing of the Alps in 216BC with 60,000 warriors,
value of the pound. “We are delighted to have this programme ready for
thousands of horses and 37 elephants. The spectacular will include
early bookers. Many of our guests, especially those travelling in groups,
helicopters, historical planes, skidoos, ski instructors, snow grooming
like to get their ski trip secured well in advance, and with the impact of
tractors (playing the elephants), dancers, paragliders and the fabulous
Brexit unknown at this stage, we have ensured that our winter 2017/18
base jumpers from the Red Bull Skydive Team. Some 500 people
holidays are on sale now to make saving money as easy and convenient
participate in this extravagant performance – including parachutists
as possible,” said Paul Carter, Chief Operating Officer.
from the Arlberg mountains and actors from around the globe.
“We can’t ignore the fact that the pound has weakened recently, and so
“With special light effects, pyrotechnical features, music and more,
we’re encouraging guests to take advantage of our best-ever preview
Hannibal is for fans of musicals and theatrical extravaganzas: culture
offers to guarantee a great deal and ensure holiday spending money goes
brought to the mountains under nature’s roof,” a spokesperson said.
further next season.” inghams.co.uk/ski-holidays
The show takes place at 7.30pm and tickets cost from £37pp.
5% DISCOUNT
QUOTE CODE 'ITS'
SKI 4 CANCER’S EVEREST CHALLENGE GOES FOR WORLD RECORD from lots of different countries will be united by a disease which affects us all irrespective of nationality. Skiing the height of Mount Everest in one day is a tough challenge though, even for advanced skiers like Mr Eddie Edwards!”
High Quality Catered + Self Catered Accommodation
“We all know someone who has been affected by cancer, so if you’ve yet to book your ski trip for this year, why not join us? Become a World Record holder and help people living with cancer at the same time.” Ski 4 Cancer was set up by a group of keen skiers and snowboarders who have all lost a close relative UK ski charity Ski 4 Cancer is calling
of Mount Everest (8,848m) as one
areas in the world with 270km of
or friend to cancer. The charity
for skiers from across Europe in an
large group and raise funds for Ski
piste. Andy Hayward, Trustee at
provides a range of alpine respite
attempt to set a new World Record
4 Cancer at the same time, will take
Ski 4 Cancer, said, “We’re looking
holidays for families living with
alongside ski jumping legend
place in the Austrian ski resort of
for 500 skiers from across Europe
cancer, makes grants to palliative
Eddie “The Eagle” Edwards. The
Saalbach on Thursday 9 March.
who want to become World Record
care centres and supports research.
challenge, to descend the height
Saalbach is one of the largest ski
holders. In this unique event, skiers
ski4cancer.org/Everest
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
007 // FEB17
French and Swiss Alps Snow Sure Resorts On / Near Piste locations No Hidden Extras Financially Bonded
0151 625 1921 mountainheaven.co.uk
FREERIDE NO.17 Where’s Your Focus? Graphene is an e l e m e n t o f j oy. N eve r b e fo r e h a s a m a te r i a l m a d e skiing so much fun. Not only is Graphene t h e w o r l d ’s s t r o n g e s t m a te r i a l . I t ’s a l s o t h e l i g h te s t . A n d w h e n u s e d to m a n i p u l a te weight distribution, yo u ’ l l g e t u n p a r a l l e l e d balance and control. G r a p h e n e s i m p l y m a ke s the skis do the work so yo u r fe e l i n g o f j oy l a s t s l o n g e r. # V i v a J oy
j oy. h e a d .co m
Phil Smith, Director of Snoworks
“Now” focusing means you’re
“Now” focusing is easy to say but
Learn to bring your focus into the
Ski Courses, talks about the
focusing on what is happening to
not so easy to do, as the number of
“now” and you’ll be amazed how
importance of focus.
you, not what is going to happen or
distractions can be endless – other
quickly your performance can start
“The future is a mystery, the past is
what has happened. Many skiers
skiers, bumps, ice, bad visibility,
to improve. You’ll begin to adjust
history, now is a gift, that is why it is
are focusing well into the future
trees, cold feet, fogged-up goggles
to changes in the snow, be able
called the present.”
or reflecting on the past, so the
as well as technical issues such as
to slow down at will, push deeper
A great quote and one that I
ability to adjust to the changing
hands forward, body position and
snow aside, and cope with ice,
constantly use when teaching all-
conditions is compromised.
width of stance. Then we can have
bumps and variable snow.
mountain skiing.
The requirement to be “now”
all the other stuff swirling around
Of course, in all-mountain skiing,
Focus, or as it is more commonly
focused in changing conditions,
called, concentration, can be
however, does present a conflict
this requires a “future”
likened to a spotlight in the theatre.
in all-mountain skiing, as safety
focus. So you’ll need to
The centre of the spotlight is the
issues require a focus more into
learn when to focus on the
brightest, and the further you
the future. Where am I going,
“now” and when to focus on
move away from the centre, the
where are the islands of safety,
the “future”. Future focusing
less bright it becomes. Your focus
terrain traps, lines, convex slopes?
can be done before you
is exactly the same; the centre of
Great all-mountain skiers have
set off. Slope angle, snow
your focus is bright and the outside
therefore learnt to switch focus
texture, islands of safety,
of your focus is less bright.
very quickly hundreds of times
terrain traps. Make a plan
How and where you direct your
in every run between focusing
focus can have a drastic effect on
on safety issues (future) and
your performance and learning. It
adjusting to the changes in
can help or hinder.
snow and terrain (now). Or they
When learning to ski, most
have learnt to either direct the
Phil Smith is founder of Snoworks
rather than filling your mind
skiers have their focus directed
centre of the focus to the “now”
All-Mountain Ski Courses. Snoworks
with other information. Of
well into the future. Where am I
and the periphery to the “future”
run Off-Piste and Backcountry
course, things change as
going, what’s ahead, where’s my
or vice versa depending on the
courses throughout the winter along
you are skiing, and at times
instructor? In fact, if you remember
greatest need.
with Off-Piste Adventure trips to
you’ll need to switch from
back to your very first lessons, you
Leaving the safety issues aside
destinations around the world.
“now” focus to “future”
will probably remember being told,
just for a moment and looking
info@snoworks.co.uk
focus to check conditions
“Don’t look down, look ahead”, so
at your performance, you will
ahead, but this can be done
people get used to focusing well
begin to recognise that more or
when the conditions are
into the future.
less every time you lose control
This is all fine when the environment,
on your skis it can probably be
in our heads. How am I doing, how
begin to learn when and how to
the snow texture and terrain is
attributed to a loss of focus or a
do I look, am I skiing correctly, what
switch. Your focus will become
constant, such as on well-groomed
distraction that takes your focus
does so-and-so think of my skiing?
as skilfully controlled as other
blue and red runs, but as we move
away from the “now” (dealing with
So the distractions pulling you away
aspects of your skiing. You’ll
into all-mountain skiing where the
the changing conditions) to either
from “now” focusing are endless.
suddenly realise what “skiing in
terrain and snow texture begin
the future (what’s going to happen),
To ski in the “now”, you have
the now” is all about and your
to change, every second, every
the past (what has happened) or
to learn to let go of all the stuff
skiing will develop a new life,
millisecond, every nanosecond, a
something else entirely unrelated
distracting you from skiing in the
one that is in harmony with the
“now” focus is required.
to the changing snow and terrain.
“now” moment.
changing mountain.
008 // FEB17
safety is the major factor, and
PHIL SMITH SNOWORKS
before you set off so when skiing you can be dealing with and adjusting to the changing conditions (“now”)
more constant and you’ll
SNOWORKS.CO.UK
BAUSE.AT
NEW HALF-TERM COACH SERVICE TO LES 2 ALPES
SAFETY CONCERNS OVER SELFIES WHILE SKIING
HOW MUCH FOR A SKIER’S GLASS OF COLA?
Snow Express, the UK to French Alps direct bus service, has
A travel insurance company is claiming that their research has revealed
A company called HomeToGo has researched the cost of a 330ml
launched a new route to Les 2 Alpes for the February half-term
that just over half (51%) of experienced skiers have been injured while
glass of a well-known brand of cola in ski resorts across Europe.
week. Departing London on Friday 10 February 2017 (5.30pm) and
trying to film or photograph themselves on black slopes or off-piste, with
Contacting restaurants direct and checking prices on restaurant
leaving the resort on Saturday 18 February 2017 (6.15pm), the return
28% of them requiring medical treatment as a result. Injuries related to
websites, they found the cheapest cola working out at 80p a glass,
trip costs £199pp.
filming were lower (27%) on red slopes and at 16% on blue slopes.
the most expensive £6.50 – more than eight times more. The average
At the time of writing, for arrival and departure on the same dates,
The research, by insurer Columbus Direct, revealed that nearly
price came in at £3.12.
one well-known low-cost airline was charging well in excess of
three-quarters (72%) of skiers and snowboarders admit to filming or
Unsurprisingly, Eastern European resorts had the lowest prices with
£1,500 for the lowest cost fares for a family with two adults and two
photographing themselves in action.
restaurants in Bansko, Bulgaria, the cheapest at 80p. Saalbach in
children (including hold luggage), with times that make it extremely
“The urge to obtain the best selfie or GoPro footage of themselves in
Austria was cheapest of the big resorts in the Alps at £2.45.
difficult and expensive to get to the resort on arrival. Most of the
action means experienced skiers and snowboarders, those who ski on
Livigno in Italy, known for its cheap duty-free alcohol prices, was
fares with times that work well are in excess of £2,000 for a family
black runs or go off-piste, are risking serious injury,” a statement from
below the European average at £2.50, but Grandvaira in Andorra,
of four, with the prime-time fare coming in at over £3,340. That
Columbus asserts.
which has a similar reputation, was slightly above the average price at
doesn’t include the transfer costs from airport to resort.
“Experienced skiers and snowboarders know that the mountains can
£3.50, the same as “upmarket” Austrian destination Lech Zürs.
“Since starting Snow Express in the winter of 2009/10, we have
be unpredictable and you need to focus on your activity to avoid injury,”
French resorts were the most expensive when it comes to buying a
carried over 14,000 passengers to the Alps, and increasingly we
commented four-time British Winter Olympian Chemmy Alcott, who added:
cola, according to the HomeToGo survey. Courchevel, also home to
are finding people use the service for convenience rather than just
“The range of technological equipment you can take to the slopes now is
the most 5★ hotels and the most luxury ski chalets of any resort in the
the cost saving,” said Snow Express founder Dave Manley. “We are
incredible, and it’s fantastic to be able to record your experience, but it’s
world, had the £6.50 cola.
carrying more families, and our passenger age range goes right up
important to remember to take care and put your safety ahead of the selfie!”
Despite their reputation for high prices due to the strong Swiss franc,
to 85 years old.”
The research for Columbus was carried out by an organisation called
Swiss resorts did not top the list. Verbier was sixth most expensive at
Snow Express operates to 40 French ski resorts, and fares start
Opinium; “among a representative sample of 2,000 adults completed
£4.28, St Moritz ninth most at £3.70 and Zermatt, which has Europe’s
from £99pp. snowexpress.co.uk
between 24 and 28 November,” the company states. columbusdirect.com
most expensive lift pass, outside the top 10 at £3.35 for a cola.
+33 (0)4 79 06 18 88 RESERVATION@HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM EN.HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM
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NATHAN GALLAGHER
ANOTHER
ENJOY GREAT CUISINE – EVEN LEARN TO COOK IT YOURSELF
T
All four chalets in the stylish R&S Chalet
a larger-than-life character simply known to all
Collection offer excellent facilities including
as “Cookie”, will be running Cookie’s Kitchen
en-suite bathrooms and hot tubs, top-notch
Workshop Experience, which will include five
service and are in great locations. But one of the
days combining tuition in the kitchen from the
key ways in which the company rises above the
main man Cookie himself, plus the opportunity of
competition is in the exceptional cuisine they
having four or five hours ski time on the mountain
provide in the chalets, from brilliant breakfasts
each day as well.
right through to sumptuous dinners, all aimed
The R&S Chalet Collection includes properties
at making your stay even more enjoyable and
that have been divided into silver, gold and
unforgettable.
platinum standard to suit your budget and taste.
Indeed the food served up in R&S Chalets has
All offer a wholesome breakfast to start your
proved so popular that the company will be
day, and in family and group-friendly silver
running cooking and skiing workshops over
accommodation, guests receive a three-
several weeks at the end of the season where
course meal on six nights of the week with
guests can not only enjoy the great cuisine the
complimentary house wine. In the gold-rated
he R&S Chalet Collection luxury catered chalets in
company’s chefs serve up day in, day out, but
chalet there’s a gourmet four-course dinner and
Morzine in the French Alps, at the heart of one of
also learn some inside tips on how to create
in the platinum chalets guests enjoy an exquisite,
the world’s largest ski areas, the Portes du Soleil,
similar great meals themselves.
fourcourse dinner and sommelier’s selection of
offer chalet ski holiday living at its very finest.
R&S Chalet Collection’s exceptional Head Chef,
complimentary paired wines.
RH2 MIPS HELMET
010 // FEB17
RSCHALETCOLLECTION.COM
B LONGO
REAL-TIME SKIER FLOW INFORMATION NOW AVAILABLE IN LES 3 VALLÉES
Skiers in the Val Thorens area of
via sensors on the runs and then
equipment is being updated with
Grand Fond areas where there are
Les 3 Vallées in France are now
presents live data on display
new geo-localisation devices. In
three giant screens (measuring 3m
able to get an idea of how busy
boards positioned at key junctions
introducing these resources, Val
x 2m and seven times brighter than
the slopes below them are and
in the run network so skiers can
Thorens is a truly pioneering and
a standard screen). Besides data on
make route decisions as they ski
see how busy runs below them are.
visionary force in terms of what will
how busy individual slopes are, the
or board based on how crowded
The system is known as Ski Flux.
become common practice in three
system also provides other specific
or not each of a choice of trails
“The digital revolution is well on its
or four years’ time,” said Benjamin
up-to-the minute information such
below them may be.
way for French slope maintenance
Blanc, head of the Belleville Valley
as different snow levels on the runs,
The Valley has installed technology
services – both in terms of skier
slope maintenance service.
a geo-localised weather report and
which measures the flow of skiers
enjoyment and safety. Ski patrol
Ski Flux is being trialled in the
itinerary tips.
FIRST INTERNATIONAL GROUP SKI TRIP TO IRAQ
LEARN TO SKI FOR FREE IN LA CLUSAZ
Travel company Untamed Borders has staged what is believed to be the
La Clusaz in the French Alps will be giving first-time skiers the chance
first international commercial group ski trip to Iraq.
to learn to ski for free during a three-week period in April.
The company offered a trip including some ski touring and a visit to the
The promotion, which will run from 8 to 28 April, includes the
country’s one mountain resort of Korek, which was staging its annual
provision of a free beginner ski lesson for adults, a free ski pass for
snow festival at the time with reported excellent snow conditions.
beginner adults and a 50% discount on equipment hire.
Korek Mountain is located near the city of Rawanduz in the Arbil
The French ski school (ESF) will organise the free beginners group
Governorate of Iraqi Kurdistan and only 120km (75 miles) east of the city
lessons for adults over three half days, from Monday to Wednesday
of Mosul, where Iraqi forces have spent the past four months trying to
morning, or five half days, from Monday to Friday morning To qualify for
beat IS in their last major stronghold.
the offer (limited availability), new skiers should first book their free ski
Korek opened in 2014 with a modern gondola lift but its initial business
lessons (via: info@esf-laclusaz.com). They will then be provided with a
plans were thwarted by the sudden rise of IS. There are no ski lifts
Beginner ESF group lesson card with which they can collect their ski pass
but there is a nursery slope where lessons are offered. Other facilities
from the resort’s Central Ski Lifts Booking offices and obtain half-priced
include a sledging slope and a zip line.
beginner ski or board equipment rental from a selection of ski shops.
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
011 // FEB17
MICHAEL GONCALVES
AVORIAZ AND PIERRE & VACANCES CELEBRATE 50 YEARS
A
The ski area’s success also led
Avoriaz all winter, and there are also
Lil’Stash, a dedicated junior Stash
to the founding of the Pierre
a few infrastructure improvements.
natural terrain park for children
& Vacances company, which
Famous for its 25 horse-drawn
aged six to 14 with age-specific
became synonymous with
sleighs that help to carry skiers
features, layout and decor.
functional and affordable family ski
around the car-free resort, this winter
The new fun zone is in the Proclou
accommodation across resorts in
Avoriaz has introduced a new snow
area and covers a landscape of
the French Alps, helping to make
transport vehicle as an alternative.
natural side valleys, part of which
ski holidays possible for far more
The new tracked vehicle has
is forested. Like its big brother, The
people than ever before.
a futuristic appearance and is
Stash, The Lil’Stash boasts a series
Now 50 years on, Groupe Pierre
designed to transport up to 12
of features made of snow and
& Vacances is Europe’s largest
people in comfort along with their
wood: a mini boarder cross, a snake
voriaz, the only car-free major
holiday accommodation provider,
luggage, which is stored in a large
run, an XS-sized kicker, whoop-
ski resort in France, and still
owning four main brands operating
baggage compartment.
de-doos, a zone of slides and fun
appearing futuristic in its
282 sites around Europe totalling
In addition, after three years in
boxes, a zone of “snow surfaces” for
architectural design, is celebrating
46,000 apartments and houses.
development, Burton snowboards
practising turns, a wooden bridge
its 50th anniversary in 2017.
Celebrations are continuing in
and Avoriaz have launched The
and an undulating forest zone.
FIRST FRENCH YOGA SLOPE OPENS AT MORZINE OPENING DECEMBER 5
TH
NEW HOTELRESTAURANT www.rockypop-chamonix.com reservation@rockypop.com 1476 AVENUE DES ALPAGES 74310 LES HOUCHES TEL +33 (0)4 85 30 00 00
Morzine has opened the first slope
should tackle each yoga stance with
in France dedicated to yoga for
their skis perpendicular to the slope.
skiers. Skiers and boarders can
Yoga exercises included in the
practice 10 yoga postures as they
10 listed include energy-gaining
descend the Lievre run in the
postures (Prana) as well as
resort’s Nyon sector, either on
balancing and stability ones
their own or with instructors from
(Asana), breathing exercises
the ESF ski school, who organise
to unify body and movement
weekly ski yoga sessions.
(Vinyasa), and tools to relax
The yoga exercises have been
(Savasana), to refocus (Om) and
chosen so that they can be done on
to fully appreciate the mountain’s
skis with the aim of getting the body
benefits and beauty (Namaste).
in better shape for winter sports,
“The Yogi Run offers the chance
for skiing,” said a Morzine
than what you feel comfortable
according to a statement from
to connect with this exceptional
spokesperson, who added: “Listen
with, and stay in each posture for
Morzine, which advises that skiers
natural site while getting ready
to your body: never push further
as long as you feel its benefit.”
012 // FEB17
@INTHESNOWMAG
OFF PISTE & SKI TOUR Various resorts Prices from
FREE LIFT PASSES AT
CRANS LUXURY LODGES
T
because as an added bonus visitors
a concierge service to provide
to 40 people).
will receive free lift passes if they
all information needed and make
Crans Luxury Lodges chalets feature
book a week-long stay that month.
bookings as required; a continental
open kitchens and dining rooms
Crans Luxury Lodges are a selection
breakfast is also delivered to your
(a private chef can be booked if
of five exceptional ski-in/ ski-out
chalet each morning.
required). There’s plenty of leisure
chalets to choose from, all located
Each fully-furnished chalet has
and lounge space in each chalet, as
on a high, sunny plateau and on
its own style, decor and design,
well as a wine cellar, a large terrace
land that has been owned by the
beautifully blending the best of
with a stunning view, a fireplace
same family for four centuries!
traditional and modern. Each chalet
and a private spa with an infinity
Along with its fantastic location,
extends to 250m2 spread over two
Jacuzzi and dry sauna. The chalets’
Crans Luxury Lodges is all about
or three floors with plenty of space
elegant bedrooms boast sumptuous
for 8 to 10 guests in each, making
en-suite bathrooms and of course
thought through by the owners to
it the perfect place to stay with
there’s inclusive housekeeping and
always offer a fantastic place to stay
ensure that you have a true home-
your family, friends or colleagues (if
a final cleaning service.
when visiting the famous Swiss resort
from-home stay, with everything
needed there’s a professional, fully
cransluxurylodges.com
of Crans Montana, but during March
you need available to you. Hotel
equipped meeting area of 90m2
michel@cransluxurylodges.com
a visit becomes even more enticing,
services are provided including
available for small seminars of up
+41 27 480 35 08
STEPHANE GROS
comfort with everything carefully
he stunning Crans Luxury Lodges
BOOK A CHALET FOR A WEEK IN MARCH AND GET YOUR SKI PASSES FOR FREE!
£665 £550 £523
MARCH & APRIL – SKI & SNOWBOARD Various resorts Prices from
EASTER FAMILY WEEK Serre Chevalier
d e d u l c n i All the price: in
on commodati 7 nights ac All meals Lift pass hire Equipment struction 12 hours in
Action Outdoors is the UK partner of UCPA, the largest provider of instructed and guided ski/snowboard courses in Europe. Offering all inclusive courses for all levels, from beginner instruction to expert level off piste and ski tour/splitboard expeditions, ensures there is a UCPA course suitable for everyone.
For more information and to book:
www.action-outdoors.co.uk THE UK PARTNE
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
CRANSLUXURYLODGES.COM
R FOR
SKIING
ITALY'S POWDER
POCKET WORDS: ANDY TAYLOR | PHOTO: FRED FOTO
014 // FEB17
@INTHESNOWMAG
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I
AOSTA-VALLEY.CO.UK
Foto © Christoph Schöch
18-25 19-25 CHRIS GEARY
11 Ski Color
European Snow Pride
Rock the Pistes Festival
LES GETS, FRANCE
TIGNES, FRANCE
PORTES DU SOLEIL, FRANCE/SWITZERLAND
This wonderfully unique event returns to Les
Billed as Europe’s biggest gay pride festival
The seventh edition of the Rock the Pistes Festival
Gets for its third incarnation. Ski down the
on snow, there are some snowsports involved
sees free concerts on the slopes you ski to each
slopes in white overalls and get splattered
if you want, but it’s more about the après-
afternoon around this big ski area with additional
with multi-coloured paint as you descend.
ski parties from around 3pm to 5am daily.
pop-up concerts and extra après-ski in the
There’s a big party too.
europeansnowpride.com
region’s resorts.
2
GIUSEPPE GHEDINA
LES 3 VALLÈES / CHRISTIAN ARNAL
23-26 1-9 Freeride Challenge
Xtreme Verbier
3 Vallées Enduro
CORTINA D’AMPEZZO, ITALY
VERBIER, SWITZERLAND
LES 3 VALLÉES, FRANCE
A competitive event showcasing freeride, ski
Watch future world champions launch off the
The race that can start and end at different resorts
mountaineering and competitive climbing with
unforgiving face of Bec des Rosses as they
in the world’s biggest ski area and has different
a whole series of collateral events and parties.
compete in the grand finale of the
categories allowing families and children to take
freeridepuntanera.com
Freeride World Tour. freerideworldtour.com
part returns for its 2017 outing.
FATBOY SLIM / VOLVO SNOWBOMBING
L AT E S E A S O N D I A R Y 2-9 3-8 22 POLE BLUE BIRD VARIO GLOVE ELEMENTS PALLADIUM S
ALPINE/FREERIDE STOCKIST INFO ADMIN@ARDBLAIRSPORTS.COM | 01250 873863 WWW.LEKI.COM
The BRITS
Snowbombing
89th Annual Slush Cup
LAAX, SWITZERLAND
MAYRHOFEN, AUSTRIA
SUNSHINE VILLAGE, BANFF, CANADA
Established back in 1989, The British Snowboard
Famous for its adrenaline-fuelled snowboarding
Sunshine Village’s largest event surprisingly
and Freeski Championships combine world-
and crazy partying, the annual Snowbombing
takes place on the last day of its very long
class competition featuring likely 2018 Olympic
festival will take over the resort of Mayrhofen in
season. Slush Cup will have been running for 90
medal winners and a full après party scene with
the Zillertal, with leading DJs, club nights and
years next year. The aim is to skim across a pool
many fun events. the-brits.com
live acts performing. snowbombing.com
of icy water.
016 // FEB17
@INTHESNOWMAG
SCHOOLCHILDREN SKI FOR £1 Aimee Fuller and Graham Bell. The week is targeted at individual pupils or full classes at primary and secondary schools, as well as sixth form colleges across England. Offers include a 60-minute beginner taster session for £1 at Runcorn Snowsports Centre or a 50-minute taster session at Ski Rossendale. Delancey British Alpine Team skier Dave Ryding, who recently became the first British skier to podium in a World Cup race in over 35 years, said: “I started skiing on a dry slope when I was at school and loved getting out on the slopes after school and at weekends. There is no better sport to stay active while spending time with friends. I am supporting Dry slopes and indoor snow
Snowsport Week, which is
Taking place from 24 to 30 April
National Schools Snowsport Week
centres across England will offer
sponsored by Visit Andorra, this
2017, this year’s National Schools
because I want children of all
schoolchildren the chance to
spring. Also, 20 slopes are set
Snowsport Week is backed by
ages and all backgrounds to be
ski or snowboard from £1 during
to run free or heavily discounted
Winter Olympians Eddie “The
given the chance to try skiing or
the second National Schools
activities as part of the event.
Eagle” Edwards, Dave Ryding,
snowboarding.” nssw.co.uk
£1.1 MILLION SKI ROSSENDALE UPGRADE APPROVED
23 YEARS OF SKIING EVERY MONTH OF THE YEAR
The Ski Rossendale dry ski centre in Rawtenstall, Lancashire, is to get
A Canadian man living in the USA has gone skiing each month for 23
a £1.1 million upgrade to make it an Olympic training centre for freestyle
years, a total of 280 straight months.
skiers and boarders. The plans involve building a 4.5m-high tower at the
Software engineer Danny Miller has been skiing monthly since 1993 at
top of the main slope to provide greater vertical, then at the same time
ski areas on the Pacific Northwest in Canada and the USA, using lifts in
excavating the existing slope by up to 4m, then rebuilding it to provide
the ski season and hiking up out of season.
a steeper profile for the pursuit. At the base of the slope there will be
Miller told The Seattle Times that he started off hiking up in alpine ski
ski jumps and a big air bag to cushion landings. The two changes to the
boots originally but that equipment had improved over the years and
slope vertical and gradient, along with a special “faster” artificial slope
that he now used ski touring equipment. Snow conditions and weather
surface, will provide skiers and boarders with the chance to ski or board
forecasts had also improved dramatically.
faster before hitting the new jumps.
He said that far more people now hiked up like he did but that
The existing café building at the base of the slope will also be
climate change meant he had to hike higher than he used to in
reconfigured to be used as a training base room for athletes, complete
order to reach the snow. His target each month is to find at least
with dining area and rest lounge.
100m of skiable vertical.
“The proposed new reduced-risk training facility will provide a first-class
Miller, now 49, told The Seattle Times he had no plans to stop, but
training facility for GB Park and Pipe elite athletes,” Clive Williams, the
would do when it stopped being fun. “I’m not the best skier, just the
scheme’s planning agent, told local media.
most stubborn,” he said.
+33 (0)4 50 54 55 56 reservation@heliopic.com
heliopic-hotel-spa.com FB.COM/INTHESNOW
017 // FEB17
threevalleetransfers www.3vt.co.uk | +44 (0)1323 351964
PRIVATE & SHARED TRANSFERS TO LES 3 VALLÉES
ONLINE YOGA FOR SKIERS AND YOGA SKI RETREATS
CHALET FOR SALE Morgins, Portes du Soleil
3 bedrooms, bathroom, shower room, cheminée, separate garage authorised for non-Swiss
A
are free to access, and running ski
worked muscles,” a statement from
and outdoor hot tub, and the menu
holiday packages this winter with
the company explains.
is wholesome Alpine fare with a
a strong yoga and holistic living
The Snow Yoga retreats that
healthy twist of superfoods and
element to them.
Soulshine are organising this
with gluten-free, vegetarian and
The online classes, which feature
season aim to improve both well-
vegan options available.
Soulshine’s founder and expert
being and health by combining
Packages, starting on Sundays,
yogi Soulla Demetriou, are free
the restorative benefits of yoga,
cost from £1,190pp and include
to access via the company’s
meditation and massage with the
half-board accommodation plus
soulshineretreats.com website.
cardio and excitement of skiing or
tea and cake every afternoon; a
“Preparing the body for the slopes
snowboarding, leaving participants
daily 60-minute morning yoga
with yoga not only warms up muscles
refreshed, revitalised and motivated.
session; a daily 75-minute yoga,
company called Soulshine Retreats,
but it can also prevent strain or injury
The seven-night Soulshine Snow
meditation and relaxation evening
which specialises in holistic yoga
by strengthening key muscle groups
Yoga and Ski Adventure retreat
session; a 30-minute massage; a
retreats in Ibiza and France, has
and improving balance. After a day
is based in Chalet Montperron,
complimentary airport transfer; and
made a move into the snow travel
of skiing, yoga’s restorative aspects
12 minutes’ drive from the La
a daily morning and evening shuttle
market, launching a collection of
come into play and help soothe away
Rosière ski area in France. Chalet
service to and from the chalet to
online Snow Yoga Classes that
any après-ski aches and loosen well-
Montperron has a private sauna
the ski lifts.
CHF 595,000
aldwinckle@waitrose.com +44 (0)207 624 8223
NEW LUXURY LONDON APARTMENTS OFFER SNOW CABINS Buyers of new flats at One
– small rooms refrigerated to
Blackfriars in London, a 50-storey
sub-zero temperatures and filled
tower with views across to St Paul’s
with machine-made snow for the full
Cathedral costing up to £23 million
Scandinavian sauna-then-roll-in-the-
and overlooking the Thames, are
snow experience.
being offered their own indoor “snow
Sales of luxury property in London is
cabins” as an added attraction. Other
reported to have dropped by more
attractions on offer include a virtual
than 85% since the Brexit vote, and
golf course, a whisky bar, a wine-
developers are said to be looking for
tasting room, a hot-stone massage
new attractions to entice buyers.
parlour and a 20-seat cinema.
The developers of One Blackfriars
The snow cabins are said to be
are reported to have donated £29
similar to those offered by some
million for the building of affordable
luxury hotels within their spas
homes elsewhere in the region.
018 // FEB17
@INTHESNOWMAG
게임에1년 A YEAR TO
THE GAMES!
PARK WON-IL
WORDS: PATRICK THORNE
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019 // FEB17
020 // FEB17
@INTHESNOWMAG
I
t only seems like yesterday we were getting excited about the $50 billion Sochi Winter Olympics in Russia,
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남한 동계 올림픽 The South Korean Winter Olympics
held in six Winter Paralympic sports, with 80 medal events in total. Snowboarding will be expanded into a separate discipline for the Pyeongchang Games, with 10 medal events (in 2014, two medal
when the biggest-ever spend
The South Koreans have not splashed the cash like
events in snowboarding were held within the alpine
on ski resort infrastructure
the Russians, but as a country known for its high
skiing programme).
was splashed out by the
standard of living and high-quality infrastructure,
government and its oligarch
top-notch facilities should be the order of the day.
friends and Britain won only
Indeed, the various 2018 Olympic venues are now
our second-ever Olympic
all but complete, and the world’s top athletes have
snowsports medal – and the
already been competing in test events last winter
first one we got to keep!
and will do again this.
Now it’s only a year until the
The construction of the venues has not been
Winter Olympics are back,
without controversy, however. A key issue was
There’s still a year to go, but here are a dozen of
for their 23rd staging, this
that although there are a dozen or so ski resorts
the biggest talents on the British team:
time further east still in South
in South Korea, there was no existing ski run with
Korea, and hopes
조심하는 영국 선수 Brits To Watch Out For
a big enough vertical to host the blue ribbon
Dave Ryding (Alpine Slalom):
are high for more British medals after
Men’s Olympic Downhill. Various solutions were
five top 15 World Cup Slalom finishes.
snowboarder Jenny Jones’s bronze in the Sochi
suggested including building a bit more mountain
Katie Ormerod (Park & Pipe Snowboard):
Slopestyle competition.
on top of the existing biggest vertical so that it was
World Cup Big Air gold in Moscow plus four other
The Sochi Paralympics of course saw huge
big enough, but in the end a whole new ski area
World Cup podiums this season, X Games invite.
success for British skiers, with a haul of six
was created, reportedly involving the removal of
James ‘Woodsy’ Woods (Park & Pipe Ski):
medals including four for Jade Etherington with
ancient woodland, which was not a popular move
gold in Cardrona Games Slopestyle in the summer,
her guide Caroline Powell (making them the most
with environmental groups.
performed well in Dew Tour, got X Games invite.
successful British women in the history of the
Fifteen winter-sports disciplines will be included in
Jamie Nicholls (Park & Pipe Snowboard):
Winter Paralympics) and the first-ever British gold
the Pyeongchang Games, divided into seven Olympic
gold in World Cup Slopestyle last season.
won by Kelly Gallagher. The Pyeongchang Winter
sports and spread over 102 separate events – the first
Katie Summerhayes (Park & Pipe Ski):
Paralympics, their 12th staging, begins 12 days
time the Winter Games has hosted more than 100.
Sixth in World Cup Slopestyle last season at 2018
after the Olympics Closing Ceremony.
Seven of the 15 sports take place on skis or
Olympic venue Bokwang.
South Korea last hosted an Olympics, the Summer
snowboard – downhill there’s alpine, freestyle, ski
Kelly Gallagher (Paralympic Alpine Skiing):
Games, three decades ago at Seoul in 1988.
jumping and snowboarding, and there’s also cross-
gold medal holder from 2014 Sochi Olympics.
They’re the first country in Asia to hold the Winter
country, Nordic combined and biathlon.
Isabel Atkin (Park & Pipe Ski):
Games other than Japan, which has staged it
The games will see four new events, including two of
Fourth in Dew Tour this season.
twice before. However, the Winter and Summer
interest to skiers and boarders: snowboarding big air
Billy Morgan (Park & Pipe Snowboard):
Games will be staying in Asia for a while with
and the alpine skiing team event. Parallel slalom in
World Cup bronze in Moscow, X Games invite.
Tokyo hosting the next Summer Games in 2020
snowboarding has been dropped in favour of big air.
Lloyd Wallace (Aerials):
followed by China for the 2022 Winter Olympics.
Competitions in the 2018 Winter Paralympics will be
Seventh last season in Deer Valley World Cup.
PYEONGCHANG2018.COM
2018 OLYMPICS FACT BOX Host city: Pyeongchang Official sites: pyeongchang2018.com paralympic.org/pyeongchang-2018 teamgb.com/games/pyeongchang-2018 teambss.org.uk Events: 102 in seven sports (15 disciplines) Olympic Opening Ceremony: 9 February 2018 Olympic Closing Ceremony: 25 February 2018 Paralympics Opening Ceremony: 9 March 2018 Paralympics Closing Ceremony: 18 March 2018
기발한 사실 Some Quirky Facts
거기에 도착 Getting To The Games
Ski Cross, Ski-Halfpipe and Ski Slopestyle whilst
Did you know…
The jury is currently out on how easy it will be
boarders will take part in Snowboard Parallel Giant
• South Korea is rated number 1 as the world’s
to attend the Games if you want to go in person.
Andrew Musgrave (Nordic):
we’re putting most of the public money for elite
Tenth in Val Mustair World Cup this season.
snowsports athletes as a result of that success.
Andrew Young (Nordic):
Freestyle skiers will compete in Moguls, Aerials,
Eleventh in Val Mustair World Cup this season. Emily Sarsfield (Ski Cross): Fifteenth in Innichen World Cup this season.
Slalom, Snowboard Cross, Halfpipe, Slopestyle and
safest global destination based on the “Crime
Tour operators who have organised trips during
Big Air, all of which will be battled out at Bokwang.
Index by Country 2016”.
previous Olympics or offer ski trips to South
The new Jeongseon Alpine Centre is that
• Tonga was admitted to the International Ski
Korea anyway are saying that they can’t access
controversial new downhill skiing centre, created
Federation (FIS) in July last year, and now a
available accommodation so can’t offer packages.
between 2014 and 2017, with the biggest vertical in
London-born skier of Tongan descent, Kasete
The best bet looks likely to be organising your
Korea. It has been built to host the downhill alpine
Naufahu Skeen, is aiming to compete in
own trip, and with the Olympic organisers
events including Super-G and Alpine Combined as
the Giant Slalom and Super Giant Slalom as
promising fast, friendly, efficient transport
All of the Olympic venues are located within 30
well as the big men’s and women’s downhills. The
part of a team of four skiers to represent the
between venues, if you can find accommodation,
minutes of the central Alpensia Sports Park, the
men’s course is 2,852m long with 825m of vertical
Pacific island.
it should be a doddle.
‘hub’ of the Games.
and a steepest pitch of 31.8%.
The Bokwang snow park may be the venue where
Finally, the Yongpyong Alpine Centre is one of South
hosting with North Korea, but North Korea is
in October and cost from 20,000 Korean Won
Brits get the most medals as this is where freestyle
Korea’s largest ski resorts. It will host the slalom and
reported to have turned down the invitation and
(about £14) to 900,000 Won (£620), although about
skiing and snowboarding events – 20 competitions
giant slalom ski events. Slalom is of course the sport
instead built its own ski area.
half are priced at less than 80,000 Won (£54).
in total – take place. These include the events
where Alain Baxter won our first Olympic bronze
where we’ve won the Sochi medal, where our
medal at the Salt Lake Games in 2002 and where we
to represent his country in snowboarding
Games dates, though, if you’d like to visit the
athletes have podiumed and even won gold this
have our best hope on the alpine skiing side of Team
and become the first-ever Ugandan at the
venues before the Games. Ski Safari organise
season in World Cup competitions, and where
GB in the shape of Dave Ryding.
Winter Olympics.
tours (skisafari.com/south-korea).
개최지 The Venues
022 // FEB17
• South Korea investigated ways to share Olympic
• US-based Brolin Mawejje, 24, is hoping
Tickets for the 2018 Winter Olympics went on sale
It’s easier to ski South Korea now outside of the
PYEONGCHANG2018.COM
WIKIPEDIA
ISRAEL Established in 1969 on land that was originally
lifts, 440m of skiable vertical between 1,600m
with 1999 the first winter when the centre was
part of Syria (and you never know, it may one
and 2,040m above sea level, and at its most
unable to open for snow sports at all due to a
day be again), Israel’s only snow skiing area,
optimistic measurement, around 45km of ski
lack of snow.
Mount Hermon, opened in 1969 on the famous
runs. There are 13 marked trails, a little over half
But Mt Hermon’s managers have invested in
Golan Heights, around two hours’ drive north of
of them graded red/intermediate, but there are
all-weather attractions including the only Alpine
Tel Aviv. Originally skiers used mules to get up
two black runs for more advanced skiers and
Coaster downhill roller coaster in the region,
the slopes, but the first ski lift was installed in
boarders plus a selection of easy and nursery
some 950m long and allowing users’ sleds to
1971 and then the centre expanded dramatically
slopes. An adult day pass costs 250 shekels –
reach a speed of up to 45kph.
from 1981 to 2000 when a more relaxed regime
or about £55 – so doesn’t come cheap.
However, when it does snow it can REALLY
was allowed to manage the region.
Snow cover can be problematic, since the turn
snow too. In January 2015 more than 1.7m
It is now located 200m from the Syrian border,
of the century, but when cover is good, typically
(nearly 6ft) of snow fell in just a few days,
with reported armed personnel and minefields
in blocks of five to 10 days at a time and usually
leaving teams of workers with a big job clearing
in the vicinity (the world’s highest UN peace
between January and March, the centre is
access roads and digging out lifts and buildings
patrol base is located in the region) and
very popular and the slopes can get very
to make the centre accessible, but even big
reputedly occasional incoming fire in the area.
crowded. Climate change has been blamed
snowfalls can thaw away quite quickly when
Mount Hermon has a dozen chair and drag
for a decrease in reliable snow cover in winter
there’s a change in the weather.
2017 Ski with Inghams this winter Andorra
Austria
F R O M O N LY
F R O M O N LY
Half-board
B e d & B r e a k fa s t
£529 France
£519 Italy
F R O M O N LY
F R O M O N LY
B e d & B r e a k fa s t
Half-board
£599
£579
Slovenia
Switzerland
£539
£579
F R O M O N LY
Half-board
F R O M O N LY
Half-board
Departures from 25 UK airports Call 01483 345 382 or visit inghams.co.uk 100% BONDED SECURITY FB.COM/INTHESNOW
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*Prices quoted are per person for 7 nights, include flights, transfers and catering as described on our website and are correct at time of going to print. All holidays subject to availability.
With over a decade of experience, R & S Chalet Collection offer the best in luxury chalet holidays in the French alpine resort of Morzine.
BLOW BONUS
THE PRIVATE MOUNTAIN
Choose from our exquisite, handpicked selection of catered chalets and luxury self-catered apartments, and let us host a mountain escape to remember.
WORDS: GABRIELLA LE BRETON
Top price:
resort boasts around 240 hectares of terrain
guests can have the entire resort to themselves,
$10,000/£8,200 per day for one person
(38 pistes), spread across two lift-connected
with ski equipment thrown in for good measure.
mountains. A network of sunny, tree-lined
You don’t, of course, have to invite 199 mates
Bargain price:
green and blue runs spans the higher of
along – you could always enjoy some prime
Bargain price: $50/£41 per day,
the two hills while several black diamond
me time on the hill and foot the $10,000 bill
based on 200 people skiing together
trails drop over 300 vertical metres off the
yourself. Although après-ski in the 16-person hot
long ridge opposite, which affords beautiful
tub in the Canyonside Lodge is definitely more
Having an entire mountain to yourself is the
views across the desert and Puffer Lake
fun with mates than on your own...
stuff of ski dreams – nobody in front of you at
below. There are also five backcountry gates,
The Lodge is one of two in the resort, both
the lifts, no powder pigs stealing your lines,
which offer access to untouched terrain best
comprising condominiums, a restaurant, bar,
and no-one beating you to beers at the bar.
explored with a local guide. All this is typically
disco, grocery shop and rental shop. For
However, unless you can afford to buy your
doused in 11m of light and dry snow each
something a little more worthy of a private
own mountain or you limit yourself to obscure
winter – average for Utah, the state that owns
mountain experience, there are also individual
resorts which nobody else actually wants to
the trademarked “Greatest Snow on Earth”,
cabins available to rent, but there’s no doubt
visit, you’ll struggle to find a mountain you can
but a bumper year for most other resorts in
that the best way to “do” Eagle Point is to
genuinely call yours and yours alone.
the world.
book yourself into the super-swanky Amangiri
But, there is a way and it’s called Eagle Point
Uniquely, Eagle Point Resort is open to the
hotel in Canyon Point, a twenty-minute scenic
Resort in Utah. Located three and a half hours’
public Friday to Monday yet up for exclusive
helicopter ride over the Utah desert from
drive south of Salt Lake City (and 30 minutes
grabs Tuesday through to Thursday (with the
the resort. The intimate property has space
from the sleepy town of Beaver, whose
exception of Christmas and New Year). When
for just 68 guests, which strikes us as the
biggest claim to fame is being the two-times
booked exclusively for a day (or three if you
perfect number of friends to invite to share a
winner of the best-tasting water in the US), the
really want to push the ski boat out), up to 200
mountain with for the day...
EAGLEPOINTRESORT.COM
SWISS RESORT RELEASES OWN CURRENCY
Be Ha Ski Moppy, re.
rejuvenate the ski slopes. Les Diablerets, which is located close to Gstaad, Villars and the Glacier 3000 ski area, struck 50,000 coins in the currency it calls the “Iseneau”. Each coin is worth CHF10 or £8, making the entire currency worth about £400,000. The coins can be used to buy goods and pay for services in the local area only and are offered as change by some businesses. So far, the main complaint is that people who are given them in change tend to keep them rather than using them again, so the coins, introduced in December, are not yet really circulating. The Swiss ski resort of Les
resort’s Iseneau ski sector. The lift
to do so. However, locals have
The currency initiative hopes
Diablerets has issued its own
is badly in need of replacement,
resisted plans to close the lift and
to raise CHF250,000 (around
currency, complete with an image
but it is increasingly hard for small
ski area – which is popular with
£201,650) by Easter towards a
of a gondola cabin on the coins.
ski areas to raise finance – public
beginners and families – down.
CHF13.5 million (£10.9 million) bill
The initiative is a bid to raise
or private – to replace lifts when
They believe a new lift, could
for the (yet to be 100% confirmed)
funds to replace a nearly 65-year-
there is not thought to be a strong
serve a growing summer hiking
new lift which is mostly being met
old four-seat gondola in the
enough long-term economic case
and biking market as well as
by the ski lift company.
VAIL RESORTS / JACK AFFLECK
It’s your ski holiday so it’s your choice… 60 resorts 8 countries
HIGHEST DAILY LIFT PASS PRICE PASSES £150
EXETER UNI CREATE SNOW SLOPE FOR ONE DAY ONLY
The price of a day’s skiing at some of the world’s-most-expensive-
Exeter University in Devon had snow for a skiing and snowboarding
to-buy-a-lift-ticket-in ski resorts has passed £150 for Brits due to a
competition that took place on the University’s Forum Hill at its
combination of factors. The trend towards supply-and-demand fluid
Streatham Campus on Saturday 21 January.
pricing has only increased the upward pressure on peak-time prices, and
Some 48 tonnes of real snow was delivered to the University
for Brits this spike in costs has been accentuated by the low value of the
from the Milton Keynes Snozone indoor snow centre, nearly 200
pound against the dollar following the Brexit vote earlier this year.
miles away.The snow was delivered for the “Chill Hill” rail jam
Vail Resorts said a one-day ticket on 1 January 2017 to ski at Vail or
that involved 30 skiers and boarders from six universities in the
Beaver Creek cost $189 – or around £154. Skiers could save $10 (around
South West region performing freestyle tricks with rails and boxes
£8) by buying their pass online in advance.
added to the snow slope.
It is not known how many skiers do buy their lift tickets in resort
“After a year of planning, hopefully all of our hard work will pay off
anymore. Vail Resorts have led an initiative to sell high-value season
and everyone will see just why we love this sport so much. I’m very
tickets valid at their dozen or so ski areas across North America and
excited we are hosting such an iconic event,” Lauren Fry, President of
Australia and several other leading ski resorts worldwide on any day all
the Athletic Union’s Snowsports Club, told the North Devon Journal
season, which can cost little more than the equivalent of three days of
before the event.
buying the walk-up day-pass in Vail at New Year. It has been reported
The event also raised money for Disability Snowsport UK with a
that more than half a million people buy this pass each season.
proportion of income from ticket sales donated to the charity.
17 UK airports Weekends, midweeks and weeks Hundreds of places to stay, chalets and hotel 2* to 5*
Helping you ski when, where and for as long as you want
Don’t just dream of snow,
book today…
Call one of our ski experts on
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or email sales@skiweekends.com
ERIC SCHRAMM
026 // NOV16
@INTHESNOWMAG
P ark City has been headlining US ski news for a few years now. It
was, of course, already one of the world’s most famous ski towns and was the main venue for ski and snowboarding events at the
Salt Lake City Olympics in Utah in 2002. But it hit the headlines as,
after a bitter legal fight and a few hundred million dollars spent, Vail Resorts managed to wrestle control of two of the city’s three ski areas and create the largest ski area in the USA as a result.
All this publicity has rather overshadowed Park City’s “other” ski area, Deer Valley, which could be quite a good thing for people
wanting to find a different bit of the resort town. Because until Park City got known for being the biggest area, Deer Valley had rather dominated the city’s reputation, famous for three things in particular: 1. Incredibly high service standards (for which it keeps winning ‘Best in North America’ awards from North Americans); 2. Being one of only three ski areas left in North America to ban snowboarders; and 3. Where Britain won our first-ever Olympic medal – a slalom bronze for Alain Baxter in those 2002 Olympics – only to have it unfairly taken from us in a drug abuse storm so serious it centres on a Vicks Sinex. Sadly no one with authority seems to have spotted the gross stupidity of this and given Alain the medal he won back. But now with everyone obsessed with Park City Mountain (that’s the “new” big ski area, if you’re getting confused), you can enjoy Deer Valley (unless you’re a snowboarder of course) and avoid the crowds. And enjoy it you will. Deer Valley is all about quality of experience at every level and in every aspect of the resort. Smiling staff greet you and carry your skis for you as you arrive, and they’ll happily provide any help or advice you need. Lift queues are rare, as are lunchtime queues for the restaurants, which, by the way, serve spectacularly good food from the most basic food bar item to full gourmet lunches. The pistes are
PARK CITY'S OTHER SKI AREA
perfectly groomed, the lifts well-spaced on the mountain and everyone is friendly and happy to talk. There are ski runs perfectly suited to all abilities, even one called Trump, although I was told that even though the biggest vote in Utah was for the new president, this particular Trump was the name of an old mining claim. When I first visited, as a younger man a few decades ago, I found this niceness all a bit annoying. The man who kept opening the door I needed to walk through wound me up. “Let me open my own door!” I thought, and I’m sure if I’d said that the answer would have been, “No problem, sir!” but he’d still have resisted the temptation to let it slam in my face. Now as an older man, I just like having the door opened for me. I did ski Park City Mountain during my stay, but I enjoyed Deer Valley more. I just wish the IOC would give Alain his medal back.
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
DEERVALLEY.COM
RESORT INSIDER
PAS DE LA CASA The border town of Pas de la Casa is found at one end of the Grandvalira ski area, the largest skiable domain in the Pyrenees, offering 210km of linked slopes suitable for all abilities. Known as a party resort as well as having excellent shopping opportunities with low tax, the town locally known as “Pas” is just a two-hour drive from Toulouse–Blagnac Airport and easily accessible from Barcelona too. By Patrick Thorne Favourite ski run:
DARE TO BEAT
Top tip for maximising ski holiday enjoyment:
Favourite local shop:
Technically not in the Pas de la Casa sector but taking you from the top of Pas de la Casa down
If one of the reasons you are coming to Pas is
it is still duty free and has low sales tax
into Grau Roig, the red slope Pala Nova has to
to party, don’t burn yourself out on your first
at just 4.5%, so plenty of bargains to be
be my favourite here. It’s wide, quite steep in
night! With loads of bars all offering great drinks
had. The choice of shops is enormous with
places and with some awesome lips to drop off,
promotions, the temptation is there to hit it hard,
most offering a range of electrical goods,
plus on the way past the Igloo hotel it flattens
but that means you might lose out on hitting
sportswear, perfumes and tobacco products;
out a little, so you know you can pick up plenty
the slopes on your first morning. With 210km
however, head to Pyrénées department store
of speed with a nice run-off.
to explore you’re going to need all the hours
for 6,000m2 of shopping delights where you
possible up the mountain to get the most out of
can immerse yourself in bargains.
Unusual après activity:
Andorra is renowned for its shopping as
your stay.
Favourite on-slopes bar:
For a unique experience, spend the night at the Igloo hotel. Start your evening with
Favourite restaurant:
Personally, the Vodka Bar is a must for a trip to
a glass of cava and a ride UP a red run in a
My favourite restaurant is KSB in the centre
Grandvalira, just over the mountain in the Grau
piste-basher before watching the sunset and
of town. They have a large open grill with an
Roig sector. The bar is beautifully decorated
enjoying a delicious dinner served inside the
excellent choice of meats cooked to order whilst
with traditional wood and gorgeous leather
igloo. After dinner you get the chance to relax
you enjoy the superb views from the picture
chairs with a superb cocktail menu, wines and
in a Jacuzzi before snuggling up in a cosy
windows overlooking the slopes. It’s friendly
of course vodka! You can also enjoy tapas and/
sleeping bag. This experience is topped off by
service and a cosy atmosphere, which works
or dinner here either during the day or after the
getting first tracks back down off the mountain
great once the music is turned up after dinner for
slopes have closed in the evening. You’ll find it
for breakfast.
an electronic dance party!
next to the Montmalús chairlift.
HELMET COLLECTION 028 // FEB17
@INTHESNOWMAG
Sponsors of Boot Room
Sponsors of Boot Room
ROSS WOODHALL
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ARC’TERYX ASTRYL JACKET Try this on and you will instantly
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SIDAS FULL THERMO S-PRO 100 SKI BOOT Sidas have collaborated with some of the best-selling ski boot brands on the market, to produce their own boot with added customisable performance twists – options of lightweight heat-mouldable liners or full foam-injected versions, and integrated booster power strap for more rebound – all available as standard features. From £399 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
BLACK CROWS OXUS SKI POLE Strong, light and super-techy, these poles will last you for years. Their long foam grip is warmer, more comfortable and efficient
BLIZZARD COCHISE SKIS Do you like skiing high-speed long turns on piste, quickly change to short ones, then charge off-piste but be able to throw the skis sideways to reduce speed and move around obstacles? Response, edge grip, manoeuvrability, power! With its unique Flip Core construction and new shape, the Cochise now allows you to have a ski quiver of one! £509 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
during your touring missions. With their eye-catching good looks and entertaining slogans
UVEX VISOR HELMET Combining two of the most important elements in one. There’s no need to wear a pair of goggles with this integrated visor helmet. If you wear optical glasses you’ll have no need for uncomfortable over-the-glasses
like “don’t swallow”, they will
ATOMIC CLOUD 9 SKIS INCLUDING BINDINGS
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Atomic’s biggest-selling ski for a reason – an elegant, classic-looking ski that does
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030 // FEB17
@INTHESNOWMAG
K2 PINNACLE 88 SKIS
FULL TILT DESCENDENT 8 SKI BOOT
The all-mountain little brother of the award-
DIDRIKSONS KIDS’ ZIP-TOGETHER IZUSA JACKET AND AIANA PANT
Now your wide foot can also have the
winning Pinnacle 95. Why should fat skis have all the fun? An 88mm-wide ski gives you a very user-friendly, go-everywhere, all-mountain feel. A great ski if you want to progress in the off-piste terrain and still have fun on the piste, and a great
same award-winning tech and innovative
A warm waterproof multi-use jacket and trouser
design as its narrower counterparts. Still
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with the same three-piece shell and
trousers zips to the jacket’s snow skirt making
smooth flex. A great boot for anyone
a one-piece suit to stop the weather getting in.
that wants to play on- and off-piste, in
Warm and waterproof, your kids can wear these
the park or just wants a boot
improvers’ ski that will grow as you do.
separately or together whether they’re skiing or
that is fluid and friendly.
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playing in puddles!
£300 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
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NORRØNA MEN’S TAMOK GORE-TEX JACKET You ride hard in all-weather conditions; you want a jacket that functions when you’re backcountry touring and you also want standout good looks. This is a durable, waterproof, breathable and militaryinspired shell jacket made for freeride and freestyle riding in the backcountry. Technical good looks. £499 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
FISCHER CURV TI
DYNASTAR SPEEDZONE 10 TI
A really grippy, turny piste ski for a lover of short- to medium-long turns. Quick from edge to
Unbelievably smooth into the start of
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skiing a user-friendly race ski that will give you
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a huge smile, and you will happily be able to ski
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£479 INCL BINDING
PLANKS MEN’S FEEL GOOD 2 LAYER JACKET Military-inspired tailoring, simple classic looks and subtle branding means the Feel Good jacket will do exactly that – make you feel good and look good on the slopes and back home at a very reasonable price. £179.95 | SKIBARTLETT.COM
SKIBARTLETT.COM
ODLO WARM KIDS’ THERMAL SET Look good and stay warm – the brushed fleece backing inside will keep your kids warm in the coldest of temperatures, and the cool mountain-print design adds some style to the proceedings. These are the kind of classic-looking thermals you can use any day of the year, for all activities, and your little ones will love the cosy, warm feeling when they do.
MORE AT SKIBARTLETT.COM With their renowned reputation for specialist expert advice, combined with their
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carefully selected and tested range of products, it’s no surprise that Ski Bartlett’s word-of-mouth reputation over the last 50 years has made them 031 // FEB17
the UK’s most popular independent ski shop!
ANON M3 MFI GOGGLES
BURTON MALAVITA BINDING
A cylindrical lens goggle with all the magnet
Perfect for the freestyle rider who wants to
technology you could ever want. The Magna-
push it to the next level in the park. The Heel
Tech allows you to change your lenses in only
Hammock and Ankle Hammockstrap give a full
a second by using magnets to hold the lens in
wrap around your boot for optimum response
place, and there are also magnets either side
to ensure there is no wasted energy. A super-
of the nose piece to hold the face mask up so
responsive binding without having to go for
there is no chance of the cold getting in.
something too stiff.
£194.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
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BURTON SCRIBE WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD BINDING The Burton Scribe women’s snowboard binding is the go-to binding for all-terrain fun. A soft, flexible binding which is perfect for that beginner or intermediate rider who likes to hit the park and have fun all over the mountain, whatever it is, the Scribe will tick all the boxes for that fun and comfortable ride. £159.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
JONES HOVERCRAFT SNOWBOARD
JONES ULTRA MOUNTAIN TWIN SNOWBOARD
This board can handle blower, crud or crust one
ADIDAS ADI-TREK CAPITA SHOE
and the same. The edges of the spoon nose are
The Ultra Mountain Twin features Jones’ Ultra
bevelled up for improved float and turn fluidity while
Construction, giving this snowboard a huge
the tail edges are bevelled up for less catch. In
performance upgrade over the standard Mountain
between the raised tail edges, the base is concave
Twin. It benefits from the full upgrade package and
like a channel on a surfboard for improved glide.
can ride everything you throw at it. A lightning-fast
Because the stubby Hovercraft packs so much float
sintered 9900 base, which is one of the fastest bases
in such a small package, it’s designed to be sized
you can get. This combined with magnetraction for
6–8cm shorter than your average powder board.
grip in all conditions and a triple-density full wood core make this board super durable.
The Adi-Trek shoe is a winterised shoe based £399.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
on one of Adidas’s most popular shoes. It has
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a fleece lining for added warmth and a waterresistant upper to keep the snow out. No longer
BURTON GROM BOA JUNIOR SNOWBOARD BOOT
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BURTON DARK SIDE SITH LORD SNOWBOARD
This boot is so easy to get on and off that the little ones will be doing it without your help in no time
Welcome to the Dark Side! The one board to
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MORE AT SPUTNIKSNOW BOARDSHOP.COM Sputnik is one of the UK’s largest independent snowboard shops. We offer great choice and service to all our customers. Whether you are beginner or expert, we can kit you out to ensure you have a great day on the mountains. 032 // FEB17
@INTHESNOWMAG
GETTING YOUR SOCKS RIGHT!
ANON AERA WOMEN’S HELMET
PICKING THE RIGHT PAIR
The Anon Aera helmet for women has a classic brimmed design and removable ear pads. It has an Endura shell construction making it very durable and ding resistant. The active ventilation system gives airflow through the helmet to ensure you are never too hot or cold. £74.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
686 AUTHENTIC RUMOUR WOMEN’S INSULATED JACKET
Thick socks are not necessarily more comfortable than thin socks – ski socks come in various
This jacket has a heavy insulation in the body
thicknesses, but need to be appropriate for the ski
and slightly lower in the arms making it very
boots you are using. If you own your own ski boots,
warm whilst still keeping freedom of movement.
custom-fitted to your foot shape, you should always
The underarm vents allow you to adjust your
use a thinner sock to give you a closer connection
temperature, and the whole jacket has a very
between you and the boot – your skiing will improve
flattering fit.
from feeling what’s happening while you ski and not just feeling lots of sock! Conversely, if you are using
£149.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
rental boots, use a sock with thicker, strategically placed padding to help make the rental boots more comfortable, preventing rubbing and blistering.
686 AUTHENTIC WOODLAND JACKET
Thick socks are not necessarily warmer than thin socks – if your ski socks are too thick, your ski boots
The Authentic Woodland insulated jacket
will be too tight and start to reduce the blood flow and
brings you a thick thermal lining for extra
circulation around your foot, making it uncomfortable.
warmth while being completely waterproof. A
With no space for air to circulate around your foot it will get cold. If you suffer from cold feet, a percentage of
removable hood allows you to cool down a little
merino wool in the sock will also help keep your feet
when it’s not so cold, but with the handy jacket-
even warmer.
to-pant interface, no snow or wind is getting in.
One sock, not two – don’t wear two pairs of socks. It
£179.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
ANON WM1 MFI GOGGLES
will not be warmer, your boots will not fit as well and you’ll often get rubbing, as the socks will not be as close-fitting around your foot.
A womens-specific spherical-lens goggle
Technical socks are better than tube socks – a
with patented Magna-Tech quick-lens-
technical ski sock is closer-fitting around your foot, has
change technology. With 14 rare earth
strategically placed padding and is anatomically shaped
magnets at seven points of connection your
for your left and right feet, giving you a much more
chosen lens will snap into place, thanks to
comfortable fit inside the boots. The thicker padding is
the super-sturdy magnets.
strategically placed around your foot and shin to protect against pressure and rubbing. Basic tube socks don’t
BURTON STARSTRUCK BOA WOMEN’S SNOWBOARD BOOT
SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM £184.95
ruck up and cause problems in your ski boots. For even more comfort and a better fit inside the boots, compression socks are also now available. These are very close-fitting socks made of materials that add
A great boot for someone who likes a soft and forgiving but supportive boot. This boot is ready to go straight out of the box; no need to break these babies in! The boot’s Boa system makes tightening the boot to your preference easy and stress-free. Ideally
fit snugly, have no shin or ankle padding and will often
compression around your foot and leg. Not only does it give you an unbeatable fit inside the boot, but it also
ANON RODAN HELMET
helps stop lactic acid build-up in your legs, meaning you can ski harder for longer. There are also specialist socks available designed with specific padding for
The Anon Rodan helmet is a sleek low-profile helmet made
suited to a beginner to intermediate rider.
with polycarbonate shell with an EPS liner for a good fit and
£174.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
size tweaks for an all-day comfort and feel, and the ear pads
alpine skiing, snowboarding and ski touring.
feel. The Rodan comes with a Boa system so you can make
Wear fresh socks every day – whether that means washing them out overnight or taking multiple pairs.
can be removed if you prefer to wear a beanie underneath.
When you’ve found a sock that works well with your ski boots, make sure you buy multiple pairs of the
£104.95 | SPUTNIKSNOWBOARDSHOP.COM
same sock, otherwise one day your boots will fit and one day they will not! There’s nothing better than having warm, comfortable
FB.COM/INTHESNOW
033 // FEB17
and therefore happy feet all day long.
TUITION ALTITUDE-VERBIER.COM | ALTITUDE-FUTURES.COM | FREERIDE-VERBIER.COM
BUMPS
UPPER VS LOWER BODY
USING YOUR POLES
MOVEMENT & SPEED
TALL AND STRONG
Skiing bumps or moguls can
It’s key to be able to rotate your legs
Bumps are one of the main areas in
Turning your leg quickly from the hip
Remaining tall in the upper body will
be great fun but is also often
while keeping the upper body quiet
skiing where having a solid pole plant
will help you to control the speed of
enable you to keep good balance
Jon holds the top qualifications from
physically demanding.
and still. Having good separation
is vital and will really pay dividends.
your descent through the moguls.
and increase the range of movement
France, Switzerland and Britain,
This month Jon talks us through
between the upper and lower body
Every time you plant your pole you
You will find this easier with a flat
mentioned above. Think about
and we can say firsthand that he is
four key points to remember
in the bumps will leave you like a
will benefit from an extra point of
ski to start with. If using too much
having a small amount of tension in
a great ski instructor! Jon heads up
when skiing bumps, whether it is
coiled spring at the end of the turn
balance and stability, which will also
edge, the ski will grip and accelerate,
your abdominal muscles. This will
the team at Altitude Ski School –
your first time into the moguls or
ready to turn the legs quickly for the
encourage you to get forwards and
leaving the skier in the wrong
ensure your core stays strong and
Verbier’s most established British ski
you are shredding the zip line!
next bump. This will help you get
help you maintain a rhythm.
position and out of balance.
that when you hit the bump you do
school. Each month Jon or one of
those “quick feet” that you often
The position of the pole plant is also
When going from the piste to
not collapse and break at the waist.
his team will provide us with a few
hear talked about in the bumps!
key: try to pole plant over the back
the bumps, one of the biggest
You can think about this position
tips and words of wisdom to help
A quiet upper body will also
of the bump (make sure your poles
changes to your skiing is your
and activating your core muscles
improve our understanding of skiing.
help with your balance, which is
are not too long) – this will allow you
range of movement in the legs. A
throughout your day when doing
constantly tested in the bumps. It will
to have a better flow down the field
full extension in the trough and full
everyday tasks such as driving,
also help you to look ahead and plan
of bumps, as the upper body is less
flexion at the top of the bump is vital
working in front of your PC or
your route down the bumps field.
likely to be pushed back.
to absorb the bump and maintain ski-
vacuum cleaning.
TIP: Try to look a couple of moguls
TIP: When planting your pole,
ahead, and don’t look at the turn
make sure it doesn’t get left
you are on or you will be too late for the next one.
to-snow contact for a smooth ride.
ALTITUDE The Altitude winter company portfolio
TIP: Think about carrying a tray of
includes the ski and snowboard
TIP: The range of movement needs
drinks down the bumps. If you can get
school, the Futures instructor training
behind, otherwise that will put
to be appropriate for the size of
to the bottom with out spilling a drop,
programmes and FREERIDE VERBIER,
you in the back seat. Try to drive
the bumps, and you will need to
get to the bar and buy yourself one!!
a new school dedicated to off-piste
the hand forward as you plant it.
have good flexibility to manage the big bumps.
coaching in Verbier. Enjoy! And remember to warm up properly before every session.
034 // FEB17
JON (AKA WESTY)
info@altitude-verbier.com +41(0)27 771 6006
S K I
F O R
Do You Own Your Own Skis?
PAUL KEPPEL PHOTOGRAPHY
KIDS F U N PA R K The fun park or terrain park is a great place for children and adults alike to have fun and learn new skills, and the kids absolutely love it! The key here is to build up the right knowledge to stay safe and reduce risk of injury whilst having lots of fun!
SAFETY If you are a beginner, it’s best to stick to the beginner area in the park. This may seem like common sense, but it is easy to get carried away. Always read and obey the notices about the rules and safety tips that should be clearly posted at the entrance to the park. When doing any types of jumps or tricks it’s important to wear the appropriate safety equipment, which may include body armor (padding) and at the very least a helmet.
LEARN THE SAFE STOPPING ZONES Everyone has to stop at the top of the terrain park and wait until it’s their turn. As you continue riding through the park you should not stop before or after any of the jumps or features. If you do need to stop for any reason then make sure you are far away from the line of other riders using the jumps.
LEARN HAND SIGNALS It’s useful to know the hand signals to enable you to communicate with other riders above you in the park. Arms crossed over your head if a skier is down. Arms in a circle if it is safe to proceed. For small children it is always
Can you ski everything you want to? Skis are now much more versatile & user friendly helping you ski with less effort in lots more varied snow conditions. Choose the correct ski for your ability level & preferred terrrain & you will feel huge changes in their ease of use, your progression and your enjoyment. Recent technology and innovation means ski equipment is better than it’s ever been before... isn’t it time you upgraded your equipment and made the most of your experience in the mountains? Before you invest in your next trip... come and visit us today to ensure you have the correct advice from experienced equipment specialists. Bringing you the UK’s largest specialist range of skis & boots and advice and expertise since 1965. We’ll always be here to help and advise you on the correct equipment for wherever your passions and dreams take you. Custom Boot Fitting Specialists Ski Industries of Great Britain Official Ski Testers Winner of the World Snow Awards - Best UK Specialist Retailer
recommended to stay with them in the terrain park. This way you can signal to other riders if your child falls over.
NEXT STEPS Stick to straight airs to begin with, but once these are mastered you can start to progress to 180s, 360s and eventually on up to rodeo 7s and switch double corked 10s! There are also many other features in the park once your skills progress, such as rails, boxes, wall rides, halfpipes, step-ups, gap jumps etc. Have fun and stay safe!
ALTITUDE-VERBIER.COM
FREERIDE | FREESTYLE | TOURING | TELEMARK | RACE | RECREATIONAL Ski Bartlett, Uxbridge Road, Hillingdon, West London, UB10 0NP T: 020 8848 0040 | E: info@skibartlett.com | www.SkiBartlett.com
Download your FREE Ski Buyers Guide: http://bit.ly/ITS-Buyers-Guide
CALL A SKI SPECIALIST 07827811477
_SEPT 15 RESIZE.indd 5
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TAILOR-MADE SKI HOLIDAYS TO THE USA & CANADA
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ASPEN VAIL TELLURIDE WHISTLER PARK CITY JACKSON HOLE LAKE TAHOE HOTELS, APARTMENTS & PRIVATE CHALETS, AIRPORT TRANSFERS, 24 HR SUPPORT, GROUP, CORPORATE & GUIDING SERVICES
OWN YOUR OWN HOME IN ONE OF THE WORLD’S BIGGEST SKI AREAS
info@codatravel.com
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22/09/2015 21:15
A
world-famous resorts like Avoriaz,
on the next level down. So there’s all
the other attractions in the area
Châtel, Morzine, Champéry and Les
you need for your holiday, to use as
beyond skiing, and indeed outside
Gets, as well as small villages where
a holiday rental or just to move in for
the ski season. In the summer there
you won’t find crowds or queues
good yourself.
are almost limitless possibilities for
and instead quickly begin to feel like
With nearly 300 separate ski runs
hiking, and the Portes du Soleil has
a local, like Morgins. The chalet is 10
and endless off-piste opportunities
developed into a major mountain-
minutes’ walk from the main chairlift
in between, the Portes du Soleil
biking area in recent years. There
in the centre of the village. There is a
has enough skiing to keep you
are also lots of activities on your
shuttle bus in the ski season.
entertained for a whole season, in
doorstep in Morgins and surrounding
Chalet La Siala has three bedrooms,
fact probably a lifetime. After a while,
villages, such as swimming, tennis
rare opportunity has come up to
two with double beds and one
though you may wish to try other
and horse riding, and the Lake of
purchase a fully furnished Swiss ski
with a bunk bed. They all have
areas and basing yourself in Morgins
Geneva is only a short distance away.
chalet, built for the owners in 1985
built-in wardrobes and the front
means it’s a quick and easy day trip
and authorised for purchase by
two bedrooms have double doors
to plenty of other world-class resorts
non-Swiss.
leading on to separate balconies.
nearby. For example, Verbier, Leysin,
Chalet La Siala in the friendly village
There is a bathroom with full-size
Villars and Les Diablerets are all
of Morgins, right on the French
bath, basin and WC and a separate
within an hour’s drive.
CHALET LA SIALA CHF 595,000
border and just 90 minutes from
shower room also with basin and
As well as bars, there are five
Agence Maytain
Geneva Airport, is located in the
WC. Downstairs there’s a dining area
restaurants in the village and two
(M. Alain Bressoud)
incredible Portes du Soleil ski region.
and kitchen, and at the lower level a
supermarkets. And within a short
(+41) 024 477 2421
This is one of the world’s three
sitting area with a fireplace, hall and
drive into France are the bars
info@maytain.ch
largest ski areas with some 600km
a large built-in cupboards. There is
and restaurants of Châtel and La
aldwinckle@waitrose.com.
of ski runs for all ability levels. The
a sunny garden with views of the
Chapelle d’Abondance.
maytain.ch
hundreds of ski runs and lifts interlink
mountains and a separate garage
It’s also worth thinking about all
MT. BACHELOR OPENS 635 ACRES OF NEW TERRAIN Mt Bachelor ski area in Oregon has unveiling its new Cloudchaser lift, a $6.5 million highspeed quad chairlift which accesses 635 acres of newly lift-served terrain which includes 13 new runs and makes it the 5th largest ski area in the US. Resort staff say it’s the biggest expansion of the ski area for two decades. Cloudchaser is Mt. Bachelor’s eighth high-speed detachable quad chairlift.
036 // FEB17
@INTHESNOWMAG
US RESORT SAYS JANUARY 2017 WAS SNOWIEST EVER Meanwhile, Keystone Resort in Colorado has announced it will extend its main season to Easter
T H E VA L D ’ I S E R E AC C O M M O DAT I O N S P E C I A L I S T
Sunday, 16 April, after its snowiest winter season in more than 10 years. After only 20 days, Mammoth Mountain has announced that January 2017 has become its snowiest January after more than 4.5m of snow fell by the 21st. It broke its all-time monthly snowfall record of 5.3m in December 2010 only two days later on the 23rd. Mammoth was established by the legendary Dave McCoy 77 years
The Widest Selection Of Val D’isere Accommodation Anywhere Over 150 Chalet Holidays Over 300 Self Catered Apartments 30 Hotels Fully Bonded | Very Experienced | Here To Help
ago (he is still going strong aged 101, although he sold the resort in 2005). Mammoth Mountain in California has
December 2010. With a base of more
It entered February with a 760cm
extended spring and summer opening
had its snowiest month ever with
than 7m, it says it already knows it will
base, by far the deepest in the world.
as a result of the large amount of snow
more than 6.3m of snow in January,
open for skiing on 4 July 2017 and
It’s rare for any ski resort in the world
that has already fallen in Western
more than 1m past the previous all-
is offering free skiing on that day to
to reach a 7m base, and when they
North America.
time monthly snowfall record set in
anyone who buys a lift pass in January.
do, it’s usually not until spring.
CNW GROUP
Two US resorts have announced
WHISTLER BLACKCOMB GETS A SKI-THROUGH ATM
NEW INDOOR TERRAIN PARK COMING TO MEXICO
After ski-through Starbucks, McDonald’s and even toilets, Whistler
Woodward, the company behind the world’s original indoor freestyle
Blackcomb has unveiled what they believe is the world’s first “ski-through”
sports complexes, has announced its first centre outside the USA will
ATM. The new ATM was erected overnight in partnership with CIBC Bank
open in 2017, as part of a Hard Rock beach resort in Mexico.
outside the Roundhouse Lodge on Whistler Mountain. The structure
Woodward was originally established in Pennsylvania in 1970 as
stands 2.6m high and weighs 2,121kg, and is located 1,850m up.
an outward-bound centre but then opened its first indoor freestyle
The full-service ATM has certain unique skier features including a glove
snowsports facility at Copper in Colorado in 2008 and has since
holder and a place to prop up your ski poles while you type in your PIN.
opened two more centres, both in California.
CIBC has signed a five-year partnership deal with Whistler Blackcomb
Due to open in October 2017, Woodward Riviera Maya will offer the
and is also offering whistles, tissues and hand warmers as part of
chance to snowboard and snow ski in Mexico within the new Hard Rock
Whistler Blackcomb’s free mountain orientation tours. Visitors will also
Hotel Riviera Maya.
experience CIBC-sponsored events on the upcoming CIBC National Ski
The 1,858m2 complex will be a “shrine to lifestyle sports” the operators
Day, Family Day and Canada Day to help celebrate Canada and CIBC’s
say and will also feature a skate and BMX park, a parkour, cheer and
shared 150th birthday in 2017.
hip hop dance programmes and amenities, a trampoline, a Digital Media
“CIBC is always looking to improve our clients’ experience, and our
Camp and more.
new ski-through ATM at Whistler Blackcomb is just one of the many
Mexico has one long-established artificial-surface outdoor ski slope
ways we’re reaching clients at new heights,” said Stephen Forbes, Chief
centre at Monterreal (monterreal.com), which uses the Dendix surface.
Commercial Officer, CIBC.
hrhrivieramaya.com/woodward.htm
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037 // FEB17
UK: 0345 021 0222 OVERSEAS: +33 (0)634409097 simplyvaldisere.com
I
N
U
T
E
S
M A T T H I A S MAYER INTERVIEW BY: PATRICK THORNE
Matthias Mayer is a World Cup alpine ski
curves and long rolls. That’s for me the
racer who shot to fame at the 2014 Winter
main difference.
Olympics in Sochi when he won the blue ribbon Men’s Downhill race, then aged 23,
Please can you tell us a little about
having never won a World Cup Downhill
D-air® technology, the airbag jacket that
race before. Mayer’s achievement went
downhill racers can now wear, and how it
one better than his father Helmut, who had
works for you and other skiers?
been the silver medallist in the first Olympic
MM: The D-air® is a nearly perfect product
Super-G (Mayer’s main discipline) in Calgary
for me. We’ve worked very hard for it and
in 1988. Mayer is from the province of
there are always little developments to do,
Carinthia and grew up in a village close to
but it means we can be fast using it and
the hometown of Franz Klammer.
we can be safe using it. That’s the most important thing. I’ve been skiing with the
You come from a village down in the
D-air® airbag now for two years, and of
southeast of Austria near to Italy and
course it makes me faster because I feel
Slovenia. Is there rivalry between skiers
more safe and it makes me more confident.
from your area and those from areas like Salzburg and Tirol in the Austrian team?
Should more Brits come to ski in Carinthia?
MM: Of course, when you’re young there’s
MM: We have many beautiful ski areas and
a little bit of rivalry; when you’re 15 you are
we have lots of skiers, but more visitors
fighting on the slopes with skiers from the
would be nice, yes.
Tirol and Salzburg, but when you are in the World Cup it doesn’t matter where you are
You come from a famous skiing family; is
from – you just have to ski fast.
that a help or a hindrance? MM: Well, sometimes it’s a help, yes, but
The Olympics in South Korea is coming
sometimes it’s a challenge too. I have to
up fast. Have you had a chance to race
follow in the big footsteps of my father, so
on the downhill course there yet? Do you
it can be difficult sometimes.
expect it to be very different to Sochi? MM: No, I’ve not had a chance to ski the
Do you have any advice for young racers
2018 Olympic Downhill course yet as I was
hoping to become world famous like you?
injured last year, so sadly I had to watch
MM: I think the most important thing for
the race in front of the TV. It seems to be
young ski racers is to never give up. After
a very different course: Sochi was very
one race there’s always the next race
technical and steep, with big jumps, but
coming, so even if one goes badly, there’s
in Korea it seems to be smoother with big
always another race.
038 // FEB17
EXPA/ JFK
M
CARLTON HOTEL ST MORITZ
HOTEL PLEIN SUD SERRE CHEVALIER
Located on a sun-soaked plateau above the lake of St Moritz, the hotel boasts captivating views from all of its 60 suites and junior suites. A complete refurbishment now showcases the historical values of the property, built a century ago, with a contemporary re-interpretation. The hotel exhibits the signature unconventional style of interior designer Carlo Rampazzi and a colour palette affording the hotel an unrivalled self-assured luxury.
Located in the heart of Serre Chevalier the hotel Plein Sud is situated only 200m to the slopes, lifts & village centre making it easy. Serre Chevalier offers over 250km of pistes with a varied amount of skiing and a fantastic tree line. Super fast lifts with panoramic views to get you to the heart of the ski area
+41 (0) 81 836 7000 // INFO@CARLTON-STMORITZ.CH CARLTON-STMORITZ.CH
+33 (0) 492 24 17 01 // LYNNE@HOTELPLEINSUD.COM HOTELPLEINSUD.COM
HOTEL COURCHEVEL OLYMPIC COURCHEVEL 1850
RESIDENCE LES TERRASSES DE VERET FLAINE
BELLE EPOQUE HOTEL VICTORIA BERNER OBERLAND
At the heart of Courchevel 1850, just a stone’s throw away from the pistes, this is the perfect base for an unforgettable ski holiday. The recently renovated 28 room hotel offers a relaxing lounge-bar to enjoy a drink by the open fire or shoot some pool. All rooms offer large windows making for a light and airy atmosphere and the new chic boutique-style superior bedrooms offer unparalleled levels of comfort, a spacious balcony and extras including coffee machines, iPod docks and light-up showers.
The Terrasses de Veret residence is a mere 50m from the pistes, is centrally located and boasts a large heated pool, outdoor jacuzzi and sauna. All apartments enjoy balconies with views of the pistes or the valley and interiors offering modern elegance. New for 2016 includes WIFI access in every apartment, luggage storage, games room with table football, and a new-look ski and storage area.
Kandersteg is an ideal family ski resort and cross-country paradise. The idyllic and cosy village is in the heart of the Bernese Oberland and can easily be reached by train or by car. The Hotel Victoria is centrally located and offers a beautiful view of the snow-capped mountains. You will find a cheerful and familiar atmosphere combined with Swiss hotel tradition. The ideal place to relax and enjoy oneself.
0203 475 4756 MADAMEVACANCES.CO.UK
0203 475 4756 MADAMEVACANCES.CO.UK
+41 33 675 8000 | INFO@HOTEL-VICTORIA.CH HOTEL-VICTORIA.CH
RESIDENCE & SPA VALLORCINE CHAMONIX
L’ AIGLE DES NEIGE VAL D’ISÈRE
Nestled in the charming village of Vallorcine, in the Chamonix MontBlanc valley, Vallorcine Mont-Blanc offers a relaxing atmosphere. The 5 Residence gives guests a choice of 50 cosy apartments with services. Facilities include an indoor heated pool, two saunas, a spa, a tea-room, a ski shop and a private ice-rink. Less than 10 minutes from your breakfast to the ski slopes!
Located in the very heart of the old village of Val d’Isère, this hotel is among the most fashionable in the region. Perched at 1850m altitude, it is superbly located just a few steps from the snow, meaning you can be on the slopes straight from your front door. The 109 rooms are spacious and comfortable, seamlessly blending wood and natural colours. It has all the equipment and services of an international hotel with a world-class reputation.
4 hotel with spa in central Chamonix, by the Aiguille du Midi lift, offering a new level of comfort including a 500m2 spa (with pool, onsen, hammam, banya, ice cave and tepidarium), restaurant, bar, ski shop, four conference rooms, take-away shop, free wi-fi and a covered car park.
+33 (0)4 5054 7520 // CONTACT@CHAMONIX-VACANCES.COM CHAMONIX-VACANCES.COM
+33 (0)4 79 06 18 88 // RESERVATION@HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM EN.HOTELAIGLEDESNEIGES.COM
+33 (0)4 50 54 55 56 // RESERVATION@HELIOPIC.COM HELIOPIC-HOTEL-SPA.COM
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HÔTEL L’HÉLIOPIC CHAMONIX
039 // FEB17
It’s not just me freeriding.
My skis are too.
Free ski transport.
swiss.com
Made of Switzerland.