The Echo Week 18

ISSUE 1418 | MAR 22, 2019

THE

ECHO

FREE WEEKLY GUIDE TO VAL D’ISERE

M A G A Z I N E

THE MONOSKI EDITION

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COVER ART

By Sam Kay Interview: Page 10

PROUDLY PRESENTED BY THE FOLIE DOUCE ART PROJECT Each week, the front cover of The Echo is going to be a different artwork produced by mostly local artists, but also several from further afield. This project is being very generously supported by La Folie Douce, whose contribution is allowing the artists to be paid ahead of time for their work, as both Folie and The Echo firmly believe in paying people for their skills.

If you’re interested in drawing/painting/ collaging/ creating something in whatever medium takes your fancy, please get in touch by emailing contact@valecho.co.uk and we can discuss. Equally, if you’re interested in writing for the magazine or have ideas for a feature, drop us a line.

At the end of the season, the plan is to

We want to encourage a community of creators and give people a space to use their talents, even if whilst out here, many are taking a break from “regular life”.

Prints of the artwork are available to purchase on The Echo website, www. valecho.co.uk/shop, with profits going to the artists.

hold an exhibition of all The Echo covers from the winter, and again Folie Douce is supporting this endeavour, as it fits with their creative vision.

We can’t wait to see what the artists come up with each week and look forward to talking to them about their work and life in or out of the mountains.

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CONT ENTS Echo Publications CCK Intergalactic Ltd

www.valecho.co.uk contact@valecho.co.uk Please recycle the magazine once you have read it. Or, better still, hand it on to someone else.

Contributors: Sam Box, Ben Pryor, Caitlin Kennedy, Al and Abi Nasmyth

06 RESORT GUIDE The down-low on everything from the best restaurants to the numbers to call in an emergency

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SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTIST

27 HOW TO MONOSKI Top Tips from The Snowberry team on how to get that hip swing down

35 HOW TO NAIL THAT

80’S LOOK A rough guide on mastering the ultimate style of the slopes culminating in a shameless plug for our sweet ski jacket sale

40 EVENT GUIDE What’s on this week: - Town events - Bar nights - Sporting competitions

40 THE MONOSKI WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS The run-down on the hottest event of the calendar plus how you can borrow a monoski to practise

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We chat to Sam Kay, the designer of this week’s cover art. The Echo’s cover is generously sponsored by La Folie Douce

16 OUT OF THE BUBBLE A satirical spin on the week’s events from further afield than the Espace Killy

20 MONOSKIERS

OF THE WEEK We chat to the King and Queen (or at least Prince and Princess) of the single ski about their ambitions for the coming Champs

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SPOTLIGHT ON THE ARTIST Artist: Sam Kay

I do the scratchy lines can always go a different way.

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Has your cover got a name?

I was going to put a caption on the bottom but it is quite personal and no-one would have known what it meant so I will keep it to myself.

Tell us about the ink pictures in your sketchbook.

It’s basically fountain pen ink, I use three or four cups of water with different amounts of ink in each one. It’s really easy as well because you just do a rough outline and the ink does most of the work for you. You use a paint brush with the different concentrations of ink and water. I go through stages; at the moment I am enjoying using fine liners for shading.

Tell us about your cover.

I just really enjoy drawing skulls and just anything of the anatomy really. Obviously I wanted to relate it to Val so you’ve got the mountains up top and you’ve got the stream running through it. The three stars represent a night when Lewis and I were outside Moris; the sky was perfectly clear and you could see loads of stars. He pointed out some constellations to me; I thought it was really cool to see how much he knew about astronomy and it was amazing to see how interested he was in it.

In the initial sketch, the river was coming down the mountain and falling out of his left eye but it kinda looked like he was crying.

Obviously people are out here to have a good time so I cut that bit out.

How does the sketch work?

It’s always in pencil first. I am quite meticulous and I like things to look how they are in my head. Obviously it doesn’t always go that way and it changes while you are doing the drawing. For instance, the way

How did you start drawing?

Both of my grandads were insane at art. One of my earliest memories is coming home from school on a Friday; my Grandad Frank and I would sit and draw for hours. We both had these Jurassic Park sketchbooks.

What makes an artist?

I was talking to Eric about this the other day. The way I look at art is that anyone can create something. Eric suggested to me that the difference is that some do it better than others but I think it depends on the way you look at it. Some people may see mine and not like it. People should try it though, it’s good fun. I find it really therapeutic, if you are having a bad day you can drift off and draw something.

What can’t you draw?

I struggle to draw eyes but I am good at hands which is the opposite to Tom last week. Maybe we should do a collab! But if there is something I can’t draw accurately, I make it look a bit dysfunctional and abstract; there is ways of getting around it.

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Have you done any commissions?

I’ve done a few drawings for people and actually a few cards for birthdays and things.

Whenever I do it though I just ask for them to pay for the materials as the enjoyment is the payment itself. It’s like the money for doing the cover, I had no idea that being paid was a part of it and all I am going to do is waste it on booze

Have you drawn any of your tattoos?

I collaborate with the artist sometimes. I’ll sit down with the woman who does mine for a couple of hours and give her the idea which she then converts to tattoo form.

Sam absolutely insisted that we donate the money he would be paid for doing the cover to charity. He also points out that all seasonaires towards the end of the season will have a few euros knocking about and that if everyone donated just five euros, not even the price of a pint, then it could do a great deal for charity. Sam supports our chosen charity which is Mind, a charity supporting those with mental health issues.

anywhere to display your art?

I have never really pursued it. I am thinking of starting up an illustration page and seeing if it goes anywhere. I need to think of a cool name, maybe Bad Books which is one of my favourite bands and it works with my book of sketches. If nothing comes of it I am still going to be enjoying my drawing.

What does it say on your fingers?

It says infinite, I got it a year to the hour from when my nan passed away. She was my best mate so I wanted to do something for her.

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PLANKS PHOTO

COMPETITION

Each week the winner of the Planks Photo Competition wins themselves a Planks beanie from the flagship store in town.

Prize must be collected within a week of winning.

This week’s winner: Eireann Mitchell Enter at www.valecho.co.uk/competitions

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OUT OF THE BUBBLE

By Ben Pryor A terrible tragedy in New Zealand, as an armed gunman entered two mosques near Christchurch and opened fire, killing 50 people, the worst mass shooting in the country’s history. Their Prime Minister, Jacinda Arden, announced she was banning all military-style semi-automatic and assault rifles, along with related parts used to convert guns and all high-capacity magazines as of six days after the attack, with legislation likely to be in place by the 11th April, showing how any other nation on Earth not weighed down with a misinterpretation of an Amendment ratified in 1791 (when it took over a minute

to reload a gun), and a lobby which thinks the solution to school shootings is arming teachers, would handle the aftermath of such an event.

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A scarcely credible week from Theresa gonebyMay after the Commons Speaker, John ‘any dwarf but Happy’ Bercow, stepped in to prevent her zero Tinder hits of a Chequered Brexit being brought to the Commons to be voted down for a third time; the Jeremy stormed out of subsequent cross-party talks after Chuka Umunna was invited, as he ‘isn’t a proper party leader’; physician, heal thyself.

The PM then took to the microphone to blame all MPs, whatever flavour they may be, for not voting her deal through before heading to Brussels to request an extension to the end of June. Symptomatic of all her negotiations with the EU, she

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asked for three months and got two weeks, with the 12th April the date by which her deal is voted through or the UK must commit to contesting the European elections. Nigel Farage’s chances of leaving Brussels and Strasbourg look more remote by the day; whatever the other economic fallout from Brexit may be, restaurants and vintners in both towns just won the lottery.

Donald Trump Jr said ‘democracy in the UK is all but dead’ because Theresa gonebyMay ignored his father’s advice on Brexit. This from someone that his father described as having the worst judgement of anyone in the world. Is it a Catch 22 when you have the Donald saying you have terrible judgement and you then reference his opinion as your judgement? Sort of like the proposal to provide mental health counselling to Love Island competitors when anyone who would willingly volunteer

to participate must be a ‘the wheels turning but the hamster’s dead’ type of person.

Katie Price pled ‘definitely not guilty’ to yelling ‘are you enjoying ####ing my husband’ to her ex’s girlfriend outside the school at which she works; she really is a model parent. Several policemen in Argentina were fired after blaming mice for 1000 pounds of missing marijuana; with a story like that, what gave them away. JK Rowling has been trolled on Twitter after revealing Grindelwald and Dumbledore had a sexual relationship; ‘Dumbledore’s patronus is the Grindr logo’.

And finally, a sheep has been impregnated using fifty-year old sperm. How the Welsh celebrate their latest Grand Slam is entirely their own business. Until next week, I’m off to buy a brownie from an Argentinian mouse.

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MONOSKIERS OF THE WEEK Lulu Williams

What was your first time on a monoski like?

Fun! But pretty alien as your feet are stuck together. If you saw me ski though you’d see I do actually ski with my feet very close together so maybe not that alien.

Who are your monoski idols?

Aussie James because he rocks some serious retro garms. Also I’m pretty sure him and Elliot did Pisteurs on monos last year. Pretty rad.

What 3 ingredients makes a winning (or at least top 3) monoskier?

1) A can-do attitude 2) Strong legs 3) Some tight and bright Lycra leggings.

my mono career.

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Worst crash you’ve ever seen on a monoski?

Probably that time. The bruises on my elbows were horrific. Also here’s a photo of me crashing out big time at mono ski last year.

Best thing you saw at Monoski last year?

Phil Cole.

Do you remember anything after the end of Monoski and if so, what happened?

It was honestly one of the best days of my Have you been practicing? season/life. Things did get pretty turbo all Yes I went out for a couple of days over half day long and then in the evening it was term because the pistes were so busy and I cocos closing. Apparently I was crying didn’t want to sit in the queues.. However because I didn’t want the day to end. I it all came to a rather sticky end when me have high expectations this year. and Alex ended up at the Tete de Solaise (chasing the sun), drank a magnum of rosé How are you going to snatch the crown and then had to mono back down at 5.30. this year?

We both forgot how to mono and it was I will certainly give it my it my best shot. honestly one of the worst experiences of I was very close second place last year... but I was robbed by the one who shan’t be named. I’m also supposed to be working so I’m PRAYING my boss will give me the afternoon off to give Snowberry a chance of claiming the crown. Anything can happen.. but please Sdog!

What does the Spirit of the Monoski mean to you?

Getting pissed and getting dressed up in the best place in the world with the best people in the world.

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Elliot Stone Is it true you’ve done Pisteurs on a mono, but not on normal skis?

Yeah, me and two friends did it last season.

It was pretty crazy and I can’t say I was too confident entering it.

in New Zealand this summer which is the smallest resort ever. But I managed to find a monoski to use before work a few times, taking it in the park and down a few slushy off piste slopes.

Worst crash you’ve ever seen on a monoski?

Josh Armstead knuckling the XXL kicker What’s the secret to double monoskiing? last season looked pretty painful. He Double mono skiing needs to have a small managed to ski out in one piece though, person on the front, not somebody my size. unlike Tom Lessuire.

How do beginner monoskiers get to your levels of rad-ness in the next 3 weeks?

Get yourself a retro one piece and start sending it! Then head straight to the park!

Best thing you saw at Monoski last year?

The state of Rosé Blanche after it all finished. Loads of people dressed in 70s retro outfits, fairly sunburnt and very drunk, having an awesome time.

How was your first time on a monoski?

The first time was super funny. I ended up spending the whole time flapping my arms and sliding on my backside.

Do you remember anything after the end of Monoski and if so, what happened?

In relation to the last answer. I remember going to Cocorico but have absolutely no idea about leaving.

Who are your monoski idols?

Tom Lessuire was my idol (having won so many times) until he failed on the jump and snapped his leg. The boy needs more practice!

What 3 ingredients makes a winning (or at least top 3) monoskier?

Go fast, don’t drink too much too early and beginners luck!

Have you been practicing?

Yeah a little bit, I worked at The Remarkbles

How are you going to snatch the crown this year?

Hopefully I’ll be able to get time off work.

But I’ll just see how it all goes and enjoy the day. Hopefully it’s nice weather as well.

What does the Spirit of the Monoski mean to you?

Just enjoying the full day. Entering the race, do a few jumps and have a few beers.

vvv

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HOW TO MONOSKI Monoski: The definitive definition of defining gravity.

Prepare to have your mind blown by the most amazing machine to hit the slopes.

Imagine all the technology, innovation, and development that goes into two skis, and HALF IT. That’s right, half as many skis, with twice as many benefits.

splayed graphics are not mere brandings, these names signify the very essence, the very spirit of monoskiing.

By banging both feet into one of these large, heavy, stiff, dangerous, shapeless pieces of wood, and suiting up in your hottest pre-gortex fluro sweat suit, you automatically become a better person.

People can’t help but smile when you fly past on your feet or on your face defining gravity. Children ask their parents why they have to use two skis when they could experience the freedom of one. Anyone over the age of 50 immediately gets a flood of endorphins as they remember the exhilaration of taking a mono out for a slide. For a brief moment you lose all sense of time and space. Your body transcends the everyday directly to a hypersexualised 80’s advert.

We talked to some of Europe’s hottest monoskiers to find out more.

Elliot Tell us what it was like to finally descend pisteurs couloir on a monoski?

Monoskiing has been around for decades, but there is only one decade that has brought anything of any value into the world of snowsports today, and that is the 80’s. You might be thinking a modern parabolic composite monoski is the way to go, right? WRONG! 80’s Pintail monos play by their own rules and nobody else’s, not even their own. Just take a look at the names of some of the great boards to emerge from the golden age of monoskiing; MONO Life colours, Rossignol Liberty, Head Free Spirit, Duret Fun, Nidecker For More Fun. These brightly

According to an old off-piste guide of Val d’isere, I’m a boner-fide virtuoso.

Monoskiing Pisteurs made BASI level 4 training feel like a waste of time.

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Josh Last year you hit the XL Kicker (AKA TYRONE) in Val park on a mono. How long have you been skiing park, what’s life like as a jibby park rat?

these days, last year you decided to make an investment and get your own, how much did you pay for yours?

I’ve literally never been in the park before.

But I felt the power of the HEAD Free Spirit and just went “bing, bing” up and over.

Jez You’ve spent years hand tuning and preparing monoskis for the World Championships, tell us a bit about the love and craftsmanship that goes into repairing and maintaining these magnificent boards?

Ross Pintail Monoskis are getting so popular

I found it in a bin.

29 Generally they’re not a problem, but most of the ones we’ve seen have been mounted more than 4 times, and they’re 15 Elysées wearing ‘gilets jaunes’ held together with bubble gum and in protest. Macron’s comment, ‘You cannot dreams.

I met this old fossil of a guy and he gave me a beer, and said “if you’re ever in Annecy, let me know and we can hang out”. He never answered my calls.

cause it ‘promotes cruelty’; same could be said theirofabuse of the language.

Whatofkind apparel andEnglish accessories can be pro-environment on Monday and when optimise performance?

US Coast monoski Guard reported a giant turtle, enTuesday comes be against rising fuel prices’ You must bringing them back to life meshed in a rope holding 800Kg of cocaine is the kindlove of irrefutable logic which goes when allmilkshake messed up likeopponents, that? worth £41m; bet it was Donatello. A former down they’re like a fish with Uhhhhh... but should be deployed against those deMiss Moscow, 25, has married Malaysia’s crying Amazon and Google for tax evasion King Muhammad V, 49, after converting to who wouldn’t forego a free internet search Cammy Islam and taking the name Rihana; better for thepeople cheapest deal inshould a month Some sayonline monoskiing beof hope that heresy app doesn’t get rolled out aSundays. one-time novelty activity. What do you across the region. have to say to those people?

Indonesia has launched a ‘heresy app’ to report anyone practicing ‘unorthodox interAnd finally, Poundland’s Christmas advert Ifpretations’ you’ve had once, whyreligions; would you of pizza its recognised well, has come under fire for mocking Elton ever it again?

If you’ve had sex once, pass have my lover a bacon sandwich.

A teenager matched withdo hisitsister onIt’s Tinder; yes, The tighter and it is, depicting the faster one you why would you again? like sucking John’s advert forbrighter John Lewis, that does mean they both swiped right and go.orally relieving another sat on top of his on some big ol’ titties. It never gets old. elf yes they do live in the US. PETA has depiano; wonder if he was singing ‘Can you manded the village of Wool, derived from For more information out “How What happened when you bought your Feel the Love Tonight’.check Until next week,to I’m the Anglo-Saxon ‘welle’ meaning a water Monoski” on Youtube by Fraser Boland. own monoski? spring, change its name to Vegan Wool be- off to drink from a woolly spring.

OFF PISTE SNOW REPORT Brought to you by Henry’s Avalanche Talk www.henrysavalanchetalk.com Hoping for smooth spring snow skiing!

A high-pressure weather system is now in place over the N French Alps, bringing dry sunny conditions until the end of March The avalanche danger rating is down to 1 below 2500m and 2 in some places it is likely to remain that way until we see significant warming or new snow. There are a few slabs on high N and NW facing slopes above 2500m.

With this nice sunny weather ahead we’re hoping for lovely smooth ‘spring snow’ conditions to come into place very soon.

They’re already appearing on sunnier slopes at low altitude, but we could do with some more intense heat in the day followed by good overnight refreezes for the lovely smooth conditions to become more widespread! Fingers crossed!

Off Piste Snow & Weather: 21 - 29 March What we mean by ‘spring snow’ We’re talking about the lovely smooth, soft snow that occurs in spring after a few melt-freeze cycles. Not the thick afternoon slush or rock hard morning snow that we also find in spring! Off-piste spring snow is one of the best things that the Northern French Alps has to offer. With lift access to all slope orientations: east, south, west and then north, you can find it and have fun with little effort.

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Melt-freeze cycles Following a few successive proper ‘melt-freeze’ cycles, or after a snowfall, the top snow layer begins to form a crust that gets deeper and stronger after each melt, allowing free water to drip down and re-freeze during the night. (A melt-freeze cycle is where the snow melts during the day and then freezes at night – that’s one melt-freeze cycle). Any given ‘melt-freeze’ layer becomes stronger with each cycle of melting and freezing, due to the deeper penetration of each melt during the day.

This then adds more depth to the potential frozen layer at night.

If untouched, the top of this frozen layer is smooth and solid first thing in the morning. It softens as the day goes on as it melts in the warm sun and increased temperatures. The process starts on east facing slopes which receive the sun first.

It moves onto the south, then the west facing ones, following the sun’s movement.

(North facing slopes at 2500+ metres don’t normally get a melt freeze layer until late April, due to lack of sun).

Top tips for spring snow skiing After a couple of good melt-freeze cycles have created a solid layer on a slope, the trick is to get on that slope when the snow surface is smooth and solid with only 2 or 3 cms of soft melted snow on top. These are generally slopes that have been in the direct sunlight only for an hour or so, e.g. an east facing slope at 9 or 10 am.

After a solid melt-freeze layer has formed and there’s been a good daytime melt, it needs to freeze well the next night in order for it to be right for the next day. The ideal is a cool clear night, with a minimum of –2° C (preferably lower) at 2000 m if you’re

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going to be skiing at this altitude and above. This will allow the melted parts of the layer to freeze solid again and pretty much guarantee that it will support your weight the next day.

snow correctly for maximum enjoyment by following our advice above.

So get on the east facing slopes, which get the sun first, as soon as the lifts open at 9 am. Then you move to south facing slopes, then west. Do this right and get some of the best skiing of the season.

You need to get off those slopes when the snow surface begins to get too soft and mushy or you’ll start breaking through. It’s important not to ski these slopes when they become soft and mushy because : It’s dangerous for your knees.

The slope may become unstable due to all the melting. Then avalanches can be a problem on these sunny slopes.

You will leave nasty ruts in the snow which will ruin its quality for everyone who wants to ski it the next day.

Off-piste weather forecast for 23 - 28 March SATURDAY 23 Always good weather with a foehn wind weakening at 40/50 km / h and an isotherm 0 to 3000 meters.

SUNDAY TO THURSDAY The high pressure continues. The temperatures remain spring like reaching 9C at 2000m and OC at 3000m. The sun continues to shine.

Meteo France are on strike to protect the Bourg St Maurice weather and avalanche forecasting office.

Tip of the week Learn how to ski the lovely smooth spring

Smooth spring snow. H Schniewind photo from last April

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P E ST P U

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HOW TO NAIL THE 80s LOOK There is no denying that the 1980s were the pinnacle of ski style. With Monoski coming up, we all have an excuse to look just as fabulous as those who came before us. Let’s dive into the basics.

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The first and foremost rule of nailing this look is to throw moderation out of the window; you must be bold. Neon and clashing colours, brazen patterns and over the top features are all très bien. The more of these you can manage to tick off the better you are going to look. When on the hunt for your gear, if you see a particular item that makes you wince, that is the one you need.

It is important to understand that to look this good, sometimes practically has to take a back seat. Look at Grace in the picture to the right here, does she not look absolutely fabulous? Of course she does. But do you think she can move in that coat? Not really.

Sacrifices must be made to truly dazzle.

There is one exception to the previous statement, and that, of course, is the glorious onesie. Otherwise known as a one piece, a romper or even a super suit, nothing says retro more than one of these garish yet undeniably iconic pieces of history. Having conducted many thorough experiments with various onesies, I can confirm that they are actually surprisingly practical. For instance, when you are sat on

Borsat listening to Highway To The Danger Zone, getting pumped to smash some greens, you may indeed realise that there is no draft between your sallopettes and your coat. Comfort is now your mistress.

A crucial element to really becoming at one with the 80s style is to do right by your noggin. Head injuries didn’t exist back then and so the headband was the most popular weapon of choice. Once again, if your headband is neon and/or matches another piece of your outfit, you are in for a good time. If you are really looking to take this further then your headband needs to be not only integrated with, but totally upstaged by the holy guacamole of hairstyles: the mullet.

While not essential, accessories definitely add to your look. Bum bags are a resounding yes, so long as they are the right aesthetic, plus they are a great place to store your cassettes. Over the top moustaches are another guaranteed winner. It is key that you get your goggle/glasses choice right as this can make or break your whole thang. If you are unsure what eyewear to get, just remember; you want them to show that you like to ski fast and die young.

Once you have acquired all of the aforementioned loot, you need to obtain something that you cannot purchase: the attitude. You need to be free-spirited, sendy and above all - be out for a good time.

We are excited to be selling some rad old school jackets and glasses in the run up to Monoski. Go to www.valehco.co.uk/shop to purchase! Alternatively, head to the Blue Note Monoski Catwalk on the 4th of April.

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PRAISING SKISUS

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24TH 40

23RD Victors - Seasonaire Saturdays. Tacos & Tequila.

Le Hibou - Pancakes: 1 for €4.50 or 3 for €12

Cocorico - Après Ski Live Music: The Blazin’ Strings

Bananas - Disco/Funk/House Night w B2B DJs Rob & Oscar

Le Lodge - DJ K2 11:30pm-1:30am

Cocorico - Après Ski Live Music: Hobo Chic

Saloon - Happy hour 15-17 2 pints 6€

Blue Note - Cheap Cocktails. 22h-23.30h

Arctic - Seasonaire Wknd Breakfast: Superfood Quinoa & Oat Porridge Pot plus a Latté for 8€

Petit Danois -Live Music 5pm with The Mardy

Petit Danois - Live Music 5pm with The Jaw Bones Two, DJ Jack Igglesden 10pm

Saloon - Live music, 17.00 Big mountain

Johnny Depps, DJ PSD 10pm

Moris - Toss the Boss

Dick’s Tea Bar- Industry Night Hosted by Resident Megan (Glitterbox/house)

Doudoune- Lagom Groovy by Harry Wanne

Doudoune- Vintage Fever by Kelian Marques

Dick’s Tea Bar - Dirty Sunday hosted by Resident Marshall (Hip Hop and RnB)

27TH Arctic - Midweek Refuel: Sandwich/Salad plus a latté for 10€, swap the coffee for juice for 2€ La Folie Douce - WTF Weekly costume party Cocorico- Après Ski Live Music: Uptones Le Hibou - Wings Wednesday! Only 50c a wing Saloon - Jackattack & 3€ Joss 10 for 25€ Step Up - Jump build. Contact Marc Cossar to get involved Petit Danois -Live Music 5pm with Gallie, DJ Jack Igglesden 10pm In Town -ECOMOVE Day organised by the Vie Val d’Is with flea market, live DJ and food Fall Line - OOSC Gaper Day Moris - Live Music: Apres- Mardy Johnny Depps Evening- Wingmen Dick’s Tea Bar - After Dinner Club with Pocket Size Dave and Sophia Landgren on Violin Doudoune - Hip Hop Urban by Kelian Marques

Cocorico - Après Live M Arctic - Vinyasa Yoga C Arctic Juice. Sign up as

Signal Derby -Race from the Vallon Off-Piste area. boarders, telemarkers, sk up 7am at Les Crozets. En

Victors -Hip Hop Thur

Saloon- Live music, 17.

Petit Danois - Live Mu Pigs, DJ PSD & Madam

Moris - Live Music: Eve

Doudoune - Guest DJ

Dick’s Tea Bar - Luna T Spielmann (Funky/Tech

COCORICO - 2-4pm Happy Hour, Live Music every day from BLUE NOTE - Happy Hour with Hot Gin and Nibbles from 3 to 6pm FALL LINE - Happy Hour 3-5pm PETIT DANOIS - Happy Hour 2 for 1 on Beers and Drinks 4-5pm & 9-10pm.

BANANAS - Seasonaire Menu: 3 Courses and a beer/wine/soft drink for €20 Happy Hours 18.30-19.30 and 22.30

25TH

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In Town - Free Avalanche Safety talk in French and English at 6pm. Hut in Children’s Garden.

La Folie Douce - Discopolis Arctic - Juice Pump - Do 30 Push Ups and get 50% off Juice or Coffee Cocorico- Après Ski Live Music: Paddy James Band Saloon - BINGO! Free to play, win awesome prizes!

Vie Val d’Is - Weekly Language Exchange. Free French lesson for VVD card holders at 8pm Petit Danois - Live Music 5pm with Mullit & The Machine, DJ Jack Igglesden 10pm Moris - Live Music: Apres: Max Whitthal, Evening: The Marivaux Doudoune - Crazy Monday by Kevin Delmix Dick’s Tea Bar - Residents Megan and Marshall

28TH

Music: Les Lunettes Class at 7pm with JJ @ s spaces are limited.

m the top to the bottom of No rules, open to skiers, kwals and monoskiers. Sign ntry 15€, Live music + food.

rsdays with DJ Wanne

.00 House Party

usic 5pm with The Guinea me Electrifie B2B 10pm

ening: De La Funk

J Label VIII (Hip Hop)

26TH Cocorico - Après Ski Live Music: Wingmen

Bananas - House & Tech night DJ Max Leaver Arctic - Tag Us Tuesday: Share your Arctic experience in a post/story and get a free juice Petit Danois - Live Music 5pm with The Revolverlites, DJ Jack Igglesden 10pm Victors - Funky Tuesdays with DJ Joblime Saloon - Pocket sized Dave + Madam Electrifi Moris - Live Music: Apres- Daisy & Tom, Evening: The Blazin’ Strings About Town - Sam Box chases you around clubs with a camera.

Avaline Trax - Night Ski Touring Race to Folie Doudoune- Guest DJs: Julio & Baby Jesus by Phil Garner Dick’s Tea Bar - Techno Tuesday (Tech / House)

29TH Cocorico - Après Ski Live Music: Queens of the Snow Stage Petit Danois - Live Music 5pm with Karen & Andreas, DJ Jack Igglesden 10pm Moris - Live Music: Apres- Mullit and Machine, Evening: Uptones Saloon - Open Decks and J-bombs!

Dicks Tea Bar - After Dinner Club w Pocket Size Dave accompanied by Sophia Landgren on Violin.

Doudoune- Clubbing Night by Kelian Marques

Thursday w Nicolas h/House)

UNDERGROUND - Après Ski Tapas from 5pm LE PETIT CUISINE - Daily 12 - 3pm - Seasonaire Meal Deal VICTORS - Cocktail Hour 9-11pm LE LODGE - Happy Hour 4:30-7:30pm €4 large beer TDC Introduction to Ski Touring sessions running 25th March SALOON - 3-6pm Happy Hour 2 for 1 on beer wine and more.

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THE MONOSKI WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS

boots). The day has gone from strength to strength and now takes pride of place on the official Monoski Wikipedia Page. We caught up with him to find out about its origins.

When did you discover your love of monoskiing?

Way back in the 80s, when Nevica suits were all the fashion (not that they’re not now), and bumps were still cool.

How did the first ever WMC come about?

Where else? The pub!

If you’ve read this issue from start to finish, you’ll now have a pretty good idea of what monoskiing is and why we’re all so aggressively passionate about it. As a sport that has suggestively been described as “one ski, more pleasure”, it truly deserves its spot in the limelight. Which is where the Monoski World Championships comes in. On this day 15 years ago, a pioneer decided to bring back something that lurked only in the misty depths of the memories of old French men.

His vision: to bring into the light the gift of flight aka the Monoski. The obstacles he faced: mockery, derision and the fact that the snowsports world had moved on from violent hip swinging. But his gusto (and boxed wine) won the day and now, every April, we honour his bravery and foresight in bringing Monoskiing to this town and beyond.

This man was Mark Beattie. Armed with nothing but a sea of neon, very unwaterproof ski wear, and a dream that refused to die, he organised the very first Monoski World Championships , a competition for the trojans of the ski world (read: literally anyone with a pair of ski

Advice for first time monoskiers?

It’s all fun and games until you click the second foot in! At that point make sure you have poles in hand. Like all good sports, feel the flow.

What does Spirit of the Monoski mean to you?

The person who has the best day at the WMC is ultimately the winner and some people put so much effort in, its great.

That’s what the Spirit of the Monoski means to me.

Has Monoski changed much?

I can honestly say: no. It’s still a great day on the hill followed by a fun evening in town in loads of 80s gear with maybe a bit too much rosé involved. It did however get a lot easier to convince people to get on one after the first year or two.

Who’s your favourite to win this year?

Jono of course (you got this Jono)!

What’s the funniest thing you’ve ever seen at Monoski?

There are a couple: Julian Ball back flipping the black jump was up there. Jono’s sunburn flowers (that were still there 5 years later), or maybe just the odd stray competitor lining up for the Olympic in the morning on their own wondering if anyone else will be dressing up.

Actually, it has to be Big Stephan with a

giant Mohawk in a mankini straight lining the The Blue Note Monoski Catwalk is 44 being held on the 4th April. Come course to a disastrous end. down with your finest 80s attire and show off This year, the day will be the 10th April, the your sassiest strut. It will also act as a Bring, place, Val d’Isere Snow park, and the time, Buy and Sell where you can pick up suitable 11am. gear, or pawn yours off if you have too much (looking at you James). Prizes for the best PRE-COMPETITION walk and raffle for tickets bought at or prior If you would like to take a monoski out to to the event. practice, we have a selection, which can be taken out from Snowberry Slopeside. The COMPETITION DAY rules: The competition takes the • You will need to provide your name form of a knock-out side and a contact number. by side slalom. When the • All Monos MUST BE returned to call is made to “3-2-1, Snowberry the Monday before the event to MONOSKI!”, two mono be serviced. skiers wind their way down a • Sharing is caring people. Please only specially made gated slalom take one out for a day or two. course as fast as possible • A donation must be made to and the first to pass through Snowberry’s charity of choice. the finish line progresses • You can’t shotgun the monoski you to the next round, until just practiced on. There are only so many and one is crowned the winner. they must be shared on the day. Having said Sign up starts at 10am at that, some people do own their own, so the Park. NB: It is by no check before taking one. means necessary to compete.

You can also come along and laugh at people falling over from the bottom.

This year, Murray and his crew (the team that do the Step Up nosh) will be providing the food up at the park, which is sure to be incredible and will come with a beer or glass of wine.

AFTER PARTY

Prizegiving will take place on a podium on the snowfront, with amazing prizes for the winners and the crowning of the person who most embodies ‘The Spirit of the Monoski’.

And for the first time ever, we’re putting on an after party on the snowfront, with the legendary Norman J MBE, bringing the funkiest tunes to the stage from 6pm to 8pm. So limber up the hips on the monos before Norman’s funk and soul sounds get you two stepping to China. We’re also chuffed to have teamed up with the Vie Val d’Is who will be running the Man & Wolf Bar, keeping your thirst quenched throughout.

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Do not bring your own alcohol to the after-party stage area, it will be confiscated

by Security. Please respect the fact that we are trying to put on an awesome event and don’t litter the area, piss where you shouldn’t or get so rat-arsed that you have to be removed from the premises. We want to be given permission to have this next year so it’s vital we don’t trash either the park or the snowfront.

On that note, if you bring down a binbag of rubbish from Monoski to the bottom of the hill, you will receive two drinks tokens for the Man & Wolf Bar. 15€ Earlybird Tickets are now available to purchase either in Blue Note (ask behind the bar), or on our website www. valecho.co.uk/themonoski-world-championships. At the Blue Note Monoski Catwalk, we will have a list of everyone who has bought a ticket and you’ll need to come and pick up a wristband.

Tickets will also be available on the day but will be more expensive.

The Monoski World Championships and After Party are being generously supported

by Planks, Man & Wolf Beer, Avancher Hotel, Snowdrone, Snowberry and The Vie Val d’Is. We are still looking for more sponsorship!

Please get in touch (contact@valecho.co.uk) if you would like to support this event. We’re also looking for a couple of volunteers for various jobs that need doing throughout the day. In return a few hours of your time, you’ll get a free ticket and 2 drinks tokens.

Thanks also to The Pisteurs, Park shapers and The Mayor’s Office for their support.

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NEW STYLE

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Sur rendez-vous à partir de 14h

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Remise Carte Vie Val d’Is

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TALK OF THE TOWN I Am My Own DJ

Big respect to this guy whoever he may be.

After seeing him in Danois perched against a wall with his headphones on, he was then spotted again in Saloon doing the same.

Was he on the phone? Was he learning French via a podcast? I had to know but luckily it wasn’t hard to get him to give me a sample. The answer? Heavy Psytrance.

Boys Night Out

Wasef had a big out night in Dicks recently with his mate Olly. When he tried to reminisce the next day, Olly was absolutely sure that at no point was he in Dicks that night. Wasef however, came prepared to win this argument; he had photo evidence.

Unfortunately this is not Olly, Wasef’s friend and colleague of the entire season. This is Jase who also can’t remember the details of the night.

Know When To Leave

THEY’RE HERE

You’ve been waiting all season for this time and it is finally here. What you ask? The first marmot sighting. The sleepy boi was seen over Fornet way however was not looking his best after such a long sleep so avoided the camera.

Russian Gastro

A couple from a luxury chalet would like to apologise for the super strength Russian gastro going around resort currently. Their guests brought it over with them and they have been battling ever since to contain the most recent Russian nerve agent attack.

Some say that Cooper doesn’t actually have accommodation which would make sense after falling asleep in Fall Line on two separate occasions last week.

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SPORT Shown at Le Petit Danois:

FOOTBALL

Monday 25th March England v Czech Republic 8.45pm

Saturday 23rd March Georgia v Switzerland 3pm Gibraltar v Ireland 6pm Spain v Norway 8.45pm

Tuesday 26th March Ireland v Georgia 8.45pm Norway v Sweden 8.45pm

Sunday 24th March: Wales v Slovakia 3pm San Marino v Scotland 6pm Northern Ireland v Belarus 8.45pm

Sport also shown at The Fall Line, Blue Note, Moris Pub and Le Hibou.

SEPARATED AT BIRTH

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TECHNO

TUESDAY INFO@DICKSTEABAR.COM

+33 6 51 39 99 81