Kicking Horse & Golden Magazine WINTER 2012

SKINIORCITIZENS OF KHMR

MOUNTAIN LIFER CAREER PATH

RYAN JOHANNESEN

SHREDDER PROFILE

Inside

TOWN OF GOLDEN

REC SERVICE GUIDE

• RAD ZONES • FEW WORDS • 1ST DESCENTS • MOUNTAIN SLEDDER • WEST BENCH TRAIL • CANUCK SPLITFEST • GALLERY •

2012 Edition

Outdoor discovery map Whyte Museum of the Canadian Rockies (V653 NG 584) Vaux)

stories Knot just our can be yours

Ad

venture Ce

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T he

(they

ROCKIES Golden, British Columbia

too!)

Contains College Of The Rockies Adventure Centre Locations

NEw

WesT BenCh TraiL p.28

Snowmobile Trail Guide www.TourismGolden.com | 1.800.622.4653

Gorman, Quartz, Silent Pass, West Bench Trail

5th Edition

Order your FREE copies of our Travel Planner, Outdoor Discovery Map and Snowmobile Trail Guide @

TourismGolden.com/discover | 1.800.622.GOLD Also available at various locations in Golden

and much more...

TourismGolden.com | 1.800.622.GOLD

Photo: Dave Best

@ COLLEGE OF THE

Visit Golden BC @TourismGolden Tourism Golden

Ski and Ride the horse!

Kicking Horse Mountain Resort is a world class ski and riding destination just 14km from Golden with 2800+ skiable acres offering 120+ Runs /85+ Chutes Visit 5 world class ski resorts located less 2 hour’s drive of Golden; Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, Sunshine Village, Lake Louise Ski Resort, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Panorama Mountain Village Resort Drop into BC’s world famous virgin powder on an Heli or Cat Skiing tour Explore the wide variety of snowmobiling terrain with 240km of groomed trails Strap on your touring skis and get out into the backcountry to make the most of our average of 10m (32 ft) of snowfall Follow in the footsteps of the 2012 Canadian Nordic Masters Champions on 35km of maintained classic and skate tracks at the Dawn Mountain Nordic Ski Centre.

Hire a guide and find out why Kicking Horse Country is known as an ice climbing mecca Relive your childhood on the tubing park at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Cheer on the Golden Rockets at an action-packed hockey game

5 national parks

Enjoy the snowshoeing trails on mountain and in beautiful Blaeberry Valley

3 mountain ranges

1 incredible ride.

/VisitGoldenBC

@TourismGolden

Tourism Golden

TourismGolden.com 1.800.622.GOLD

CONTENTS 8

18

INTRO Happ‘E’ness = mski .

10-12

SADDLE UP West Bench Trail Mountain Sledder Magazine Canuck Splitboard Festival 1st Descents Few Words: Behind the Scenes

14

RAD ZONES: BACKSIDE OF OZONE An advanced backcountry zone, the Backside of Ozone, has been known to lure in the unsuspecting and uninitiated due to its close proximity. Here is what you need to know before heading north.

16

MOUNTAIN LIFER CAREER PATH Our humourous look at doing whatever it takes to make a living in the mountain town.

2

20

You’ve probably seen these aged snow-sliders merrily making their way down the slopes, day-in and day-out. If you’ve ever considered how they got to be here, you’re not alone.

22-26

TOWN OF GOLDEN: WINTER RECREATION GUIDE Use this guide to plan your winter recreation, for a healthy and fun winter! It contains everything you need to know about the Town’s recreational programs and facilities.

28-33

PROFILE: RYAN JOHANNESEN This Golden shredder has morphed from bum to businessman, but his riding skill and style remain rock solid.

SKINIOR CITIZENS OF KHMR

GALLERY Take a visual stroll through the winter season, from early storms to spring sunsets.

35

BUSINESS LISTINGS

WHO WE ARE KICKING HORSE COUNTRY is defined as extending north to Mt. Columbia, south to the Howser Towers, east to Mt. Stephen and west to Mt. Sir Donald. The Town of Golden is smack dab in the middle of this amazing mountain paradise.

LAYOUT, PROJECT MANAGEMENT AND DESIGN: Summit Communications.ca

Steve Crowe

Poster boy Ryan Johannesen has still got it. Quartz Creek, BC. Dave Best photo

PUBLISHERS

CONTENTS:

Tim & Jessica Grey sales@kickinghorsemagazine.com

GRAPHIC DESIGN Nick Marks

CONTENT MANAGER

CONTACT/ ADVERTISING/EDITORIAL

Kicking Horse Magazine Box 1767 Golden BC, VOA 1H0 Tel 250 344 5586 Steve Crowe, Wade Galloway, Patrick www.kickinghorsemagazine.com Garbutt, Tim Grey, Brian Lavoie, Jordan sales@kickinghorsemagazine.com Petrovics ONLINE VERSIONS AVAILABLE

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

COVER:

Joey Vosburgh Rogers Pass, BC. Ryan Creary photo

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR

Dave Best, Ryan Creary, Patrick Garbutt, Alex Giesbrecht, Tim Grey, Chuck Gorton, Brian Lavoie, Adrian Marcoux, Kari Medig, Chris Messervey, Mike McPhee, Steve Ogle, Jordan Petrovics

DISTRIBUTION

issuu.com/summitcommunications

FOLLOW US ON TWITTER: @KHmagazine

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK FIND US ON THE WEB www.kickinghorsemagazine.com

To distribute KH Magazine contact Jessica Grey sales@kickinghorsemagazine.com

Patrick Garbutt Copyright ©2013 Summit Communications All Rights Reserved. Printed in Canada.

INTRO

Satisfaction is the sum of an equation.

At least that’s what I seem to recall from an economics course I took years ago. The concept didn’t make much sense to me at the time, but I think I’m starting to get a handle on it.

First we have to make a list of all the things in life that make us happy: family, travel, skiing, money, turkey dinners, 3D televisions, living in the mountains, or whatever else does it for you. Then we have to assign a value to each item. Money is pretty important and usually ranks quite high for a lot of people. Personally, I like turkey dinner.

Next, we add up how much we can obtain of each item with the limited resources at our disposal, multiplied by the value we assigned to it, and that equals our total satisfaction. Yep, that’s about where the professor lost me too.

But now that the idea has had a chance to simmer in my brain for fifteen odd years, it is starting to feel a little less like theoretical mumbo-jumbo.

The point is, I think, that we need to decide what things are important to us, and do everything we can to maximize those things and forget about the rest. For many in this community, the decision is made. Forget about matching stainless steel kitchen appliances and the luxury sedan. Things like mountain vistas from the kitchen window, a blanket of fresh snow, friendly neighbours, abundant recreational activities, and family make the top of the list. The satisfaction we get from living here outweighs most everything else.

This issue is all about doing whatever it takes to spend as much time here as you can. For some people, like our featured shredder Ryan Johannesen, it means taking risks and carving a livelihood for yourself. For others less certain, our tongue-in-cheek Mountain Lifer Career Path can help you find a vocation amongst a sea of already established occupations in our community.

Some folks will get by pursuing their passions, like making photographs in our beautiful region, the results of which you can see in our gallery. Then we have the aging recreationalist who wants to spend their remaining years just like they have the rest, living every second like it’s their last.

Life is a series of sacrifices; we can’t have it all. But if you’re here, reading this magazine, then be satisfied knowing that you’re surrounded by people who would agree that you’re making the most of it, right now.

– Patrick Garbutt 8

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

An education as spectacular as the mountains that surround us . . .

Adventure Tourism Business Operations Diploma

www.cotr.bc.ca/ATBO www.cotr.bc.ca/ATBP

SADDLE UP

NEWS FROM AROUND KICKING HORSE COUNTRY

WEST BENCH TRAIL Three years after the initial proposal, and many more in the planning, the provincial government has recently approved the Golden Snowmobile Trail Society’s (GSTS) proposal for the West Bench Trail. The winter-use motorized access trail will stretch for 39 kilometres along the west side of the Columbia Valley, resulting in a continuous link between the Gorman Lake and Quartz Creek trailheads.

–PG

Quartz Creek to R

Quartz Creek Parking lot (32.3 km)

Gorman Lake

Distance: Approx. 80km round trip – Elevation: 1100m – Difficulty: Beginner Locations: Gorman Lake Trail Quartz Creek Trail – Trail Fee: YES

Lang Creek

West Bench Trail Gorman Lake Upper Parking lot

West Bench Trail

Dogtooth FSR

to Parsons

en

Golf Course Road

Gorman Lake Access Road

ld Go

Gorman Lake Parking lot

Bush Harbor to Golden

Approach:

For directions to the West Bench n Trail approach see map on Gorma Lake Area pg. 12 of this guide.

28

MOUNTAIN SLEDDER MAGAZINE

“I like new endeavours,” says Chuck Gorton of Mountain Sports Distribution (MSD) and the publisher of Mountain Sledder (MSSM).

“I wanted a good sled publication with awesome mountain riding photos and articles, and there wasn’t one in the industry.”

The magazine’s mission is to “passionately capture the essence of mountain sledding and to foster community excitement for our growing sport,” says Gorton. By tapping into the combined resources of MSD and Summit Communications (co-publisher of MSSM and publisher of the magazine currently in your hands), MSSM strives to bring to readers epic photography, stories, sled zones, new gear and riding techniques from the industry’s best riders, photographers and writers, at least twice per year. Plans are also in the works for a digital edition for an interactive experience.

Sounds like an expensive magazine to buy. “No,” says Gorton, “MSSM gives me an opportunity to advertise products we sell

10

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

FREE CANADIAN EDITION

through MSD, instead of spending money in a competitor’s junk magazine. So the mag is free.”

However, there can be a fine line between creating a blatant ad vehicle for your business and a 9 WAYS TO quality product that earns marketWRECK YOUR SLED wide acceptance and respect. At » CLEMINA CREEK GOING DEEP » QUARTZ CREEK VENTURING BEYOND first blush, it appears Mountain GREAT WHITE Sledder is navigating this risky AVALANCHE terrain admirably. In the first 10 days of being published, the online edition received 101,000 views. The 30,000 printed copies are circulating quickly and the feedback is very positive.

VOL. 1 ISS. 1 FALL 2012

VALEMOUNT BC

RAD ZONES

There is a brand new magazine on the market, and it is created right here in Golden. Mountain Sledder Snowmobile Magazine is unlike anything else currently in the hands of snowmobilers.

As the name suggests, the focus is on sledding in the mountains.

And sledding in the mountains is an exciting challenge that could use a regular source of information. Especially info with really cool photos.

ke

lsto

eve

If you’re not a mountain snowmobiler this is the trail for you!

An 8Okm return trip with several play areas for beginners along the way and even a few old logging roads to explore make this trail ride a must do.

Connecting Gorman Lake Trail to Quartz Creek gives riders the ability to access several areas all from one trail head located only minutes from the town of Golden.

(8 km)

The new trail represents a dramatic increase in the amount of non-mountainous riding available, which is ideal for family outings, and something that the Golden area has had previously in short supply. Additionally, the Society has hope that eventually the trail will be used as part of a network to directly access the Lang and Cirque snowmobile areas from the valley, rather than through the high passes. The trail will also be of great benefit to those riders wanting to ride Quartz Creek at times when the highway is closed to westbound traffic, which is a fairly common occurrence during the winter season.

Banff National Park

West Bench Trail

base layer © 2012 Google, © 2012 Province of British Columbia

The trail infrastructure will consist primarily of existing Forest Service Roads, including deactivated roads, but will also be composed to a lesser degree of cutblocks and a small amount of freshly cut swath. Two bridges will need to be installed to connect the trail over Wiseman Creek and another smaller drainage closer to Quartz. One bridge that formerly spanned the Sullivan drainage along the Bush River Forest Service Road will be recommissioned for this purpose. Local forestry consulting firm Pioneer has been contracted to complete the work, which will be paid in part by a Columbia Basin Trust grant received by the GSTS for the project.

Although budgeting and a schedule are yet to be finalized, the Society expects the trail to be open and at least semi-regularly groomed throughout the 2012/13 riding season. Check out the Tourism Golden Snowmobile Trails Guide for more information, available at local sled shops, accommodators, and online.

®

GOLDEN BC

INSIDE

GRANT CLARKE // GEAR REVIEWS // FOURCAST 2 // ULTIMATE MOD // PHOTO GALLERY // BOONDOCKING 101 // AVY ED // SLED TECH

So why is it published in Golden? “MSD and Summit Communications are both based here, in the mountains. This, along with our actual sledding lifestyles, gives the magazine credibility. Plus I like it here!”

Look for a copy of Mountain Sledder at your local sled dealer or retailer.

– Steve Crowe

SADDLE UP

CANUCK SPLITFEST Not long ago, splitboarding was still considered a fringe sport. Recent technological advances had granted snowboarders a similar ease of access to the backcountry that ski touring folk had enjoyed for years, but it took a while to catch on. During that time, splitboarders were a rare breed, occasionally spotted amidst groups of skiers. An instant camaraderie could be felt when those lone warriors chanced upon one another in the backcountry. An entire posse shredding together was about as rare as a stable and bottomless bluebird day.

Splitboard festivals had developed in the US for several years before a couple of Canuck shredders attending just such an event decided that it was high time to replicate something similar at home. World famous Rogers Pass, it was quickly realized, would be the perfect venue due to its abundant snowfall, varied terrain and easy accessibility.

In just two years from its inception, Canuck Splitfest has grown to be one of the largest splitboard gatherings in North America. Last year the event witnessed over 100 attendees, multiple vendors with demos, and almost $10,000 in prizes raffled off for the benefit of the Canadian Avalanche Foundation. “We’re no longer just dirty knuckle draggers; we’re dirty knuckle draggers giving back to the snow sports community. Together, we’ve raised almost $7,000 towards programs such as the Craig Kelly Memorial Scholarship, which helps snowboarders pursue a career in guiding,” said an organizer.

Canuck Splitfest is a celebration of the sport and an opportunity to widen skiers’ skin tracks for a weekend. Its ultimate goal is to foster friendships that will last for a lifetime of fun. May you never have to shred with a skier again, unless you’re into that kind of thing.

Graphic provided by Wade Galloway

The third annual Canuck Splitfest runs January 5th and 6th, 2013 at Rogers Pass. Saturday evening events will be held at the Hillcrest Hotel just outside of Revelstoke.Visit splitboarders.ca for more details.

- Wade Galloway

2012 SPLITFEST STATS

7

4400

SPLITBOARDS RAFFLED

0

VERTICAL FEET SKIED BY GREG HILL HE SPLITBOARDED!

40

+

OTHER PRIZES

$ RAISED FOR CAC

9

FILMS PRESENTED

100+

ATTENDEES

SADDLE UP

The first tick was marked by the Revelstoke/Golden team of Doug Sproul, Rob Martin and Troy Jungen, on the south face of Mt. Sir Sandford. Troy, who has spent many seasons based in Golden, is a celebrated and self-confessed ski-bohemian. He is most well known for his first descent of the north face of Mount Robson in 1995 with Ptor Spricenieks. The team gathered in early February 2012 for their second attempt at the south face of Mt. Sir Sandford, which is the highest peak in the Selkirk range. The mountain has made its reputation by turning away strong alpinists overcome by its height [3,522 m] and its remoteness. The ski mountaineers took five days to complete their mission, which required travelling across more than 30 km of terrain. The upper steep face, which can be seen on a clear day from most high peaks in Kicking Horse Country, is approximately 500 metres long and intimidatingly steep at fifty plus degrees. The entire descent was much longer and the team racked up a total of 2262m vertical (7421’) on the way down.

The second big line was a descent of the north face of Mt. Bryce [3,507 m], and it was accomplished solo, in a 3-day push by Goldenbased skier, Chris Brazeau.

This descent has been widely regarded as the most notable achievement in Canadian Rockies steep Mount Bryce North Face – Tim Grey photo skiing for quite some time. An interview with Chris was awarded story of the year on the steep ski blog Biglines.com, and for good reason. Bryce’s north face has been highly coveted for a long time; many wondered if it was even possible, and Brazeau’s solo accomplishment blew people away. The primary reason no one had made tracks up there before is because the skiable section on Bryce is only half of a much bigger rock face. Therefore, access to the skiable terrain would require technical rock climbing, and it would be very difficult to find the right conditions for an attempt. Brazeau, however, approached the face in a different manner. After a solo reconnaissance mission to the area, he spotted an alternate approach to the face via the south side. From a high south col, Chris accessed the face via an ice traverse. He then climbed to the top of the peak, skied the face and then climbed back up to his traverse point and exited the face without climbing a single piece of rock.

Read about it on Biglines.com: http://bit.ly/Vp7VSs

Read about on Biglines.com: http://bit.ly/RgXmCs

MT. SIR SANFORD AND MT. BRYCE

L

ast winter saw two standout ski-descents on a couple of the grandest mountains in Kicking Horse Country. Both of these are confirmed first descents.

– Tim Grey

Q

uiksilver Presents Candide Thovex’s new feature-length film ‘Few Words’, a look into the life and accomplishments of the French professional skier. Follow Candide for the last 2 years, all over the world, capturing him in his element and the stunning nature surrounding.

In his illustrious skiing career, Candide Thovex had nearly done it all. His achievements included X-Games gold medals in 3 disciplines and a remarkable Freeride World Tour Championship in his first season of competing. He was without question one of the best and most stylish skiers on the planet. It was time for him to make a feature length film.

12

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

The Few Words crew spent several weeks filming here in Kicking Horse Country in the winter of 2011, and local riders will likely recognize some of the more familiar zones used in the film.

The small crew consisted of Candide, camera operator Simon Favier and several local guides and production assistants.

One of the latter was Golden resident shredder Brian Lavoie, who was hired to assist the production team for two weeks while they were in the area. His role was to provide sleds for access (including shuttling of the crew into and around the backcountry), share local knowledge of the area, and to generally assist where needed.

Access to the more off-the-beaten-path lines that the crew wanted to shoot required some technical sledding that was taxing to both the riders and the machines. Tandem sled shuttling in steep, un-groomed, and treed terrain was challenging, especially for Candide, being outfitted in ski boots which have a tendency to slide around when standing on snowmobile rails.

Despite several near-misses, the team managed to access some tough-to-get-into terrain without any major disasters.

The snowmobiles, however, fared less well under the strain of heavy gear and hard climbs. Among other damage, a ripped tunnel and broken suspension mounts were the result of lugging around all the necessary camera gear. Lavoie spent most evenings maintaining and repairing his fleet of snowmobiles just to keep them in running order for the following day’s filming.

By Lavoie’s reckoning, the crew managed to shoot Candide skiing some pretty radical lines, including pillow lines and other short mini-golf style runs. “I had a lot of fun working for Candide. He was pretty focused and he took a lot of time to make sure everything was right. When you’re filming, time is money, but when he skied he made it happen.

Everybody watching was amazed, and he pulled off lines that nobody else could see, with style,” said Lavoie.

Few Words premiered in Paris on October 20th of this year, with a world tour to follow.

Brian Lavoie, when not in the backcountry, can be found managing his successful snowmobile rack company, knightriderracks.com.

- PG

zones

BACKSIDE OF OZONE T

he Dogtooth Range is full of wondrous bowls that can hold rad adventures. One of these special places is a north-facing slope, to the north of the KHMR ski area boundary, known as the Backside of Ozone. This slope, which is often mistakenly called Rudi’s Bowl, consists of a combination of rocky outcropping spines separated by deep narrow couloirs, and a large, fanned run-out below. Freeriding opportunities abound for the rider with the gumption and skill required to navigate this complex terrain.

The Backside of Ozone is no secret. In fact on any given winter bluebird day, from an inbounds chairlift, one can observe a steady stream of backcountry riders hiking away from the ski area boundary, up the ridgeline of the Ozone slope. For the most part, these are experienced backcountry users who have local knowledge and regularly visit this zone, riding it knowingly and as safely as possible.

However, it is all too commonplace for unversed visitors without the proper knowledge or gear to follow suit in search of adventure, but to do so blindly oblivious to the potentially deadly risk to which they are exposing themselves.

This zone is not to be taken lightly. Both the uninitiated rider and the seasoned veteran would do well to note that there have been several life-threatening injuries and rider-involved avalanche events on this wall. It is an area with very complex terrain that is largely exposed to both cornice danger and steep cliffs. Complicating the equation is a hollow snowpack full of unsupported and unconsolidated patches of snow. Rider safety is dependent on knowledge of, and how to navigate these hazards.

The first item of concern is cornice hazard that is predominant on nearly every line. Even in early winter their size is considerable, which limits access to the slopes. Be cautious when approaching the slope to be sure that you are not walking over unsupported snow. Falling off any of the larger parts of these massive cornices onto the slope below would not be a pleasant experience. There are generally a few points where you can enter onto the face without being on top of a cornice (or at least on a smaller portion of it) and this is where the 14

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

majority of the tracks will be.

If no tracks are visible, this is probably a very good indication that the regulars to this face are staying away for good reason. As always in the backcountry, visible tracks do not imply safety, but this is especially true in this zone. Several of the lines are extremely technical, and some include mandatory cliff airs and tight exits, which may have been skied by someone well above your ability level. Once committed, it can be virtually impossible to hike back uphill in a cliffed-out situation here, due to the hollowness of the snowpack.

This hollow, sugary snow is the result of a combination of a cold northern aspect and very uneven, rocky terrain on the spines. Few tracks between storms in these areas exacerbates the problem, which can cause a rider to punch through to rock in critical sections, potentially causing unbalance and a possible falling hazard.

Once past the chutes, you’re still not out of the woods yet. The exit out of the Backside of Ozone is a down-valley funnel that carries riders into a gullied forest that eventually trickles folks back to the resort boundary. The path to get here is not without concerns, however.

Most notably are the slopes above the traverse out of the upper bowl that are home to consistently unstable, cross-loaded snow that is often ripe for avalanche activity. Many a snowboarder is known to traverse directly under these slopes to avoid the flat spots in the centre of the bowl. In addition, it should be noted that just above the treeline there are a series of small but steep convex rolls. While these rolls may look like the perfect transition for a booter, riders should be aware that they are also frequent avalanche performing slopes.

If approached properly, this can be a super-fun, big mountain playground. Play safe and have fun.

Scott Belton from Adrenlin Descents ACMG guiding service contributed to the information in this article.

– Tim Grey

Chuck Gorton photo

CORNICE

HEIGHT: 2,503 meters VERTICAL: 380 meters from peak to treeline

DANGER

Although the stability of the snowpack fluctuates over time, the cornice hazard in this zone remains a constant concern. During a windy, heavy snowfall, a cornice can grow by several meters in a number of hours. This additional mass is unstable and can fall off with little or no human contact, let alone the weight of a person standing on it. Cornice fall is often the trigger of avalanches. In the springtime, massive chunks of warming cornice will frequently peel away from the ridgeline and tumble down the rest of the slope, often bringing more snow with it.

Approaching the many cornices that line the Backside of Ozone should always be done with caution.

BEST TIME: Spring LIGHT: Often in the shade ASPECT: NNE TERRAIN: Steep slopes, big cliffs, tight chutes DANGERS: Cornices, avalanches, exposure MANDATORY GEAR: Beacon, probe, shovel, knowledge COMMUNICATIONS: Decent mobile reception on peak and intermittent coverage in the bowl

LARGE GROUPS: Not recommended STATUS: Full backcountry, freeriders dream, advanced terrain

Chuck Gorton photo

PARTNER: Required

R

yan Johannesen started out here like so many others have: an underemployed teenage snowboard bum.

But today he stands as a glowing example of what’s possible in our community—he is a successful entrepreneur running multiple businesses, a notfor-profit volunteer, and an avid recreationalist.

Although his focus has shifted over the years, what has remained constant is his determination to forge his own path in life without sacrificing his passion for playing in the mountains. He still manages to shred more often than most, and harder too.

Ryan, carving his own path, circa ‘05.

Mike McPhee photo

In the beginning (though he’s probably embarrassed to admit it), it was skiing that brought RJ to the snow covered peaks of the Coast Range. Before long, he found snowboarding and soon was proficient enough to begin instructing at Cypress Mountain. But quickly he began to thirst for bigger and better places to ride. Weekend trips to Manning Park and Mount Baker fueled this fire, but it was on a season-long trip to New Zealand that he heard about a small town in British Columbia with big mountains and a growing reputation.

It was the second year of KHMR’s existence, back in 2002, when he made the move to Golden, and he hasn’t looked back since.

Like many a freshly relocated youth before him, with more time on his hands than money, Ryan at first found himself slumming it to keep the bills down, which was a far cry from his upbringing in Kitsilano. Shared rooms, no heat and shady neighbours were the price to pay for the freedom to ride day-in, day-out and improve his riding skill and style. By the following winter his efforts had begun to show, and he secured backing from local board shop Darkside, which was followed up shortly after by several big brand companies including Carrera, Rossignol, and Ride amongst others.

Over the next couple of years, Johannesen would spend considerable amounts of time riding in front of a lens, for both his own video production company BMCP, and for several wellpublished photographers in and around Kicking Horse Country.

The pay off would prove to be several full page and gallery shots, and a rider profile published in the likes of Snowboard Canada and Transworld Snowboarding magazines. His riding has been displayed in numerous ads, posters, and even on highway billboards promoting KHMR. And by producing his own video segment, RJ was able to further increase his exposure through inclusion in US snowboard filmmakers First Tracks Productions’ films.

Before long, a need arose to access new and varied terrain that brought Ryan into contact with his first snowmobile. “I started seeing [local rider Justin] Baun’s videos of riding areas in Golden that I had never been to, and it looked amazing,” says RJ. In classic dirtbag style, he and a friend decided to go ‘splitsies’ on a truck and sled for a season. “There was hardly anyone else out there riding for the first few seasons we were snowmo’boarding. It was a lot of fun and we got away with a lot.” The sled-assisted riding scene was so good that Ryan decided to buy his friend out of their fifty-fifty arrangement the very next year.

Snowmobiles aren’t cheap, but by this time Johannesen had managed to find some decent seasonal work that still allowed him the privilege of free time in the winter. An assortment of jobs that included construction, fire fighting, and a summer gig with local Glacier Raft Company as a whitewater raft guide on the Kicking Horse River kept him in enough money to keep shredding all winter.

However, after several years of more-or-less the same scene, Ryan began to feel a need to focus on something else. He knew that he wanted to stay in Golden, but wanted to pursue something rewarding and on his own terms. He had begun to notice a growing number of backcountry snowmobiler users, and amongst many of them, a noticeable lack of avalanche-aware behaviour. In response, he and a friend decided to provide a solution: they put their collective experience and formal avalanche training to use and

created a start-up company called Hangfire Avalanche Training. The venture would focus on teaching Avalanche Skills Training courses at first locally, and eventually throughout much of Western Canada.

It was a chance for RJ to pour his energy into something new and still have opportunity to get out in the snow on a regular basis.

His success with Hangfire would go on to prompt a more committing leap into the world of business. After nearly a decade of summers spent at Glacier Raft Company learning the ins-andouts of the rafting business first as a guide, then trip leader, and finally as river operations manager, an opportunity would arise for Johannesen to move into the ownership role of the company. Based on all the things he had learned managing Hangfire, he decided to take the chance. In 2010 he purchased the company and has spent the last 3 summers pushing hard to grow and improve the business.

His expansion efforts, which include offering family whitewater trips on Toby Creek out of Fairmont Hot Springs, have been slowly but steadily resulting in increased visitation. And Ryan’s innovative business strategies have also made an impact. At the 2012 Chamber of Commerce Business Excellence Awards, Glacier Raft Company cleaned up, winning Best Adventure Experience, Best Overall Tourism Experience, and Business Of The Year awards.

Running Glacier keeps RJ pretty busy year-round these days, but he still makes exceptions come winter. You’ll probably see him out there, riding hard and chasing photos and video for his current board sponsor, Prior. He’s one of the few original KHMR riders who can still be seen up there on any given day, and not just on the aging posters of him on the Day Lodge walls.

Don’t believe us? Checkout the cover of this very issue!

- Patrick Garbutt

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

17

HUMOUR

DEEP POCKETS?

SO NOW THAT YOU’RE HERE, YOU JUST NEED SOME DIRECTION FOR YOUR LIFE’S AMBITION BEYOND THE SLOPES. ANSWER THESE QUESTIONS TO MATCH YOUR SKILLS AND VALUES TO A DREAM JOB IN THE MOUNTAIN TOWN!*

TRUST FUND HIPSTER Spend Daddy’s money.

Colour coordinated outerwear.

Substance addiction.

START HERE YES

LIKE MOUNTAINS? UMM, NO WANT TO BRING YOUR DOG TO WORK?

SNARE SUGAR MOMMA/ DADDY Cocktails.

Back rubs.

Learn to dance in ski boots.

CITY SLICKER

CONSTRUCTION

Video games.

Orange mocha frappuccinos.

See you in 15 years!

Work hard, slay hard.

Get loose on Friday nights.

Use the f-word at least once per sentence.

BUSTED IN HOT TUB W/ SOMEONE YOUR OWN AGE

FORESTRY Closet full of plaid jackets.

Strong legs for touring.

Plenty of spots to nap at work.

STILL WORKING AT

4:01 PM?

GET CUT OFF

GOVERNMENT JOB Working for the man.

Listen to people whine all day.

Cushy benefits package.

HEAD EAST

18

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

LIFTY

We’re not sure how you got here either. But don’t worry, it doesn’t last long, and you can start over fresh next season.

*DISCLAIMER: THIS CHART IS MEANT TO BE HUMOUROUS. IF YOU DON’T FIND IT FUNNY, STOP READING!

WILLING TO WORK?

SKI GOOD ?

SOMEWHAT

REALLY REALLY REALLY RIDICULOUSLY GOOD LOOKING

SOCIALLY AWKWARD ?

DIRTBAG

Live in van down by the river.

Eat crackers.

Stinky sleeping bag sex.

PHOTOGRAPHER

MARKETING/ REAL ESTATE

Cold hands.

“Work” for “free”.

Cool by association.

Wear turtlenecks.

Drive low-end luxury sports car.

Ride the boom/bust rollercoaster.

CAPABLE OF PARTYING ALL STRONG

NIGHT, SHREDDING ALL

BACK?

DAY ?

BARTENDER Ringing ears.

Future liver donor recipient.

Sticky hands.

LOVE TALKING ABOUT YOURSELF?

DESIRE TO LIVE PAST 30?

MAGAZINE PUBLISHER Stress induced panic attacks.

Pale skin.

Smartass attitude.

PASSED THE EXAM?

PRO SKIER/RIDER

SKI GUIDE

Grow soul patch.

Different guests, same jokes.

Modern day slave to aristocracy.

SKI PATROL Collection of crappy skis.

Caffeine dependancy.

Save lives and break hearts.

Move to Whistler.

Heli rides.

Facebook friends with orthopedic surgeon.

SKINIOR CITIZENS OF

KHMR BY

STEVE Kari Medig photo

CROWE

G

etting old is nothing new. It’s old news, as it were. But thinking about it is new to me. I’ve come to realize that on the continuum of life there is only one direction, and I’m not heading toward young. This whole ageing thing is for real. After half a lifetime of ignoring the distant inevitability, it is time I start imagining it. Preparing for it. So I look about for mentors, and I see them skiing. They are semi- and fully retired locals who wile away their remaining days on snowy mountainsides. I call them skiniors—the smiley people with grey hair and lots of spare time (if not actual time); yes, they are seniors, but they seem to be more defined by their recreational choice than by their age. And I find that I’m looking forward to joining them because, after all, the only way to not get old is to die young.

So it’s clear that these people haven’t died young. They are getting old. But by the looks of it, they are only getting old superficially; their spirits are still young. Of course I can only grossly speculate on these individuals’ conditions and circumstances, but if their spirits weren’t young, they wouldn’t be skiing—it is self-evident. It looks like they have been skiing all their lives. They appear comfortable and content. Quietly passionate. They don’t miss powder days, they don’t miss sunny days, they don’t miss many days.

And they ski at Kicking Horse Mountain Resort, which has a reputation—not undeserved, at least along the alpine ridges—for youthful hazardous hedonism. The mountain is a real mountain, with stunning views and the precipitous slopes that help make such views so stunning. This is not where people come to look fashionable in fur on the bunny hill. People who come to settle here for their twilight years (or have evolved locally) must enjoy the rewards of challenging themselves. They possess a joie de vivre, and more particularly, a joie de ski. They have conditioned their bodies for endurance by skiing frequently and for a lifetime. There are easier mountains upon which to spend one’s waning years—I can think of pretty much every other one. Sure there are gentler slopes for when the legs need a break, but no one chooses a ski resort at which to retire that is above their ability. The skiniors at KHMR are here to ski the real deal (and yes of course snowboard). And the fact that they are almost universally cheerful indicates they are still grasping life by its loins and tickling it just so.

I love it. I, eventually, want it. They get to be ski bums, without the hassles of being young ski bums. Maybe they were those in the distant past as well, but at that age the food is terrible, your bed is a sleeping bag, you stink, and your gear is beat. Skiniors have homes, cooking skills and the ability to regulate alcohol consumption so as to avoid hangovers. And they still get to ski whenever they feel like it.

So how did they get there? Am I on the right path to joining their club? What are the conceivable routes? Well, I’ve come to think the paths can be categorized into three possible avenues: the first (which I’ll call black), is where you work really hard at something you may not be stoked on and hope to make lots of money so you can afford to take annual holidays and retire in luxury at a 20

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

ski resort; the second (which I’ll call white, because it gets most of the snow), is where you spend your whole life skiing and scraping by until you can’t anymore, then die; and the third (grey), is where you create any sort of mix of black and white.

The benefits of each can be boiled down to these: for black, money to blow on a swankin’ pad and sweet gear to support and glorify your aged body; for white, cramming powder up your nose, and in your goggles, and down the back of your neck every possible day for your whole life; and for grey, well, various shades of grey.

MY PATH BECAME CLEAR...TO LIVE IT UP UNTIL THE SPRING MELT OF ETERNITY WASHES US AWAY. Drawbacks: for black, you run the risk of dying before you get to live the dream, or getting injured, or sick, or poor—just because you chase the golden goose doesn’t mean it gets caught; for white, it is the nervous thought that a life of skiing is so frivolous, so bereft of deep meaning that you are wasting the gift of existence on absurdity; and for grey, dark grey to light grey.

Each route has sacrifices as well. For black, the price is giving up countless youthful powder days that will never, ever be available again. For white, it is the opportunity to get financially wealthy and socially respectable (well, to people who don’t live in ski towns). For grey, well, you know.

Skiing is important to me too. I hope to still be doing it in 15 years and more. And I’m not alone. We, and the current skiniors, are active generations. Most of us recognize the value of a physical lifestyle, and many of us actually live it. In a town like Golden, much of that physicality is expressed in winter as skiing.

Because of this preference, Golden, on my scale, is obviously a light grey town. On a powder day you sure see a lot of people that you know have jobs and businesses to run, but there they are, trying to snake your line. I’ve seen them there because I’ve organized my life around skiing too.

So I think I’m on the right path to achieving my retirement goals, which at the current rate will probably be more like semi-retirement. Affordability is always the key. The skiniors of the moment have found ways to eat enough food, keep shelter over their heads and buy season passes, but will I? In the March 12, 2012 issue of TIME magazine is discussed the idea of “affinity housing—niche communities where choosy (baby) boomers can opt to grow old alongside others who share a specific interest.” The article goes on to emphasize the boomers’ “desire to remain active as long as possible.” Upon reading this, my path became clear. To maintain a ski lifestyle into my oldest of ages, without a nest egg, I will eventually move into a luxurious ski chalet with my wife and 3-5 other skiniors, to live it up until the spring melt of eternity washes us away. As it did for me in my 20’s, living with several other people will reduce real estate and living costs, reduce energy waste, improve meal quality, decrease food prep and clean-up, and importantly in the future, will provide in-home assistance for routine medical care—from each other. And village living means there will be a shred posse readily available every single morning. Last but not least, we can rest assured knowing someone will come to our funerals.

So clearly there are choices to make. It appears that the skiniors must have made some good ones to be in their present respective situations. But I’ve already been making choices too. If black and white are like clearly defined, parallel ski runs cut through a forest, then I’m skiing the glades between them, making decisions and dodging obstacles. When I’m feeling loose I steer toward the white, but when I’m in a tight spot I’ll go black if I have to.

I suspect the skiniors have skied similar lines. The fact that we share the same ski town and ski terrain leads me to this conclusion. They have made the decision to live in a sleepy little mountain town with a kick-ass ski resort. Skiing is important to them. It is that important. It has shaped their decisions. They have kept in shape physically, mentally, spiritually and financially. They have worked toward this all their lives, consciously or not.

Perhaps today’s skiniors will begin to form ski communes as they outlive their savings but not their desire to slide on snow. Maybe not and it will be my generation who will be the pioneers. Regardless, they have inspired me to not grow up and keep myself young by surrounding myself with other young spirits. And what better place? They are, after all, called the Golden Years.

Steve Crowe is 43 and only feels old when he moves his body, thinks, and when he has to get up in the night to pee.

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

21

WINTER

RECREATIONAL SERVICE GUIDE 2012/13

Mark Baxendale Photo

GOLDEN.CA

Mark Baxendale Photo

ICE RINK , SHINNY, PARENTS & TOTS, HOCKEY, PUBLIC FUN, FIGURE SKATING, GYM

SPACE, MOUNT 7 REC PLEX, OUTDOOR RINKS, AQUAFIT, SWIMMING LESSONS, CURLING RINK ACTIVE ENTERTAINMENT, + A LOT MORE.

,

Welcome to Winter!

The chill in the air and snow on the ground means it’s time for a different kind of play. Gone to rest for the season under the snow and ice are the typical summer activities like swimming at the Pool, cooling down in the spray park, backyard BBQs, riverside camping, or the old Golden favorite “mosquito salute”.

However there is no need to mourn the loss of these activities – they will return. Now is the time we look forward to all the amazing winter opportunities this community has to offer. The winter in Golden brings boundless recreation, leisure, and play activities for residents and visitors who seek fun outdoors and within our fantastic facilities.

Enthusiastic volunteer-led, not-for-profit clubs like the Nordic Club and the Alpine Team offer outdoor-based opportunities for residents and visitors. However, if you are looking for things to do in an covered environment, the Town of Golden Recreation Services proudly provides indoor recreation opportunities for children, youth, adults, and seniors. Take shelter from the elements with any of our public programs listed in this official Winter 2012/13 Recreation Services Guide.

Make your new year’s resolution to a healthy and active lifestyle early. Get started today! Be healthy, vibrant, active and have some fun while you are at it.

GOLDEN & DISTRICT ARENA

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednes

Public Skate

Shinny

Parent Tot & Senior Public Skate

Public Sk

Drop in Hockey

PUBLIC ARENA PROGRAMS 9:30pm – 10:00am –

Located at 1410 9th St South, the Golden and District Arena is the hub facility for ice sports in Golden.

The arena is home for numerous sports clubs, dedicated to perfecting the art of their sport on and off the ice.

The arena has a large lobby, concession, heated bleachers, change rooms and a second story lounge that can be used as a warm viewing location, meeting room or exercise room and is perfect for any mid-sized group.

The ice pad is operational from late August – late March annually with the dry floor space rentable from mid-April to early August. Groups using the ice pad on a regular basis include: the figure skating club, minor hockey, and men’s and women’s recreational hockey. The venue is also home for the Golden Rockets Junor B Hockey team and public drop in programming.

ARENA LOUNGE

PARENTS & TOTS

The Arena lounge is located on the upper floor of the building. It features natural light, a servery, storage, washrooms, mirrored walls, and a large floor space designed for numerous active activities. Tables and chairs are also available upon request. Perfect for dry land training, meetings, celebrations, and special events, the space is available for rent, year round. Groups commonly using the space include: martial arts, belly dancing, figure skating dry land, summer camps, training sessions, and general meetings.

Tuesday and Thursday mornings is a special public skate for parents and tots. The program is free for all parents who skate with their child; however, the skate is open for everyone to attend. Regular rates apply to all seniors, adults and students.

4:30pm 5:45pm

10:30pm

11:15am

Public for everyone!

All skating ages welcome programs Must be 19+ Parent with Tot are free, everyone welcome

All ages welc

* Dates subject change, with arena is closedfamily on holidays.

Whether it is to a skate your or an * Helmets are strongly recommended for all participants at Public Skates, esp afternoon our with your friends, the arena offers * No pucks or sticks are allowed on the ice during public skate programs. * Shinny dropand in hockey is for adults 19 years a fun-filled affordable time on and theolder, ice. full hockey gear is m

Public skate happens on Wednesday, Friday, Saturday and Sundays (see the public arena programs schedule Public Skate Ratesfor details) RATES Sunday Adult Public Skate Student Child Senior 4:30pm Family 5:45pm

Drop in Monday $4.50 Shinny Drop in Hockey $3.25 $2.50 $2.50 9:30pm – $10.50 10:30pm

Punch Pass Wednes Tuesday $40.50 Parent Tot & Public Sk $29.25 Senior Public Skate $22.50 $22.50 – 10:00am 7:00pm $94.50 11:15am 8:15pm

All ages welcome Must be 19+ with All ages welc * Punch Pass – 10 skates for theParent price ofTot9are free, everyone welcome * Prices subject to change * Dates subject to change, arena is closed on holidays. * Helmets are strongly recommended for all participants at Public Skates, esp * No pucks or sticks are allowed on the ice during public skate programs.

Shinny * Shinny drop in hockey is for adults 19 years and older, full hockey gear is m

SHINNY

Rates Drop in Punch Pass $6.50 $58.50 DoAdult you love to play *Public PunchSkate Pass –Rates 10 sessions for the price of 9

hockey for fun and * Prices subject to change looking to meet some RATES Drop in Punch Pass people for a casual Adult $4.50 $40.50 evening game? Shinny Studenton Monday $3.25and $29.25 happens Child $2.50 $22.50 Thursday nights. Adults Senior $22.50 19+ are welcome$2.50 to drop Family $10.50 $94.50 in and play. Full hockey * Punch Pass – 10 skates for the price of 9 equipment is mandatory. * Prices subject to change

Shinny Rates Adult

Drop in $6.50

Punch Pass $58.50

* Punch Pass – 10 sessions * Prices subject to change

ARENA PROGRAM SCHEDULE

for the price of 9

RINK BOOKINGS

Sunday

Monday

Tuesday

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Public Skate

Shinny

Drop in Hockey

Parent Tot & Senior Public Skate

Public Skate

Shinny

Drop in Hockey

Parent Tot & Senior Public Skate

4:30pm 5:45pm

9:30pm – 10:30pm

10:00am – 11:15am

7:00pm – 8:15pm

9:15pm – 10:30pm

10:00am – 11:15am

12:00pm – 1:45pm

5:30pm – 6:45pm

All ages welcome

Must be 19+

Parent with Tot are free, everyone welcome

All ages welcome

Must be 19+

Parent with Tot are free, everyone welcome

All ages welcome

All ages welcome

* Dates subject to change, arena is closed on holidays. * Helmets are strongly recommended for all participants at Public Skates, especially children and youth. * No pucks or sticks are allowed on the ice during public skate programs. * Shinny drop in hockey is for adults 19 years and older, full hockey gear is mandatory

Friday

Saturday

Public Skate Public Skate

Rent the arena for your next special event, also ask about our public skate sponsorship program.

250-344-2271 Ex 225 rec.booking@golden.ca www.golden.ca

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE Public Skate Rates

7:00pm 8:15pm

Dave Best Photo

FROZEN FUN ARENA SKATING

23

MOUNT 7 REC PLEX

PARENTS AND TOTS

REC PLEX Located at 1310 9th Street South the Mount 7 Rec Plex is a community gym, owned by the Town of Golden and managed by the Rec Plex Users Society.

Originally constructed in the early 1960’s as a high school gymnasium the building became a community facility after the construction of a new highschool in the late 1980’s.

The municipality took over ownership of the gymnasium from the school board and the facility now functions as a multi-use sports and general community-use complex.

The gym can host basketball, badminton, volleyball, and other activities that are traditionally hosted on a hard wood gym floor. The building is equipped with a performance stage, change rooms, bleachers and small kitchen. Tables and chairs are available for theater and dinner style events. The building can hold over 600 people.

Groups that use the gym on a regular basis and always looking for more members include; basketball association, badminton, volleyball, indoor soccer and yoga.

The venue is also a popular home for community gatherings and special events.

To book the gym call 250-344-7011 E-mail mt7recplex@telus.net

WINTER WALKING

PARENTS AND TOTS PLAY

When: Wednesdays and Fridays Time: 1:00pm – 2:30pm Location: The Mount 7 Rec Plex November 9 - December 21 & January 4 - March 27

When: Wednesdays Time: 10:30am to 12:00noon Location: The Mount 7 Rec Plex September 5/12 to June 12, 2013

Walking on a regular basis improves health and wellbeing. It reduces stress, strengthens the heart and lungs, increases energy levels, helps you maintain and achieve a healthy body weight and it improves your outlook on life. During the winter months, getting out for a casual stroll can be challenging.

The motivation for a regular walk can be hard to find during the colder dark days of winter. The Winter Walking program is designed to give everyone an opportunity to get out and walk in a bright, warm and safe environment. Talk to your friends about attending together!

The Golden Parent and Tot program provides a great social opportunity for children and parents. Designed for children up to five years and their parents or caregivers.

Did you know?

Keeping a regular “appointment” with someone is one of the best ways to achieve your fitness goals.

They keep you accountable. Talk to your friends about signing up together!

It’s free! Drop in at no cost on Wednesdays and Fridays. call 250-344-2271 or e-mail rec.booking@golden.ca *Note: There will be no Winter Walking on November 16 and on any statutory holiday

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KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

Qualified facilitators offer a typical preschool type program including free play, songs, story time, creative arts and healthy snack. During this play time Children are introduced to group and social activities with the security of having their parents or caregivers present.

The Town of Golden Parent and Tot Program is a partner program with the Golden Infant Development Program and one of the longest running recreation programs in the area.

For more information call Rhonda Smith, Golden Infant Development Program Consultant Phone: 250-344-2000 E-mail: goldidp@uniserve.com Parent and Tot is a joint project with the Town of Golden and the Golden Family Centre

OUTDOOR RINKS CIVIC CENTER OUTDOOR SKATING RINKS Over the winter months many local parks are converted into small neighborhood skating rinks. These parks are perfect for wintertime fun and open to all ages for play. Community shinny matches commonly happen in these rinks.

•

Dogwood Park – located between 5th and 6th Street South

•

The summer basketball courts next to the Mount 7 Rec Plex

•

Keith King Memorial Park

•

Canyon Ridge

•

NEW – Alexander Park

CIVIC CENTRE Kicking Horse Culture manages the Golden Civic Centre on behalf of the Town of Golden. The building is located on the south side of the Kicking Horse River at 810 10th Ave. S. (Highway 95 S.) next door to the Golden Cinema.

The Great Hall is a beautiful and welcoming venue for concerts, conferences, meetings, memorials, weddings and celebrations.

On the accessible lower floor, a board room is available for smaller meetings and presentations. These multi-purpose rooms are available for half and full days.

For more information on frequently asked questions, rental of the building, license agreements, photos and more, contact Kicking Horse Culture at: www.kickinghorseculture.ca/civic-centre pa@kickinghorseculture.com phone 250-344-6186

Mark Baxendale Photo

OUTDOOR SKATING RINKS LOCATIONS

CURLING RINK The Golden Curling Rink was established in 1892 and is the oldest curling club in British Columbia. The club has called its present building home since 1978, built in partnership with the Kinsmen Club of Golden and hundreds of volunteer hours.

Many face lifts have taken place over the years resulting in an eye catching look that does not resemble a typical curling rink atmosphere.

The club is operated by volunteers and the game is inexpensive to play. Public are encouraged to come out and join in the fun along with taking in the social side of the sport.

The building, including the lounge, kitchen and floor space are available for rent year round with the curling season running from mid-October to mid-March. Drop in curling is available on Monday, Wednesday and Friday’s at 1:30pm and league play happens on Tuesday and Thursday evenings at 7:30pm.

For more information on Curling programs call the rink at 250-344-5461.

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

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RECREATION PARTNERS RED CROSS SWIMMING LESSONS AQUAFIT Tuesdays and Thursdays 5:30 – 6:30pm Fall Session: October 9 – December 4, 2012.

Winter Session: January 8 – March 14, 2013 Location: Days Inn Aqua Fit is an exercise class for everyone! Whether you are young, old or in the middle Aqua Fitness is for YOU! Why try it you ask? Well this low impact workout can inspire everyone to work at their own pace. The intensity depends on YOU. The FIVE “Magical Properties” of Water: • Buoyancy – decreases shock making is a low impact workout • Turbulence – currents in the water promote circulation, relaxation and engage core muscles for stability • Resistance – intensity of the exercise can be changed by increasing or decreasing surface area • Hydrostatic Pressure – heart rate is lowered without losing cardiovascular or aerobic training • Thermal Conductivity – water “wicks” away excess heat creating a cool workout environment.

And with the groovy music who wouldn’t want to give this cross-training workout a try?

Price: Drop in $6.50 10 visit punch card $58.50 (10 sessions for the price of 9)

RED CROSS SWIMMING LESSONS This winter the Town of Golden is offering Red Cross Swimming for children 2 and older. Register your child today so they can improve their swim skills and fitness in a safe, fun, and supportive learning environment. For more information email kim.bryan@golden.ca or call 250-344-2271. Registration opens December 3rd at Town Hall (810 9th Ave S.) Hours are Monday-Friday 8:30am-4:30pm. We accept cash, cheque, and debit.

January 15th - February 14th Red Cross Swim Lessons Tuesdays and Thursdays The Sportsman Lodge Winter Lessons January 15th – February 14th *Dates and location subject to change Tuesdays and Thursdays Location Program Sea Turtle *parented Sea Otter Salamander Sunfish Swim Kids 1 / 2 Swim Kids 3

These prices include tax. Payment for Drop-ins and punch passes available on site.

Please bring cash or cheque.

Golden boasts over 100 not-for-profit groups and countless passionate residents who dedicate their free time to building healthy activities and socialization for children, youth, adults, seniors, and families alike. All these programs have plenty of room for you to get involved however finding out more information can challenging.

Through its Recreation & Cultural Partnership Program, The Town of Golden Recreation Services Department is building a “one stop shop” that gives residents and visitors the opportunity to learn about all the different recreation and cultural groups who provide opportunities open to the public.

The goals of the program are to provide opportunities to market through an up-todate information page on the Town of Golden website, a bi-annual printed recreation and culture guide, and access to post on the Town of Golden’s community calendar.

The power of this partnership is intended to raise the awareness, attendance, granting support and overall social status of each organization.

The Recreation & Cultural Partnership Program is in its infancy and seeking input from public. With a goal to promote any non-for-profit or private business that delivers recreation, leisure, or cultural activities for residents and visitors of Golden and area.

For more information on how your organization can become a partner in this program contact Jordan Petrovics, Manager of Recreation Services at the Town of Golden 250-344-2271 or rec.booking@golden.ca

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KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

Time 4:00 – 4:25pm 4:30 – 4:55pm 5:00 – 5:25pm 5:00 – 5:25pm 4:00 – 4:25pm 4:30 – 4:55pm

Price $50 Golden / $55 other $50 Golden / $55 other $50 Golden / $55 other $50 Golden / $55 other $50 Golden / $55 other $50 Golden / $55 other

Sea Turtle (24-36 months) *semi-parented

*Dates and location subject to change. There will be no Aquafit on any statutory holidays.

RECREATION PARTNERS

The Sportsman Lodge *Dates and location subject to change

In this transition level, parents participate in the first four lessons while swimmers gradually transition to being on their own with an instructor. Swimmers learn through fun games and songs, how to combine skills, how to kick with a buoyant object and how to perform basic floats, glides and kicks.

Sea Otter (3-5 years) Using games and activities, swimmers learn to open their eyes under water, further develop basic floats and glides, and swim 1 meter. They also learn age-appropriate water safety skills. All skills are assisted by the instructor.

Salamander (3-5 years) Swimmers enter this level when they have successfully completed Sea Otter. Using games and activities, swimmers to float and glide and front swim on their own! They will also learn how to use a Personal Floatation Device (PFD) and to swim only when an adult is present.

Sunfish (3-6 years) Swimmers enter this level when they have successfully completed Salamander. Using games and activities swimmers learn to side glide, and increase the distance on their glides and swims. Safety skills include deep-water skills!

(5 years +) Swimmers receive an orientation to water and the pool area and work on submersion, floating, gliding and kicking all on their own. Distance Swim 5 metres.

Swimmers work on propulsion skills to move through the water and to remain at the surface. Swimmers learn deep-water activities and proper use of a Personal Floatation Device (PFD). Distance Swim 10 metres.

Swimmers learn a front glide/side glide combo to prepare them for Front Crawl.

They are introduced to diving, and learn how to make wise choices about where and when to swim. Distance Swim 15 metres.

Apostoles Greek Restaurant

250-344-4906

Greek, Steak & Pasta Serving Golden for over 20 years

Apostoles Guest Apartment 2 Bedroom - 2 Double Beds Full Kitchen Satellite TV / Internet Connection

Located in Golden at 901 -10th Ave S Hwy 95 at the lights

www.apostoles.ca

Steakhouse Breakfast Super Hi-Def T.V.’S

ANOTHER

DAY

IN

Open daily for breakfast, lunch and dinner

PARADISE! (250).344.3693

thecanyonsedge.ca

101 Gould’s Island, 10th Ave., Golden, BC 250-344-2400 www.islandrestaurant.ca

Gallery

Rogers Pass, BC. Ryan Creary photo

Scott Heale Western Rockies, BC. Ryan Creary photo 28

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

Gallery

Luke Nelson Icefall Lodge, BC. Steve Ogle photo KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

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Gallery

Darcy Keller Old Man Creek, BC. Chris Messervey photo 30

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

Gallery

Murchison Falls, BC. Ryan Creary photo KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

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Gallery

Rogers Pass, BC. Ryan Creary photo 32

KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

Gallery

Jon Foy Chatter Creek, BC. Dave Best photo

Glacier Park Lodge, BC. Ryan Creary photo KICKING HORSE MAGAZINE

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No one can go back and make a new start.

But anyone can begin now and make a new end.

55 4.

34 0.

25

Weekly Services and Studies Youth Programs Support for the BrokenHearted

86

– Carl Bard

AD VE

250.344.2456 rmaconline.com

RT I

ZI

N G

BC’s very own food people

CHATTER CREEK

www.chattercreek.ca real mountain experience

GOLDEN Business Listings Accommodation & Lodging

Flowers

Media & Design

• Bellstar Hotel and Resort

• Kicking Horse River Lodge

• Summit Communications

• Hillside Lodge & Chalets

Food, Beverage & Cafes

Realtors

bellstar.ca/kickinghorse stay@bellstar.ca 1.877.754.5486

hillsidechalets.com info@hillsidechalets.com 250.344.7281

• Tourism Golden

tourismgolden.com/ accommodations

Arts & Entertainment, • Bizarre Entertainment

824 10Ave South Golden, BC 250.344.6633

• Kicking Horse Culture

Art Gallery of Golden 516 9th Ave. N, Golden kickinghorseculture.ca 250.344.6186

Catering & Party Rentals • Kickin Thyme Catering

of Golden

Kickinthymecatering.ca kickinthymecatering@gmail. com 250.272.2433

• Kicking Horse River Lodge

kickinghorseriverlodge.com info@khrl.com 250.439.1112

• Catering by Whitetooth whitetoothbistro.com 427 9th Ave N, Golden 604.938.3566

Cat Skiing • Chatter Creek

Bob Tegart Specializing in recreational, residential, rural and commercial property.

Bus: 250.344.7663 cell: 250.272.4321 1.800.661.6363

bob@remaxgolden.com

If you enjoy reading Kicking Horse Magazine, we would encourage you to go the extra mile to support the businesses listed here.

chattercreek.ca 1.877.311.7199

Construction

kickinghorseriverlodge.com info@khrl.com 250.439.1112

•Apostoles Greek Restaurant apostoles.ca 901-10th Ave S, Golden 250.344.4906

•Big Bend Cafe

528 9th Ave N, Golden 250.344.6111

• Canyon’s Edge

summitcommunications.ca tim@summitcommunications.ca 250.344.5586

• Bob Tegart

250.272.4321 bob@remaxgolden.com

• Marlon Chambers

250.344.0735 www.marlonchambers.com

Recreational Activities

thecanyonsedge.ca 1416 Golden View Road, Golden • Kicking Horse Mountain Resort Kickinghorseresort.com 250.344.3693 1500 Kicking Horse Trail, Golden • The Island Restaurant 1-866-Ski-Kick (754-5425) islandrestaurant.ca 101 Gould’s Island, 10th Ave S. Services 250.344.2400 • College of the Rockies• The Turning Point Restaurant Golden Campus turningpointrestaurant.com cotr.bc.ca/adventurecentre 906 11 Ave. S, Golden 250.344.5901 250.344.2566 • Town of Golden • Whitetooth Mountain Bistro golden.ca whitetoothbistro.com 250.344.2271 427 9th Ave N, Golden • Golden Area Initiatives 250.344.5120 www.livegoldenbc.ca 250-344-2420 Grocery Stores

• Overwaitea Foods

overwaitea.com 1020 10th Ave S, Golden 250-344-5315

• Sobeys

sobeys.com 624 9th Ave N, Golden 250.344.2361

Hair & Beauty • Mary Kay Cosmetics

• Dogtooth Log and Timber Products

marykay.ca/ehatlevik ehatlevik@gmail.com 250.344.4799

• Mountaincraft Woodworks

250.344.5766

dogtoothlogandtimber.com info@dogtoothlogandtimber.com • Personal Touch Hair & Body Day Spa 250.344.3992 personal-touch.ca • Hüberthaus Timber Frames 902 - 9th St S, Golden timberframecanada.com 250.344.6413 contact@timberframecanada. com • Reflections Hair Studio 250.344.8956 828- 10th Ave, Golden

Snowmobile Rentals & Tours • Golden Snowmobile Rentals Ltd

goldensnowmobilerentals.com 910 9th St N, Golden BC 250.344.6100 • Snowpeak Rentals Ltd • snowpeakrentals.com 1416 Golden View Road, Golden 1.888.512.4222

Sporting Goods Golden Gear Exchange & Higher Ground Mountain Sports goldengearstore.ca 420B 9th Ave N 250.344.7980

davetrerice@hotmail.com 250.439.8382 If you would like your business featured here in the next issue, please contact us at 250.344.5586 | sales@kickinghorsemagazine.com

Golden Lifestyle Properties

Marlon Chambers www.marlonchambers.com 250 344 0735

1668 Dogtooth Cl 4 bd 4 bth $1,799,000+HST

1601 Golden Ave. 4 bd 3 bth $1,395,000+HST

1592 Golden Ave. 3 bd 3 bth $1,095,000+HST

1604 Purcell Woods

1669 Dogtooth Cl.

1618 Purcell Woods

3 bd 4 bth $1,050,000

1614 Purcell Woods

3 bd 3 bth

$969,000

2458 Kettleston Rd

40 acre

$795,000

3 bd 3 bth

$995,000

Townhomes priced from $290,000+HST

1741 Seward Rd

14.22 acre $695,000

OF GOLDEN

$995,000

Condo’s priced from $179,000

1437 Granite Dr 4 bdrm 3 bth $595,000

520D 9th Ave. North, Box 109, Golden, B.C., V0A 1H0 W: (250)344-7663 / F: (250)344-7648 each office is independently owned and operated

3 bd 3 bth