4241 Killington Magazine - 2019 by Killington Resort

2019 / 2020

COMPLIMENTARY

Made of Vermont

SUPERIOR LIGHT BEER 2.6 CARBS 95 CALS

Insanely smooth video. ROBIN VAN GYN YETI AMBASSADOR | PROFESSIONAL SNOWBOARDER

FROM FIRST CHAIR TO FINAL RUN.

NAVIGA TING L IFE AT 4241 ’

ver the last two years, we’ve made significant improvements at Killington. From installing new lifts to starting the construction of an entirely new base lodge to building new mountain bike trails and Adventure Center attractions, we’re transforming the way you experience the resort. With these exciting investments and infrastructure enhancements comes lots of work. So please excuse the mess while we continue to make Killington the best. While we do our thing, we still want you to be able to do yours, so I’ve laid out some helpful navigation tips to use for the coming year.

B:11.125” T:10.875” S:10.625”

When you reach the base area, summer or winter, use the new signage to get around. Be cautious and stay alert when navigating the K-1 base area—there will be a blocked-off construction zone.

Let’s start at the beginning.

Check the conditions page before you set out on your next Killington adventure. It may be the most important page we have. Not only does it list our lift and trail operations, but it also includes updates regarding activities and services. Sometimes a lodge has to close early due to a private event or an Adventure Center attraction has scheduled maintenance. We know how frustrating it can be to arrive expecting everything to be open only to find out it’s not. This is why we encourage you to make a habit of looking at the conditions page. We keep it up to date with this important information.

ChandlerBurgess Burgess Chandler

Accessing the K-1 Gondola is a bit different this summer and will be for the foreseeable future, until the new K-1 Lodge is completed. So here’s the lowdown on where to park and how to get there. Until we get closer to the winter season, the only way up to the base of Killington Peak, where the K-1 Gondola is located, is by using Vale Road. Don’t worry, there’s plenty of signage to lead the way. By opening day of winter 2019-20, the normal loop from Killington Road to Vale Road will be accessible again.

As construction progresses, some details on how and where to access the gondola and K-1 Base Lodge could change. Refer to tip #1 and check the conditions page this winter.

No one wants to wait in lines, so try these tips and get on the mountain faster: pre-purchase your tickets online (that means a discount, too!) and head to the ticket center early to pick them up; or skip the ticket center all together and stop by Killington Sports on Route 4 to get your tickets. Start your day at Skyeship or Bear Mountain. This winter, there will be limited parking in the K-1 base area due to construction, making our other base areas a great choice to begin your day when we’re fully open. Whether or not you take my advice, I’m excited to have you here checking out all the new stuff we’re doing. Killington is undeniably the Northeast’s best resort for year-round adventure and we plan to keep it that way for generations to come.

Mike Solimano President & General Manager Killington Resort & Pico Mountain

killington.com killington.com

welcome 5

FROM FIRST CHAIR TO FINAL RUN.

NAVIGA TING L IFE AT 4241 ’

B:11.125” T:10.875” S:10.625”

When you reach the base area, summer or winter, use the new signage to get around. Be cautious and stay alert when navigating the K-1 base area—there will be a blocked-off construction zone.

Let’s start at the beginning.

ChandlerBurgess Burgess Chandler

As construction progresses, some details on how and where to access the gondola and K-1 Base Lodge could change. Refer to tip #1 and check the conditions page this winter.

Mike Solimano President & General Manager Killington Resort & Pico Mountain

killington.com killington.com

welcome 5

Opening Shots

Cold Snap

Color Coordinated

id you know trees can explode without the use of pyrotechnics? During spells of extreme cold or when trees haven’t had time to acclimate to frigid temperatures, the life-sustaining sap inside a tree can begin to freeze, reports the National Forest Foundation. Sap contains water so it expands when frozen, putting pressure on the bark, which can break and create an explosion.

reen chlorophyll dominates summer foliage, but as the days grow shorter and the temperatures cool, chlorophyll degrades and turns from green to colorless, allowing autumn’s color palette to shine through. According to the Farmers’ Almanac, the yellows and oranges are derived from compounds called carotenoids (which are also responsible for the color of carrots). Red pigments, however, are not present in the leaf during summer— trees that turn red produce a pigment called anthocyanin that is believed to protect the leaves from harsh light and ward off pests.

— 4241’

Chandler Burgess

6 H Homegrown

killington.com

Chandler Burgess

Opening Shots

Homegrown H 7

Opening Shots

Cold Snap

Color Coordinated

— 4241’

Chandler Burgess

6 H Homegrown

killington.com

Chandler Burgess

Opening Shots

Homegrown H 7

#simplyvolkl

volkl.com

BAVARIAN TO THE CORE.

NEW DEACON 84 WITH 3D RADIUS SIDECUT Völkl‘s Bavarian engineers have done more to support frontside skiers than any other design team in the industry. The latest proof is the Deacon 84– light weight, lively, and versatile. With Titanal Frame construction, 3D Radius Sidecut, and the new iPT LOWRIDE binding system from Marker, you‘ll be laying down the best arcs ever. See the new Deacons and the rest of the 19/20 lineup at volkl.com.

HIGH TECH MADE WHERE WE LIVE AND SKI: BAVA RI A , G ER M A N Y

#simplyvolkl

volkl.com

BAVARIAN TO THE CORE.

HIGH TECH MADE WHERE WE LIVE AND SKI: BAVA RI A , G ER M A N Y

Open Daily at Noon

Happy Hour: 3:00-6:00

Killington Resort President | Mike Solimano Publisher | Chandler Burgess | Killington Resort Creative Direction |

| butteryagency.com

HIT THE ROAD

NEWS

Contributing Editors

SOUPS•SALADS

BURGERS•PASTA

SEAFOOD•BURRITOS Family Owned & Operated

BEST WINGS

Creative & Classic Soups, Salads, Entrées Sandwiches, Burgers & Kids Menu

Take-Out CRAFT BEER Available WINE AND Sports COCKTAILS in HD Seasonal Dining with a view on our COVERED DECK

Mike’s Letter

Courtney DiFiore Martha Howe Amy Laramie Dave Young Jordan Spear

Killington Resort

Contributing Writers

Contributing Photographers

Adam Broderick Rachel Cohen Tyler Cohen Courtney DiFiore Randy Elles Kirk Kardashian Elicia Mailhiot Drew Pogge Peggy Shinn Dave Young

Chandler Burgess Justin Cash Brooks Curran Randy Elles John Everett Martha Howe Gabe L’Heureux Dave Young

Investments in Fun BIG upgrades on tap MORE Woodward Winter 2019-2020 debut Play Forever Waste not, want not The Castleton College Connection Resort management program blossoms Play in Tune Give your gear some love Bell to Bell A day in the life of an all-day skier

ADVERTISING Sales Team Chandler Burgess Scott Harrison | Killington Resort Jordan Spear Dave Young

Finding Flow Empowering women through mountain biking

FEATURES

40 48 56 05 62 12 70 18 80 20 86 22 102 26 110 30 120 32

CONTENTS

Ad Creative Kim Williamson Jess Curley | Killington Resort

The road to MORE. Photo by Justin Cash

To advertise in Killington 4241’ Magazine, Killington Pico Area Association members call (802) 422 4181. All other inquiries please email 4241magads@killington.com

132

IKONIC Road Trip Powder at nearly every turn

Lounge Lizards Stay. Play. Party. Chill.

Jeff Temple The wizard behind the MTN Ops curtain

Off the Clock Balancing work and play

The Show International field relishes Killington World Cup experience

Pico’s Arborists Into the deep woods

Photo Gallery Mountain Meadows Finding freedom on snow

Profile: Mazie Hayden All-season speedster

Made in Vermont Coffee + CBD

BaseCamp: Barnard All in a day’s tour

COVER Plaid is our favorite color. Photo by Justin Cash

The views expressed in Killington 4241’ Magazine are those of the writers and not necessarily those of the staff or Killington | Pico Ski Resort Partners, LLC. Copyright ©2020 by Killington | Pico Ski Resort Partners, LLC. All rights reserved. The content of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the express consent of the publisher. Killington 4241’ Magazine is printed annually in the USA. Killington Resort 4763 Killington Road | Killington VT | 05751 (800) 621 MTNS | www.killington.com

WEEKEND SHUTTLE SERVICE

422-LOOK • LOOKOUTVT.COM 10 welcome

killington.com killington.com

welcome 11

Open Daily at Noon

Happy Hour: 3:00-6:00

Killington Resort President | Mike Solimano Publisher | Chandler Burgess | Killington Resort Creative Direction |

| butteryagency.com

HIT THE ROAD

NEWS

Contributing Editors

SOUPS•SALADS

BURGERS•PASTA

SEAFOOD•BURRITOS Family Owned & Operated

BEST WINGS

Creative & Classic Soups, Salads, Entrées Sandwiches, Burgers & Kids Menu

Take-Out CRAFT BEER Available WINE AND Sports COCKTAILS in HD Seasonal Dining with a view on our COVERED DECK

Mike’s Letter

Courtney DiFiore Martha Howe Amy Laramie Dave Young Jordan Spear

Killington Resort

Contributing Writers

Contributing Photographers

Adam Broderick Rachel Cohen Tyler Cohen Courtney DiFiore Randy Elles Kirk Kardashian Elicia Mailhiot Drew Pogge Peggy Shinn Dave Young

Chandler Burgess Justin Cash Brooks Curran Randy Elles John Everett Martha Howe Gabe L’Heureux Dave Young

ADVERTISING Sales Team Chandler Burgess Scott Harrison | Killington Resort Jordan Spear Dave Young

Finding Flow Empowering women through mountain biking

FEATURES

40 48 56 05 62 12 70 18 80 20 86 22 102 26 110 30 120 32

CONTENTS

Ad Creative Kim Williamson Jess Curley | Killington Resort

The road to MORE. Photo by Justin Cash

To advertise in Killington 4241’ Magazine, Killington Pico Area Association members call (802) 422 4181. All other inquiries please email 4241magads@killington.com

132

IKONIC Road Trip Powder at nearly every turn

Lounge Lizards Stay. Play. Party. Chill.

Jeff Temple The wizard behind the MTN Ops curtain

Off the Clock Balancing work and play

The Show International field relishes Killington World Cup experience

Pico’s Arborists Into the deep woods

Photo Gallery Mountain Meadows Finding freedom on snow

Profile: Mazie Hayden All-season speedster

Made in Vermont Coffee + CBD

BaseCamp: Barnard All in a day’s tour

COVER Plaid is our favorite color. Photo by Justin Cash

WEEKEND SHUTTLE SERVICE

422-LOOK • LOOKOUTVT.COM 10 welcome

killington.com killington.com

welcome 11

K π News

Workin’It

K π News

Killington

Killington is headed into the 2019-20 season with even more to talk about: more new lifts, greater snowmaking capacity and a brand-new base lodge in the works.

invests

in the ALL-MOUNTAIN experIeNce

by Drew Pogge

photos by Justin Cash

y almost any metric, Killington is King of the East when it comes to skiing and riding, but it’s no cakewalk to stay competitive, even when you’re at the top of your game—just ask Tom Brady, Megan Rapinoe or LeBron James. It takes work to remain competitive, and that’s just what Killington has been doing: working. Following hot on the heels of last season’s $15-million makeover (which included the Woodward Peace Park, the new Snowdon Six Express bubble lift, the return of South Ridge lift service, three tunnels to improve flow at busy trail intersections, new K-1 Express Gondola cabins and RFID ticketing), Killington is headed into the 2019-20 season with even more to talk about: more new lifts, greater snowmaking capacity and a brand-new base lodge in the works. “We’re always working to improve the on-mountain experience,” says Mike Solimano, Killington president and general manager. “To stay competitive, we have to keep investing.” On the first day of the 2019-20 season (which is traditionally the earliest in the East, sometime in mid-October), eager skiers and riders will line up below a brand-new North Ridge lift. “North Ridge was an old but pretty important chair,” Solimano says. “It’s the first opened every year.” The new fixed-grip, four-seat Leitner-Poma lift replaces an aging triple, improving reliability and increasing capacity, solidifying Killington’s commitment to providing the longest season in the East. The upgraded lift in the North Ridge area—servicing runs like Reason, Rime and Upper East Fall—also demonstrates Killington’s commitment to improving access to intermediate terrain. In fact, last season’s continued on p15 D

improvements

killington.com

improvements

K π News

Workin’It

K π News

Killington

Killington is headed into the 2019-20 season with even more to talk about: more new lifts, greater snowmaking capacity and a brand-new base lodge in the works.

invests

in the ALL-MOUNTAIN experIeNce

by Drew Pogge

photos by Justin Cash

improvements

killington.com

improvements

lift and trail improvements made the nearby Snowdon area, which features primarily intermediate terrain, one of the most popular places on the mountain. “I heard a lot of positive feedback,” Solimano says. “The 2018 infrastructure improvements really spread people out and changed the dynamic of how the mountain skis.” In addition to the new North Ridge lift, Killington has installed another 120 new low-energy tower snow guns, replaced air and water piping and added new, semi-automatic water and air hydrants, which reduce the amount of time it takes to start making snow. “To stay competitive, we

continued on p17 D

“The 2018 infrastructure improvements really spread people out and changed the dynamic of how the mountain skis.”

The Perfect Setting for an Exquisite Wedding is Vermont’s Most Beautiful Address. The Woodstock Inn & Resort, one of New England’s most scenic, romantic, and luxurious destinations for a Vermont wedding, is ready to make your celebration perfect in every way. Our experienced staff will assist you with every detail — from room reservations to dinner menus, wedding cakes to rehearsal dinners. Personal Wedding Coordinator Customized Wedding Menus

•

Full Wedding Venue Services

Bridal Packages at The Spa

•

Exquisite Wedding Cakes

Year-round Recreational Activities

•

Exclusive Room Rates

The World’s Best Hotels ~ Travel + Leisure

Woodstock, Vermont | 802.457.6647 | www.woodstockinn.com

improvements

continued on p17 D

“The 2018 infrastructure improvements really spread people out and changed the dynamic of how the mountain skis.”

•

Full Wedding Venue Services

Bridal Packages at The Spa

•

Exquisite Wedding Cakes

Year-round Recreational Activities

•

Exclusive Room Rates

The World’s Best Hotels ~ Travel + Leisure

Woodstock, Vermont | 802.457.6647 | www.woodstockinn.com

improvements

“We’re always working to improve the on-mountain experience.” — Mike Solimano, Killington President & General Manager

have to keep investing in snowmaking,” Solimano says. “These are kind of invisible improvements for most people, but help a lot with snow surface reliability, efficiency and recovery after bad weather.” Killington’s sister mountain, Pico, is also getting an enormous boost in snowmaking capability this season. Long hindered by an unreliable water supply, Pico now draws water directly from Killington via 16,850 feet of pipeline that runs up the interconnect and down into Pico’s ponds. This, combined with a new water pump and nearly 10,000 feet of new and repaired snowmaking pipe, will double Pico’s snowmaking capacity. The result will be more snow earlier in the season, faster recovery after inclement weather and an improved overall on-mountain experience. Finally, workers broke ground in July on phase one of the longawaited new K-1 Base Lodge, which is slated to open for winter 2020-21. “We needed to elevate and compete,” Solimano says. “K-1 is our busiest lodge, and we need more of the experience like that of the popular Peak Lodge.” The building will feature many of the characteristics that make the Peak Lodge such a desirable destina-

killington.com

tion, including an open floor plan featuring mixed seating arrangements, floor-to-ceiling windows, a grand fireplace and an upscale food court set to offer fresh farm-to-table cuisine. When complete, the new three-story lodge will grow from 37,000 to 58,000 sq. ft. and include a full-service bar, upscale fine-china dining and unobstructed 180-degree views. The new lodge will also be sited for easier access. “It will be built downhill of the existing lodge, at grade with the gondola,” Solimano explains, “so it’s less of a hike to the lift.” He says there will also be escalators, “rather than tons of stairs,” accessing the lodge from below. During spring 2020, the existing base lodge will be removed and phase two of the new building will be completed. So what else can skiers and riders look forward to in the coming seasons? If the past several are any indication, you can count on continued investment in the on-mountain experience—along with amenities that are easy to enjoy once you’re off the slopes. One thing is certain: Killington shows no signs of slowing down—they just keep workin’ it. N

improvements

“We’re always working to improve the on-mountain experience.” — Mike Solimano, Killington President & General Manager

killington.com

improvements

K π News

G. L’Heureux

WOODWARD mountain park

coming to killington

More Woodward John Everett

“The ultimate vision for a Woodward Killington experience is year-round.”

“There are a lot of professional athletes who have moved to or periodically lived at some of our Woodward destinations, so they can continuously hone their skills.” — Chris “Gunny” Gunnarson first debuted at Killington in 2018-19. Killington’s Woodward Mountain Park will start with base area learning zones and gradually progress in size and difficulty, culminating in best-in-class terrain parks and elite athlete training zones.

Inspired by the opportunity to leverage Woodward, also part of the profile of POWDR, Killington’s parent company, Chris “Gunny” Gunnarson sees a future where the ski and snowboarding experience is different from what you’ve become accustomed to in the traditional mountain setting. As POWDR’s senior vice president of youth development, Gunny is charged to work with each POWDR mountain resort to help it be the best version of itself by, in part, leveraging Woodward.

Woodward Killington enhances the mountain experience for the widest range of guests, from beginners to pros. “Woodward is for everyone!” Gunny says. “There is a rich history of top-level athletes and performance that has taken place at Woodward properties, and because of the long-standing reputation for innovative environments there are a lot of professional athletes who have literally gone and moved to or periodically lived at some of our Woodward destinations, so they can continuously hone their skills. But we’re not only designing Woodward Killington for pros and hopeful pros—we are creating Woodward Killington to be an ideal place to learn and try something new, from total beginners on up. The Killington team is striving to provide the perfect platform for those just starting off or finding their passion.”

Gunny has been sculpting the snowsports landscape for national events and resorts around the world for more than two decades. As the founder of Snow Park Technologies, he found himself at the forefront of developing event courses and terrain parks for the X Games, the US Open of Snowboarding and Dew Tour, as well as with mountain resorts all around the world. Now he is at the forefront of bringing Woodward’s next-generation-focused experiences to POWDR resorts.

If things go to plan, the fun won’t stop when the ski and ride season ends. “The ultimate vision for a Woodward Killington experience is year-round,” Gunny explains. “At this point, though, Killington’s primary focus is on integrating Woodward on the mountain for winter. The Woodward Mountain Park coming this winter will build on the success of Woodward Peace Park from last season, and introduce new and exciting environments for all ages and abilities to enjoy.”

Coming this season, Killington will unveil Woodward Mountain Park, an on-mountain snow experience with sculpted and featured terrain for every level of skier and rider. Woodward Mountain Park will feature a network of terrain feature zones that will offer a fully balanced variety of on-mountain experiences—from Start Parks to a Peace Park, which

As of press time the intimate details behind Killington’s Woodward Mountain Park were still being fleshed out, but there is a lot to be excited about for this winter and those to follow.

G. L’Heureux

ver the course of the past two years, Killington has introduced Woodward, an experiential action sports company, to its guests and team members through the Woodward WreckTangle, a ninja obstacle challenge, and the Woodward Peace Park, a unique, ever-evolving terrain park. For more than 50 years, Woodward has stoked the most passionate athletes through innovative environments and intuitive programming. Woodward Killington will be unveiled this 2019-20 season.

Woodward!

— 4241’ N killington.com

killington.com

fine tuned

K π News

G. L’Heureux

WOODWARD mountain park

coming to killington

More Woodward John Everett

“The ultimate vision for a Woodward Killington experience is year-round.”

As of press time the intimate details behind Killington’s Woodward Mountain Park were still being fleshed out, but there is a lot to be excited about for this winter and those to follow.

G. L’Heureux

Woodward!

— 4241’ N killington.com

killington.com

fine tuned

K π News

Want Not t times, sustainability is challenging to put into tangible terms. But when it comes to sourcing local ingredients and diverting waste from the landfill, the benefits are measured in pounds.

Because Killington and its parent company POWDR want you to Play Forever—as in help to foster a healthy environment so the next generations can have their own mountain experiences—it’s always looking at ways to reduce negative environmental impacts and increase resource and energy efficiencies. That includes taking a very detailed look at its waste stream, especially in the resort’s food and beverage facilities. Other initiatives like the reduction of single-use products and the advancement of farm-to-table sourcing are adding to the momentum.

Killington Resort Director of Hospitality Scott Harrison says composting is the flagship food and beverage program where they are seeing the most tangible results. “By 2020, our goal is to divert all food products from the landfill,” he says. “Right now we’re composting all the back-of-the-house food waste; the next step is to expand to the front of the house. We’re composting up to 2,000 pounds of food per month through a partnership with Grow Compost of Vermont.”

play 4-ever

SOLAR PANELS and COW POWER continue to offset a portion of the resort’s energy consumption.

“We’re COMPOSTING up to 2,000 pounds of food per month through a partnership with Grow Compost of Vermont.” —Scott Harrison, Killington Resort Director of Hospitality

Being located in Vermont makes bringing ingredients from farm to table a whole lot easier than in most mountain locations. From craft cheesemakers to craft brewers and craft-just-about-everything-else, in Vermont and the Killington region there’s no shortage of suppliers and culinary creativity. According to Harrison, he and his team work with as many as 50 vendors located within 150 miles of Killington, including Vermont Farmstead Cheese, Mission Farm, WhistlePig, Vermont Salumi and many others. Across Killington’s campus, the resort grows some of its own herbs and has apiaries that house more than 200,000 bees, which produce honey for use in Preston’s recipes, as well as being for sale on its own. Solar panels and Cow Power continue to offset a portion of the resort’s energy consumption. THE PLAY FOREVER PHILOSOPHY is being employed more and more, from the “green” features to be integrated into the design of the new K-1 Base Lodge to Play Forever coloring books, holiday ornaments and educational — 4241’ N touch points at the Grand Resort Hotel and beyond. killington.com

N Justin Cash

KILLINGTON is increasingly using washable dinnerware in place of single-use plastics and compostable or recyclable products when dishwashing is not an option. The resort has eliminated plastic straws and plastic souffle cups and replaced many disposable water cups with reusable ones. It’s all part of the larger, ongoing effort to divert Killington’s waste from the landfill. 20

PLAY FOREVER

John Everett

killington wants you to

killington.com

play 4-ever

K π News

Want Not t times, sustainability is challenging to put into tangible terms. But when it comes to sourcing local ingredients and diverting waste from the landfill, the benefits are measured in pounds.

play 4-ever

SOLAR PANELS and COW POWER continue to offset a portion of the resort’s energy consumption.

“We’re COMPOSTING up to 2,000 pounds of food per month through a partnership with Grow Compost of Vermont.” —Scott Harrison, Killington Resort Director of Hospitality

N Justin Cash

PLAY FOREVER

John Everett

killington wants you to

killington.com

play 4-ever

K π News

executing the resort’s signature events—and that’s just getting started. In addition to being paid for their time, students also earn academic credit for their experience.

Higher

Education by Elicia Mailhiot

Castleton University’s bachelor’s degree program in Resort and Hospitality Management combines traditional classroom learning with realworld, on-mountain experience at The Beast of the East. Through a cooperative education model, students have the opportunity to apply concepts they’ve learned while working in a number of paid positions at both Killington and Pico Resorts. The accelerated program, which began its inaugural semester in August 2019, takes just three years to complete.

Castleton University’s School of Resort & Hospitality Management at Killington is filling an important gap in the region following the closure of Green Mountain College, which operated a similar program for nearly 18 years. Castleton’s program will be led by Business and Economics Professor Frank Pauze, who also served as the program director at Green Mountain College. Pauze is a respected leader with an extensive background in management, marketing, sales and food service.

tudents will live in the heart of Vermont’s Green Mountains at the newly renovated Castleton Lodge at Killington. The lodge is located on the Killington Access Road and is nestled among a variety of other businesses—a pizza shop, hotels, a coffeehouse. Adjacent to the Foundry and some of the best entertainment spots on the mountain, the Castleton Lodge at Killington is an extension of the Castleton University campus. In addition to being a full-service residence, the lodge will offer students access to a state-of-the-art conference space, computer lab, dining room and food service and recreation areas. Castleton will also host a number of classrooms and faculty workspace nearby.

Chandler Burgess

magine being a college student and living just minutes from the base of the largest ski resort in the eastern United States, spending your winter days on sun-kissed powder and mountain biking deep under the cool tree cover in the summer. Students with Castleton University’s School of Resort & Hospitality Management at Killington don’t have to imagine—that’s just life at the lodge.

— DR. KAREN M. SCOLFORO, Castleton University President Chandler Burgess

castleton university’s new program in resort & hospitality management brings learning from the classroom to the slopes

“This program provides a unique pathway for students who have always dreamt of working in the resort and hospitality industry.”

“We really can’t say enough about how valuable it is to have hands-on experience. Classroom teaching alone doesn’t prepare students as well as working at a resort,” says Scott Harrison, Killington Resort’s director of hospitality. “With this program, students are getting a great education, getting great hands-on experience and getting to enjoy the lifestyle.”

“We are excited to strengthen our partnership with Killington Resort while also providing our students with a high quality, affordable education in a field they are passionate about,” Scolforo says. Many of the students in Green Mountain College’s program decided to call Killington home after graduation. Thirty-five alumni are currently employed by Killington Resort in roles such as the director of communications, events and special projects and director of marketing, sales and reservations. In fact, 99 percent of graduates have found a job in the resort hospitality industry. Castleton University expects to see the same success.

“This program provides a unique pathway for students who have always dreamt of working in the resort and hospitality industry, but just couldn’t see how going to college would help them get there,” says Castleton President Dr. Karen M. Scolforo. “Students in our program will gain unparalleled experience that will immediately translate into the skills needed to succeed in the resort and hospitality industry.”

“Graduates of the program are our future ski industry leaders. Two graduates have recently been promoted to our executive team,” SCOTT HARRISON said. “These students grow to become very qualified employees who love Killington like we do.”

Castleton’s curriculum—taught by dedicated professors and accomplished veterans of the ski industry (think: Killington’s recently retired Director of Sales, Marketing and Reservations, Rob Megnin)—will provide students with instruction in everything from financial management to event planning. This prepares students to work alongside industry leaders at the four-season resort during the winter and summer trimesters, when they transition from traditional coursework to immersive, hands-on experience in a variety of positions at the mountain. They will work the front desk at the Killington Grand Resort Hotel, operate snowmaking machines and ski lifts and assist event staff in planning and 22

castleton college

Justin Cash

For more information or to apply, visit castleton.edu/killington

killington.com

castleton college

K π News

executing the resort’s signature events—and that’s just getting started. In addition to being paid for their time, students also earn academic credit for their experience.

Higher

Education by Elicia Mailhiot

Chandler Burgess

— DR. KAREN M. SCOLFORO, Castleton University President Chandler Burgess

castleton university’s new program in resort & hospitality management brings learning from the classroom to the slopes

“This program provides a unique pathway for students who have always dreamt of working in the resort and hospitality industry.”

castleton college

Justin Cash

For more information or to apply, visit castleton.edu/killington

killington.com

castleton college

100 00 Club 2018/19

Schirm, Rick Schram, Nickolas Westburg, Rich Westburg, Patti Laurin, Robert Holmes, Paul Barrington, Bob Lange, Tucker A Johnson, Brandon Weiss, Ronald Peone, Matthew Golonka, Peggy Pencak, Benjamin Namkung, Young Lanahan, Charlotte Pencak, Greg Marshall, Barb Mcgrath, Joseph Marchesi, Chris Green, Jonathan Forest, Johnny Bergstrom, Mark Montemurro, Joseph Bloomer, John Padﬁeld, Paul Golonka, Larry Sherman, Merisa Lewis, Charles Munsinger, Lynn Grimm, Jim Tomasi, Michael Robertson, Samantha Marchesi, Nate Celeste-Hahn, Elijah Strong, Piper Dore, Dennis Tener, Kinley Reimer, Joel Fournier, Mark Crowell, Peter Lanka, Maria Marshall, Donald Mulkern, Paul Tirella, Tricia Soderquist, Poopsie Soderquist, Chuteman Hirschbuhl, Wade Heffermehl, Birger Paquette, Mark Plourde, Jim Ruzicka, Robert Carine, Maxwell Lewis, Dave K Haffke, Gary Osnoe, Robert Joseph, Gary Burritt, Colleen Lash, Norman Hinkle, Brennan Tracey, John Labella, Greg Daily, Rick Paret, Richard Aguilar, German Johann, Peter Hilz, Gregory Root, Alan Zuckerman, Jack

Greve, Jonathan Cully, EJ Aguilar, Charity Sardelli, Bob Sharpe, John Meren, Eric Woods, Chuck Castle, Matthew Lee, Gilbert Clark, Peter Tretter, Cole Terjesen, Leif Anthony Skalski, Ted Fallo, Philip Krause, Allan Stangel, Timothy Hirschbuhl, Michael Paroline, Katie DiMascio, Paul Pelletier, John Cahill, Michael Jr. Lennon, Rich Goodwin, Carol Crowell, Philip Reck, Thomas Montag, Christopher Acernese, Chris Everett, John Zazzera, Robert Dalury, Karen Mielcarek, Daniel Hacker, Ron Lee, Jennifer Krinsky, Michael Huntley, William Brunner, Garecht Stamp, Eric Sporbert, Richard Reimer, Susan Myers, Andrew Bergstrom, Cynthia Leabourne, Bradley O'Neill, Steven Kogel, Michael Gold, Lawrence Straus, Larry Holland, Charlie Nielsen, David Johnson, Nicholas Martin, Pamela Bonczar, Cooper Paroline, Jesse Lim, Youn Isaacson, Alan Garrow, Tyler Taylor, Scott Namkung, Sara Hunt, Lynda Herrero, Manuel Guarino, Vito Billings, Steven Durney, Jack Howard, Scott Murphy, Paul Carter, Christopher Stearns, Ashley Aiken, Jane LaChance, Brian

The 100-day club holds a special place in skiing and snowboarding here. It’s the territory of the hardcore, the dedicated few who spend more time in the mountains in one season than most people do in a lifetime. killington.com

Krause, Barbara Lindner, David Stanton, John Schroeder, Derek Hazlett, Mike Bassett, Jesse Schneider, Lawrence Gonda, George Dwyer, Christopher Doheny, Paul Jr. Pluta, Jacob Schaffner, Robert Normand, Aaron Bragg, Donald Bennett, David Kelly, James Chimerane, Gary Hopkins, Keith Hurst, Connor Cummings, Robert Mielcarek, Patti Roldan Mayorga, Jantel Laﬂeur, Jeremy Giordano, Harrison Brooks, Thomas Pencak, Lucas Oakes, Daniel Reck, Donna Krevetski, Sean Parnell, David Grace-Rutledge, Elizabeth McNeill, Donald Wolford, Emily Clement, Olivia Dixon, Dave Stoodley, Lael Digioia, Suzanne Mcalpine, Jeremiah Adams, Jennifer Zara, Harvey Manning, Ted Rogers, Clarke Heck, Joseph Fischer, Karly Krevetski, Wayne Hall, Thomas Youngs, Ryan Levesque-Brant, Nicole Rice, Raymond Chessia, Amy Poppleton, Brad Nimal, Jim Nimal, Jackie Burns, Martin Smith, Tyler Baker, Forrest Svencer, Rick Maichen, Kevin Porubiansky, Matthew Aker, Cliff Schmitt, Judy Guggenberger, Josef Pytka, Ellen-Louise Schmitt, Bob Nelson, David Jr. Courcelle, David Gugliotta, Tyler Palmer, Gary

Nelb, Sharon Hall, John Fieldhouse, Simone Wood, Craig Atkinson, Scott DiMattia, Warren Charles, Jonathan Kovalesky, Rob Potter, Corey Scoville, Edward Stem, Rachel Gordon, Scott Coccia, Anthony Schindler, Mary Dunwoody, Philip Damore, Dylan Curtis, Jon Harris, Jim Tanguay, Blackie Jennings, Michael DeLong, Tracey Nelson, Adam Burke, Deborah Bartlett, Thomas Hackett, Richard Mead, Liz Richard, Christopher Stokey, Roger Klatt, Joshua Werner, Paul Bonomo, Michael Bellefeuille, Michael Barnett, Brent Cone, Kathleen Beaumont, Scott Verachtert, Ingrid Stolar, Paul Mahoney, Michael Giolito, Robert Gotthardt, Robert Jr. Mitchill, Sharon Wysocki, Jon Sullivan, Patrick Bernard, David Blumberg, Barbara Ehmann, William Welch, Colleen Weart, David Wysocki, Jennifer Fillmore, Walter Robb, John Theel, Karen Sardelli, Cameron Feenick, John French, Lee Shaw, Steve Steadman, Webb Phillips, Katelyn Porter, Ken Herbert, Katherine Carey, John Cardozo, Jason Brown, Daniel Sabataso, Chris Poplawski-Wilson, Debra Rubenson, Marc Magliano, Lisa Celauro, Jonathan

O'Connor, John Vannoni, Vincent Petricone, Neil Kotapka, Thomas Burke, Colin Moriarty, Carol Smith, Peter Sardelli, Jessica Camarota, Michael Kruger, William Siart, Lisa Adams, George Regan, Bruce Kilbride, Timothy Witalis, Carole Midgley, Amelia Larson, Karl Jerome, David Eckler, Ann Marie Dederer, Robert Thompson, Christopher Pressey, Bob Wilkins, Steven Sardelli, Phoebe Soriano, Tom Baldino, Leonard Kelly, Bruce Carlton, Brent Perrault, Robert Prendergast, Thomas Mattsson, Sawyer Zmurko, Michael Mckenna, Andrew Dwyer Lamlein, Margaret Feenick, Susan Barrington, Susan Norniella, Corsi Campbell, George Blackwood, Alex Mcgrath, Kyran Dalglish, Kevin Jardim, Oliver Hughes, Chuck Rosenberg, William Riback, Julia Cerri, Steven Carvill, Jean A Jajosky, Edward Vavolotis, Maureen Goldberg, William Rivera, Roger Blencowe, Elizabeth Gross, Bill Delles, J Michael Mackiewicz, Donna Simone, Catherine Keylin, Alex Beregi, William Coleman, Fletcher Beck, Curtis Handlin, Ashley Munoz Martinez, Luis Felipe Scomillio, Michael Howell, Ryan Eckler, Joshua Fennell, Jessica Levins, Heidi Deitch, Sandra

100 00 Club 2018/19

K π News

Fine Tuned by Adam Broderick

why iT’sof important To take care your skis & boards

photos by Justin Cash

here are more reasons for a good tune than simply going fast and carving tight turns.

trick in a pinch. Hot wax, on the other hand, is the way to go nine times out of 10.

Like with most tools, poor maintenance doesn’t just mean bad performance—it can be dangerous. Edges that aren’t polished and finished properly can catch and throw you off balance. If you hit a rock and put a hole in your base, not only could it steer you wrong, but it can fill with moisture and cause corrosion. Unwaxed bases will dry out and won’t glide well, which will affect edge transitions and make the base more vulnerable to future damage.

Scott Watelet, a ski tech at Basin Sports, says their staff, which has a combined 50-plus years of tuning experience, works annually through more than 700 season tunes—skis or boards that undergo weekly maintenance throughout the season. Regardless of how long the to-be-tuned line gets, Watelet says that every piece of equipment receives the attention it deserves.

Waxing and tuning skis and snowboards, on the other hand, helps them glide better, which offers more control and smoother transitions between edges. And skiing and snowboarding aren’t the cheapest sports, so properly tuning equipment is like protecting an investment, and the more often they’re used, the more frequently they need upkeep. Mike Aicher, the Vermont sales representative for Salomon and Swix, began tuning skis in his basement as a high school ski racer and knows how a bad tune can ruin a good day—and that a good tune can make the best day even better. “As a skier or rider,” Aicher explains, “your confidence, performance and control are all dependent on well-maintained equipment. If your edges become dull or your base becomes damaged or dry, you may find that your skis/board becomes unpredictable, hard to control, hard to grip on firm snow or slow when gliding.” Abrasive, man-made snow will scrape wax off a base faster than fluffy powder will, so skis and boards in the Northeast need to be waxed more often than in places like Colorado or Utah. Some skiers will rotate their planks halfway through the day to enjoy more laps with wax underfoot. Rub-on wax doesn’t usually last more than a few laps, but can do the 26

fine tuned

Chandler Burgess

K π News

“As a skier or rider, your confidence, performance and control are all dependent on well-maintained equipment.”

Instead of just roll-waxing something and handing it back to the customer, he believes it’s important to spend time dripping wax on by hand. “Even if we’re there until 2 a.m, it’s worth the extra effort,” he says. “I ski just about every day in the winter, and you’d be surprised how often I run into someone on a chair that is pumped about the job I did.”

o help get the job done, Basin Sports employs a $200,000, fully-automated Wintersteiger Mercury. Watelet says the machine is capable of 150 different base structures, three of which he regularly uses. “Ninety percent of the structures are predicated on race, so I focus on three or four that I like for the Northeast, and for our customers,” he says. “The mistake most shops make is they’ll overgrind a ski with a deep structure, which makes them ski so hooky and grabby and dangerous even. Most people just want something smooth and flat that will hold wax well. I tend to put on a smooth finish that skis great all-around.”

Watelet began tuning in 1987, when the process was done by hand. He says that even with modern machines, there is still a good level of handwork that goes into tuning. When appropriate, he’ll forego the automated tuner altogether: “It’s time consuming, but the customers appreciate it. It goes back to killington.com

killington.com

fine tuned

K π News

Fine Tuned by Adam Broderick

why iT’sof important To take care your skis & boards

photos by Justin Cash

here are more reasons for a good tune than simply going fast and carving tight turns.

trick in a pinch. Hot wax, on the other hand, is the way to go nine times out of 10.

fine tuned

Chandler Burgess

K π News

“As a skier or rider, your confidence, performance and control are all dependent on well-maintained equipment.”

killington.com

fine tuned

the ski culture—skiers servicing skiers and snowboarders servicing snowboarders. Help people have a better time, and they’ll keep our business, and our industry, alive.”

here are many different types of tunes, and preference can be very personal. Racers typically want sharp, aggressive edges, but that same tune would be too catchy for a beginner. An all-terrain rider might want sharp edges but a less aggressive shape that will allow some skidding through turns. Park riders often prefer dull edges that avoid getting hung up on rails and boxes. Regardless of skier type, all edges eventually need burrs buffed and every base ultimately needs waxing. DIY tunes work to an extent, but only affect the edges, so a spe-

“If you can at least set people up on good equipment and have it tuned properly, they’ll have a much better time.”

cialty ski shop is always the best place to service gear. Bill Elles, who opened First Stop Board Barn almost 40 years ago, is committed to top-tier tunes and customer service and says that one of the easiest maintenance methods is simply wiping down your skis or board at the end of the day to avoid rust. “If they’re ice cold, bring them inside, let them warm up, then wipe the moisture off the edges,” says Elles, under whom Watelet first studied tuning. “If the edges look rusty, it’s definitely time to have them tuned. But not just the edges—because then they will become lower than the base—and your transitions between turns will be slower and with less grip.” Elles says he’ll notice people walking through the parking lot with their skis on, jam them in the snow, which can delaminate the tips, or throw them in the back of a car with salt and pine sap on them. A little care goes a long way, and he recommends Simple Green, in most cases, or a citrus cleaner to cut the pine sap. As Elles says, “Some people won’t make an investment in tuning because a good tune might cost $60. They spend all this money on skiing, and skiing itself is difficult enough. If you can at least set people up on good equipment and have it tuned properly, they’ll have a much better time.”

fine tuned

killington.com

the ski culture—skiers servicing skiers and snowboarders servicing snowboarders. Help people have a better time, and they’ll keep our business, and our industry, alive.”

“If you can at least set people up on good equipment and have it tuned properly, they’ll have a much better time.”

fine tuned

killington.com

A ski day in the life

of Tommy Whiting “Skiing and spending time at KILLINGTON is something that makes me thoroughly happy. I really feel like part of the community.”

6:00am | Whiting has a share in a ski house with five or six friends. He sets his alarm for six o’clock, making him the first one up in the morning. He gets up early so he doesn’t feel rushed. “I like to ease into my morning, and if you have a half-dozen people descending on the kitchen at the same time to cook breakfast, it can be a little hectic,” he says. He makes coffee for himself and the rest of his housemates, who are usually rousing themselves by 6:30. For breakfast, Whiting cooks up a bacon-egg-and-cheese on a big English muffin. Sometimes he has enough time to eat it at the house. If not, he’s eating it in the car on the way to the lifts, or it’s in his pocket for the ride up the first chair. 7:40am | At this time of the morning, skiers have their pick of the parking lots. Whiting chooses a spot as close to the Superstar lift as he can get. A few minutes later, he’s rubbing elbows with a Killington cohort waiting for the lift to start spinning. “You see the same old-timers and retirees coming out for their one hour of skiing,” he says. “It’s kind of a cool vibe, and I know I don’t fit into their age bracket, but I try to keep the peace with them. They sometimes give me funny looks if I beat them to the first chair, like, ‘Who’s this young guy over here?’”

TOMMY WHITING is a work-hard, play-hard kind of guy. During the week, he drives a tow truck that rescues tractor-trailers for a company based in Portsmouth, N.H. At the end of the day on Friday, the 35-year-old heads two-and-ahalf hours northwest to Killington, his home mountain since 2011. Whiting’s weekend ritual is pretty simple: ski as much as possible. Over the years, he’s established a plan of attack for making the most of his time on snow. It might not work for everyone, but those who are serious about milking the ski day for all it’s worth would be wise to follow his tracks.

8:07am

by Kirk Kardashian

photos by Justin Cash

15 to 60—he’s noticed a marked improvement in his skiing. “I’ve become a lot more aggressive with my carving and turning, powering into turns more where I used to wash through them,” he says. For the past few years, he’s been on the Nordica Enforcer 93. “I’d keep buying that ski forever,” he notes.

12:00pm

| Whiting carries a few Clif Bars in his pockets to stay energized, but he does need to stop for water. He usually swings into the Mahogany Ridge Bar in the K-1 Base Lodge and downs a few cups on his way over to the Snowdon Six Express. “That lift is so awesome,” he says. “It puts so many people up the hill quickly, and it’s changed the dynamic of Snowdon for the better.” He likes to rip runs right under the chairlift, on Chute and Bunny Buster, and then work his way across the mountain on the gladed trails, skiing Lowrider, Patsy’s, Tin Man and Scarecrow.

1:30pm

| From the top of Snowdon, the easy call is to ski to the North Ridge Quad and descend Rime, Reason and East Fall. Then Whiting goes down to the Canyon Quad and skis Double Dipper, Big Dipper and Cascade. If he’s with a friend and they’re feeling thirsty, they might stop into the Peak Lodge for a quick beer and a snack. He also likes to show Killington newbies the way up to Catwalk and the short walk to the summit. “You feel very seclud“This is why I’m getting up early, to do this ed up there, you get some amazing and ENJOY THIS MOMENT.” views, and Catwalk is a really fun, technical chute,” he says.

| Gliding off the ramp, Whiting follows the sun toward Bear Mountain. He takes Gateway to Great Eastern to Skyeburst. Somewhere in those first few hundred feet of skiing, he looks north and east to the pastel Vermont skyline, to the soft sun on the horizon, and feels himself become immersed in the present. “This is why I’m getting up early, to do this and enjoy this moment,” he says. The rewards are more tangible when he carves the first lines of the day into the steep and fresh corduroy of Skyeburst, sometimes getting heckled by riders on the Skye Peak Express, who haven’t reached the top yet. He laps the Skye Peak Express a couple of times, taking quick and empty runs down Skyeburst, Wildfire and Outer Limits.

3:00pm | At this point in the day, every extra run is a bonus for Whiting. He skis a little more conservatively because his legs are a bit tired and he doesn’t want to get hurt. He goes back to whatever run skied best earlier in the day. If he’s skiing from the peak, he’ll take Great Northern to Highline. And, one more time, he’ll take note of his surroundings and feel a sense of gratitude. “I look around and appreciate how big this place is, and spy the woods runs I skied earlier,” he says.

9:00am | Whiting’s friends are now meeting up with him, and together they head over to Needle’s Eye to ski Panic Button and Cruise Control. Sometimes they race the clock. Can they get 10 runs by 10 a.m.? Or 12 runs?

4:00pm

10:30am

KILLINGTON has become Whiting’s second home. In October, his friends in Portsmouth say, “See you in six months.” “And that’s about right,” Whiting says. “Skiing and spending time at Killington is something that makes me thoroughly happy. I really feel like part of the community.” N

| From Needle’s Eye, Whiting skis back toward Superstar, which is now lit with morning sun, and laps Skyelark, Superstar and Ovation. If he’s by himself, he takes some time to think about his form and his turns. Since renting a ski house—and increasing his ski days per season from

| Whiting hops the last chair at Superstar and enjoys an easy cruise down Skyelark and Bittersweet, right to the Mahogany Ridge Bar, where he meets up with his friends for après-ski drinks and food.

“I look around and appreciate how BIG this place is.”

D 30

bell to bell

killington.com

bell to bell

A ski day in the life

of Tommy Whiting “Skiing and spending time at KILLINGTON is something that makes me thoroughly happy. I really feel like part of the community.”

8:07am

by Kirk Kardashian

photos by Justin Cash

12:00pm

1:30pm

4:00pm

10:30am

| Whiting hops the last chair at Superstar and enjoys an easy cruise down Skyelark and Bittersweet, right to the Mahogany Ridge Bar, where he meets up with his friends for après-ski drinks and food.

“I look around and appreciate how BIG this place is.”

D 30

bell to bell

killington.com

bell to bell

F I N D I N G “So, are there going to be any beginners in this group?”

Divas of Dirt and Gravity Camps offer women more than just skills instruction at the Killington Bike Park

THE QUESTION posed by the woman to my left brings me immediate re-

lief. As I scan the small group of ladies gathering around the Umbrella Bar, I can’t help but notice the diversity among us. Some women appear to be in their 20s and others into their 60s; some are large and others are petite; several have clearly done this before, while others, like me, are getting their knee pads dirty for the first time. One thing is abundantly clear, though—I’m in the right place for the Divas of Dirt women’s ride.

THE SUN DANCES across the top of Killington Peak, bouncing off wet leaves

and transforming each raindrop into a tiny fleck of late-afternoon glitter. Humidity sits heavy, not unlike the purple storm clouds that linger far in the distance. It’s nearly 4 p.m., the time when I’d expect a rush for last chair during winter. But it’s mid-July, and a steady stream of riders push muddy full-suspension bikes toward the lift, eager for a few after-work, pre-happy-hour runs.

, “YEAH, I M PRETTY NEW TO THIS, TOO,” I respond, turning to my neigh-

by Rachel Cohen 32 dirt divas

bor and happy to not be the only first-timer in the crowd. My walk from the parking lot to the Snowshed chairlift had felt clunky at best. Do I need goggles? I’d wondered. Where should I put my wallet and cell phone? Oh my God, all this padding is going to be hot.

photos by Brooks Curran killington.com

killington.com

, RIDING ISN T NEW TO ME—I regularly mountain bike near my home

in northern Vermont and have competed in a handful of long-distance cross-country races over the last few years. But donning a full-face helmet and knee and elbow pads to take a chairlift to the top of the mountain and descend it as fast as possible is a completely different—and intimidating—experience. As I start to measure my lack of bike-park experience with that of the women around me, however, Amy Alton, the founder of Divas of Dirt and our ride leader tonight, chimes in to the small group that’s gathered.

“IF YOU ARE TOTALLY NEW or a beginner, that’s super rad,” she says. “I also see some locals and past Divas in the crowd—what’s up ladies?” As the start time approaches and our group size grows to 10, then 15, then more than 20, Amy assures us that this ride, and the bike park for that matter, is for everyone. “Just relax,” she says. “This is about dancing on your bike, chilling out, dealing with fear and being in community.” As more and more ladies approach, the mood shifts. Our nervous small talk evolves into friendly chatter and easy laughter. Our collective anxieties transform into calm.

D dirt divas 33

F I N D I N G “So, are there going to be any beginners in this group?”

Divas of Dirt and Gravity Camps offer women more than just skills instruction at the Killington Bike Park

THE QUESTION posed by the woman to my left brings me immediate re-

THE SUN DANCES across the top of Killington Peak, bouncing off wet leaves

, “YEAH, I M PRETTY NEW TO THIS, TOO,” I respond, turning to my neigh-

by Rachel Cohen 32 dirt divas

photos by Brooks Curran killington.com

killington.com

, RIDING ISN T NEW TO ME—I regularly mountain bike near my home

D dirt divas 33

was held in July, offering a full weekend of coaching, on-mountain lunch and discounts on lodging and bike rentals. Twenty-five women attended the inaugural camp, hailing from Pennsylvania, New York, New Jersey, Massachusetts, Connecticut, New Hampshire, Montreal and, of course, Vermont.

G “EVERY ONE OF US HAD TO START FROM ZERO,” Ella Skalwold

risk. Instead, they’ve elevated it, making it clear that downhilling is a progressive sport with innate risk—and huge rewards.

, “WE RE NOT HERE FOR COMFORT,” Amy says as she preps us for

the day in our on-mountain classroom. “If you’re here for comfort, sorry, because we’re about to make you very, very uncomfortable. What we want to do here is move from comfort to thrill, and that requires dancing toward fear. We’re always going to have fear—but we’re going to move toward that fear and smile at it.”

says during the Gravity Camp’s Saturday morning welcome session. Even though she’s fresh off a win at the Eastern States Cup Enduro at Burke Mountain, Vt. and placed second in the downhill at last summer’s US Open of Mountain Biking at Killington, Ella radiates sincerity, and her words serve as a comforting reminder that, at one point, each of these accomplished riders was just like me. Then they got hooked, kept at it, fell a lot and literally got back on the bike.

, AMY S HONESTY IS REFRESHING. Being supportive enough to en-

BETWEEN THE FOUR COACHES there is nearly a century of riding experience, but unlike how I felt before last night’s group ride, I now feel completely at ease. These women are approachable and supportive, and they haven’t watered down or tried to hide the sport’s

I LEARN, first and foremost, that the attitude I bring to the sport

gage each participant at her readiness level, while also pushing riders beyond their comfort zones, seems like a difficult and delicate balance to strike. One way the Gravity Camp accomplishes this is through a curriculum grounded in three major areas: mindset, skillset and toolkit.

is my number-one limiting factor—by doubting my abilities and harboring fear about what others might think of me when I mess up, I risk missing the opportunity to move into self-discovery; I risk

I‘m not a minute into my first run when I realize how much I love this style of riding.

, THE EXPLOSION OF WOMEN S MOUNTAIN BIKING at Killington can be

largely credited to Amy Alton, a professional rider in cross-country, enduro and downhill and two-time USA Cycling National Champion. In 2016, along with her husband, Amy relocated from the Washington, D.C. area to Vermont and quickly made it her mission to create an accessible entry point and inclusive atmosphere for women to explore downhill riding. So, in collaboration with the Killington Bike Park, she founded Divas of Dirt, a ride that meets every other Friday evening from June until early October. The group rides are not intended to serve as formal lessons but an opportunity for ladies to try new terrain, meet riders from across New England, receive a few informal pointers and enjoy community over an après-ride happy hour.

AFTER A TUTORIAL on how to load our bikes onto the lift, we ride up and gather at the top of Snowshed, where Bon Jovi’s Living on a Prayer blares from trailside speakers. Our group weaves around hoards of fullface-helmet-wearing kids who can’t possibly be older than 10 and regroups at the top of Easy Street, from where several trails fan out below. If these little kids can send it, I think to myself, so can I. , I M NOT A MINUTE into my first run when I realize how much I love this

style of riding. My long-travel demo bike floats effortlessly over the trail’s intermittent rocks and braided roots, a totally different feeling from any other bike or terrain I’ve ever ridden. I grow comfortable picking up speed, completely absorbed by the task of navigating the trail’s contours until the sound of laughter from the rider behind me brings my attention back to the group. 34 dirt divas

I SLOW TO A STOP at the intersection ahead, where women are gathering off their bikes to scout a sequence of windy, bermed turns, the apex of each towering over my head where the trail seemingly folds back onto itself and snakes through the shaded forest. Amy suggests where to aim our bikes as we enter each curve, how to lean our handlebars into the berm and what optimal body position looks like: low and flow, heels down, knees wide like a cowgirl on a horse. I head back to my bike to apply what she just instructed, and with my heels pressed firmly downward and my back angled flat, I can feel my confidence improving as I float through the woods back to the Snowshed lift. FROM JUST A FEW MINUTES OF RIDING WITH AMY, it’s clear that her holistic mind-and-body approach is one of the reasons why Divas of Dirt has become so popular so quickly. Sure, she’s committed to fostering a community of female ridership, but beyond just getting a bunch of women together to ride bikes, Amy is intentional and transparent about the fundamentals necessary to create the ideal downhilling experience. This includes self awareness, the ability to concentrate and the capacity to manage fear in a productive way. Whereas many group rides and instructional clinics skip over these essentials, Amy puts them front and center. THESE SKILLS are also the cornerstones of part two of Amy Alton’s vision: the Divas of Dirt Gravity Camps. Building on the success of her Friday evening group rides and a resounding desire for more skill development among participants, Amy recruited three Vermont pros—Clarissa Finks, Alison Zimmer and Ella Skalwold—to teach a full weekend of technical instruction that’s differentiated to all ability levels. The first of these camps killington.com

killington.com

dirt divas 35

G “EVERY ONE OF US HAD TO START FROM ZERO,” Ella Skalwold

risk. Instead, they’ve elevated it, making it clear that downhilling is a progressive sport with innate risk—and huge rewards.

, “WE RE NOT HERE FOR COMFORT,” Amy says as she preps us for

, AMY S HONESTY IS REFRESHING. Being supportive enough to en-

I LEARN, first and foremost, that the attitude I bring to the sport

is my number-one limiting factor—by doubting my abilities and harboring fear about what others might think of me when I mess up, I risk missing the opportunity to move into self-discovery; I risk

I‘m not a minute into my first run when I realize how much I love this style of riding.

, THE EXPLOSION OF WOMEN S MOUNTAIN BIKING at Killington can be

killington.com

dirt divas 35

BEAST 365 ALL-SEASONS PASS Skiing/Riding + Mountain Biking + Adventure Center + Golfing + Scenic Lift Rides

MORE of every season at Killington. “I just love the community atmosphere of mountain biking. Everyone is just so cool about it.”

Unlimited winter access to the longest ski + snowboard season in the East. Unlimited access to Mountain Bike lifts and trails.

building up more fear in my life, rather than breaking it down.

AMY RESPONDS to a question about falling off the bike: “Look, falling, like failure, is a necessity in life…. You have to rewire your mind to associate biking in a new way. It is your choice to rewire with positive things, so ask for help.” She points to the three coaches behind her, and they nod in agreement. “Say, ‘Hey, can you help me with this?’” she continues. “That is your opportunity here this weekend, and we have tools that can help.”

G ON THE CHAIRLIFT, I talk with Cathy, a healthcare professional who works

in Rutland and started mountain biking two years ago. “I love it,” she says. “I just turned 40 this year, and I had to switch from running due to arthritis in my hands, feet and back. But this is not intimidating at all. Especially this ride and the weekend clinic. I just love the community atmosphere of mountain biking. Everyone is just so cool about it.”

PROGRESSING THROUGH FEAR feels like a common goal here. Back in the classroom I get chatting with Jen, a participant from Wilmington, N.Y. who tells me she signed up at midnight the other night when she felt an overwhelming need for adventure. “I’m here because it’s women and instruction,” she says. “I know I need more foundational skills to get to the next level, and I want to rip hard.” 36 dirt divas

THE MORNING CONTINUES with skills drills and on-mountain sessioning,

focused on body position and individual feedback. At one point, Ali Zimmer pulls me aside and helps adjust the position of my torso and rear over my back wheel for steep descending. “There’s no perfection in riding,” she tells me. “We’re all learning all the time; just keep open to suggestions and you’ll get it.” They key is to embrace the process, to hone the basics and to follow the lead of those more experienced around me.

AS THE DAY CONTINUES, I find myself on the chairlift among women with

Unlimited Adventure Center access, including the Woodward WreckTangle. Unlimited Golf Course greens fees. Visit killington.com/beast365pass

various backgrounds, levels of experience and motivations for attending the camp. I share my last run of the day with two who exemplify this range perfectly. To my right is a woman in her 20s with a lot of riding experience—whereas I was hoping to keep both wheels on the ground all weekend, she came to work on jumping. “I love it,” she says, “but I can’t always clear the table, so I really hope to learn how to do that this weekend.”

ON MY LEFT IS KIM, a 40-year-old season passholder from Manchester, N.H. who, along with her husband, started riding just three years ago. Now they come to the bike park every Saturday. “I’m the one who wanted to start this for years, not my husband,” she says. “He said no, so I waited. Now it’s my favorite thing I’ve ever done.” WHAT AMY SAID at the very beginning has become clear all around me: this really is for everybody. N killington.com

by Tyler Cohen