Canadian Ski Quest

Powder

2012-01-17T22:46:00.000-08:00

We finally have some snow worth talking about. It back to the Red Mountain Norm today. Tracks filling in between runs. I had the pleasure to ski with Red Mountain General Manager Erik Kalacis and Snowsports School director Luc Belanger, along with Rupert Taylor. I was on my snowboard, so I have to say thanks to all of them for their patience.

Simon in the Canadian Open

2012-01-16T16:11:00.000-08:00

My son Simon, 7 years old, skied Links Line for the first time this season last week. I guess he was happy with his run because he then asked if he could enter the competition (The Canadian Open Freeskiing Championship). "No problem"says dad, and I signed him up. He was the youngest competitor. I took him out of school last week for an afternoon so that he could have three or four practice runs. The first one was to be a "look at it run" skiing it two or three turns at a time. After the first turns he decided to ski it all. Which he did, at the bottom he asked to go in for a hot chocolate. I suggested that he ski it again to which he replied "I don't need to, I have my line". I went with it and this run is the third time of the season he skied it. Yes I was a bit of a nervous parent watching.

Canadian Ski Quest Wendy Week

2012-01-06T07:12:00.000-08:00

The skiing on ledges has been fantastic this week. Showing fine form are Canadian Ski Quest skiers, tomato head Keith Boxer and Roger Foot.

New Years Eve at Big White

2012-01-01T21:51:00.000-08:00

Ski Salmo one day, Big White the next! Talk about going from one world to another. There is skiing at both places, and that is pretty much where the similarity ends. I was a bit culture shocked by the crowds and infrastructure at first, but managed to relax once I realized that everyone around me was pretty chilled.

Salmo Ski Instructors

2011-12-30T22:54:00.000-08:00

A very successful CSIA Level One Course for Salmo Ski Hill. Top Photo is Linsey Grey in fine form. Group photo Newly certified Ski Pros: L-R Kelly Humphreys, Levi Smith, Steve Ramsbottom, Levi Huser, Mark Impey, Linsey Grey, Kimberley Pegg, and Darya Huser.

Situational Teaching

2011-12-29T21:44:00.000-08:00

The conditions at Ski Salmo today were probably the most challenging I have ever had to deal with on a CSIA course. The new snow we had on Day One melted slightly yesterday and then froze solid last night. Because it was so warm the groomer could not get out, so today we had snow that was once wet and tracked up freeze solid, tracks and all.

We made the most of it, and worked out how we would teach in a situation like this. There were quite a few actual beginers skiing, we got in there and offered our instructional help. It is a new concept I have come up with: "Reality CSIA Course Conducting".

The good news is that it is dumping snow right now, heavily. I am guessing there is 20 cm on the ground, it started about three hours ago and it is still going strong. It should be a great Red Mountain and Salmo ski day tomorrow.

CSIA Level 1 at Salmo Ski Hill

2011-12-28T21:24:00.000-08:00

Today was Day two of the level one course I am running at Salmo Ski Hill. We had quite a bit of new snow, unfortunately most of it fell at a temperature of about plus 2 C. The snow was very heavy, conditions were challenging. However my group made the most of it, I heard a lot of comments but not a single complaint.

At least it is setting us up with a good base.

Photos are of Steve Ramsbottom from Nelson, and Gayle Bourke-Shepherd from Australia embracing the Level One challenge.

Salmo Ski Hill

2011-12-27T18:35:00.000-08:00

I am running a Level One Instructors course at Salmo Ski Hill this week. Salmo is a one Tbar hill, it has a small day-lodge, about 10 runs and it is such a peaceful place to ski. The place always surprises people in a positive way, the runs are long, staff are great, and the snow today was superb. It was the first day I used my new 2012 Fischer RC4's (not a scratch on them). The sense of pride of a club having its own hill is something that corporate mountains can not replicate (not in my experience anyway).

Girls Day at Red Mountain

2011-12-23T19:13:00.000-08:00

I skied today with my daughter Isabelle and her friend Charlotte.

The snow that we have is good, we just need more of it. We skied Paradise most of the day. Ruby Tuesday is turning into a bump run, good bumps. The girls ripped it up.

Red Mountain Crowd Control

2011-12-20T15:51:00.001-08:00

Red Mountain is back to its normal crowd problems, there are none!

Red Mountain Day 2

2011-12-18T17:46:00.000-08:00

Beer Belly was open today, and great. Day two of operation and conditions were better than day 1. It seems the runs are improving as they are being skied. Still early conditions though, I could have used my new skis today as I did not hit anything, but we still need another dump or two for me to be at full confidence.

This video clip is Jay Maloney showing that he can spin off pretty much anything.

Red Mountain Opening Day

2011-12-17T21:03:00.001-08:00

A great start to the Red Mountain 2012 season. Conditions were quite a bit better than I expected them to be. Still definitely early season but I had a great day with the Freeski Academy athletes and with Isabelle and Simon in the afternoon.

Isabelle and Simon had a big day, skiing Silverlode all morning on their own and then with me on Paradise all afternoon.

Top photo is of the Hillis family once again securing first chair of the season. Bottom photo is of two satisfied Red Mountain customers.

Red Mountain promo

2011-12-06T21:33:00.000-08:00

Click the link below for Red Mountains latest promo video.

http://youtu.be/WozPQcSVSPI

49 North Ski Resort

2011-11-26T19:58:00.000-08:00

I am at 49 North this weekend for a training camp with the Red Mountain Academy. They are off to such a good start down here. This area gets the same weather systems as Red Mountain but they always seem to be open earlier as they don't need as much snow as us to open. This place is like a bigger version of the Paradise side of Granite Mountain. Long runs, it is a nice place to let your skis run.

As you can see from the photos the snow conditions are excellent. I skied all day today and didn't even see a rock much less hit one.

CSIA Course Conductor Training

2011-11-23T21:54:00.000-08:00

Early season conditions at Lake Louise were outstanding. Skiing mid week is better, no crowds as you can see in the photos.

I skied with Sun Peaks Ski School Director Vincent Lafontaine (red pants) and Canadian Ski Quest instructor Mike Manara (in black).

For me skiing with guys like Mike and Vincent is the best way to start the season. It is so inspiring to be skiing with guys of this caliber for my first runs of the year.

Sharp Skis are Good Skis

2011-11-20T17:02:00.000-08:00

I had my skis tuned by Mike at Mike Lindsey Ski Services. Mike is a former Canadian National Team Ski Technician. He made my day yesterday. What a difference a professional tune makes.

CSIA Course Conductor Training

2011-11-19T16:37:00.000-08:00

This is Norman Kreutz From Silver Star getting back in tune with his skis.

Today was day 1 of CSIA Course Conductor training at Lake Louise. Conditions on piste were perfect. The snow was firm but very easy to find grip on.

It was so nice to let the skis run and to feels my skis work. I am very happy with my knee, I really didn't think about it and did not feel it either. Great start to the season.

Winter in Banff

2011-11-18T14:26:00.001-08:00

It is nice to see winter in a town that make it look so good. I am really looking forward to skiing at Lake Louise tomorrow.

First Turns are Powder Turns

2011-11-17T18:29:00.001-08:00

I am in Banff now, I am here for the CSIA Pre Season Training. On the way here I stopped at the Kootenay Pass and had a quick tour. It was fantastic, just like Red Mountain in mid winter. My first turns were powder turns, what a great start to the season.

First Run of the Year

2011-11-13T09:19:00.000-08:00

I just got back from Blackjack cross country area. My first run of the 2012 season (X Country run anyway).

It is one of those days that would have been epic had it been mid winter. It snowed all night and cleared just before the sun came up. I was the first one out but not the only one judging by how many cars I passed on my way home. I imagine Blackjack will be grooming the trails, we definitely have enough snow.

Rossland Weather

2011-11-12T18:58:00.000-08:00

Photo of the day:

The weather is great here but it just keeps snowing!

Old Glory Hike

2011-10-12T13:27:00.000-07:00

Mike Flood, Chris Sutherland and I took a hike up Old Glory last week with the kids from the Red Mountain Academy. Old Glory is the glorious big peak that you can see as you ski from the top of the Motherlode Chair towards Rino's Run. I am sure that once the clouds clear we will see snow on it. It was cold and rainy in Rossland yesterday.

Pre Season Training

2011-10-11T06:49:00.000-07:00

Weekend training with athletes from The Red Mountain Academy. This was after running up the sandhill several times.

Golf Champion

2011-10-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

You know winter is approaching when a bunch of Ski Instructors get together for a seriously fun golf tournament. The CSIA NDC "Closed Open" was held at the Quail Golf Course in Kelowna. I was teamed up with Eamon Doerty (in red shirt) and brothers Grant and Don Brown.

Thanks to Eamon's spectacular drives, the Brown brothers precision and confidence building abilities, and my ultra high handicap-WE WON!

Presenting the trophy is CSIA past president Norm Crerar. Photo by Marie-Cat Bruno.

New Office for Canadian Ski Quest

2011-09-29T15:06:00.001-07:00

Big News...

Canadian Ski Quest has moved Downtown. We are now located at 1936 Queen Street. It is the house behind Ross Vegas.

This is a nice move for our business and also a great improvement to our house. As in we suddenly have room to play in our place and I am not constantly worried about the kids making paper airplanes out of someones arrival details.

Summer days

2011-08-23T10:14:00.000-07:00

We are into full on summer weather in Rossland. It is great as long as you are close to water.

Red Deer Water Ramp

2011-08-13T11:34:00.000-07:00

We are in Red Deer for a family reunion. I took some time to check out the Red Deer Water Ramp. It could be a good training opportunity for the Red Mountain Academy. I did not get to do it myself....

Red Mountain in Summer

2011-08-09T13:11:00.000-07:00

I ran up to the top of Red this morning, my goal was to do it without stopping, which I did, phew.
There was an abundance of huckle berrys near the trail, according to some Rossland old timers, this is a sure sign of a big snow year to come.
It was pretty lonely up there, I waited around the sign for a free ski tip but the service was just not there.

Manager Search

2011-08-08T15:35:00.000-07:00

Canadian Ski Quest is hiring a General Manager. The deadline for Applications is this Friday. I am looking forward to going through the process, so far I am very happy with the quality of applicant. There should be an announcement within two weeks.

Raid the North Team Wild Rose

2011-08-03T08:50:00.000-07:00

While hiking up Old Glory on Friday we met Team Wild Rose who finished in second place the the Raid the North wilderness endurance event. These guys are close to the finish line here, and are on day SIX of the event. Talk about inspirational, they stopped to chat, were relaxed and looked totally fresh. I did not notice the numbers on their chest's at first and I assumed they were just another group of riders taking on the Seven Summits Trail. They really looked like the had just started. Definitely a standard of fitness to aspire to.

Latest Old Glory Run Ever

2011-07-29T18:35:00.000-07:00

Kieren Gaul, from Big Red Cats, and I got the job done today. Nine hours worth. I am exhaysted now and really happy. Unfortunately I had some trouble with my Helmet Cam and did not catch any video, but I had a very memorable top to bottom nonstop run.

View up the North Chute from the bottom, it took an hour to hike up again.

Kieren, still skiing strong near the bottom.

This is me at the start of the day, I think I looked a little different 9 hours later.

This is me on turn two, real steep.

Old Glory is Skiable

2011-07-26T16:04:00.000-07:00

I finally got a view of Old Glory today.

I rode up to Strawberry pass on my motorcycle, the weather looked perfect. And I got soaked! What a miserable ride back to Rossland.

So I am going to ski it, I just need actual summer weather and a partner.

Old Glory Failed Reconnaissance

2011-07-26T08:44:00.000-07:00

My plan is to hike and ski the North Face of Old Glory this week. Problem is the weather is terrible, more like October rather than July. Yesterday Simon and I drove up to take a look at Old Glory from the highway. We could not see a thing, so instead had a father/son hike to Cookie Jar Cabin.

Another problem I am having is finding a friend to commit to the adventure. Everyone seems a little intimidated by it.

Summer Training Inspiration

2011-07-19T15:37:00.000-07:00

I was in my hometown of Vernon this past weekend. I had a chance to Mountain Bike with Canadian Ski Quest Pro Darcy Tevelyan. This photo was taken on the first climb, from here we went down to the lake and then back up to the same elevation. Darcy was being nice to me, I felt like I could keep up, but he certainly had an easier time chatting on the climbs than I did. Thanks for doing most of the talking Darcy.

Summer Skiing at Mt. Hood

2011-07-07T16:06:00.001-07:00

I am at Mt. Hood with some athletes from the Red Mountain Academy. Not coaching them, they are all in the terrain park. I have been skiing with Isabella and Simon. It is a proud Dad time as they are just stoked to be skiing and both are turning really well.

The summer skiing here is really good, it seems to be bigger than it was in 1994, the last time I was here. There are two high speed quad chairs and one main run. The run is long. There are also a lot of training camps on, racers, freeskiers and snowboarders from all over North America. These camps seem to shut down at about 11:00, which is nice because then their reserved lanes open up, leaving smooth snow behind.

30/30 Peace

2011-05-14T21:56:00.000-07:00

I had a slow hike up Red today, skiing seemed out of place on a day like today. It was almost like a summer day in Rossland. It was 17C at the mountain but everything was still fully covered. The torrents of water that were under the snow are now on top of the snow, I had to weave my way around them on the way up, seasons are changing fast. It was a very peaceful feeling at the top, I guess knowing that this is day 30 had something to do with it. This challenge was a good thing for me to do, it definitely expanded my horizons, happy to have done it. I am still looking at doing the Seven Summits trail next week. For tomorrow, I will be on my bike.

29/30 Think I am Going to Make It

2011-05-13T15:30:00.001-07:00

Day 29: This daily skiing has become part of my routine. Tomorrow is the official last day, but I plan to continue because I want to finish with something big, like the Seven Summits Trail. I can not do this until Monday as I expect it will take about eight hours. The cross country at Black Jack is still good but many trails like the one below are starting to develop dead ends.

28/30 Going Fast

2011-05-13T15:21:00.000-07:00

I took a short hike up Red yesterday, blogger seemed to be down so I am just getting it up now.

There is still full coverage on Red, but it is going fast. I could hear raging torrents of water under the snow pack.

27/30 Surprise Cabin

2011-05-11T21:41:00.000-07:00

I went for the cardio workout today up at Strawberry Pass, I was one of two skiers out today. The cross country is really good at the right time of the day, which I hit. I had about 1 cm of soft snow over a firm base. This is about 15 minutes out of Rossland and it is a different world right now. Just about all of the snow has gone in town, grass is growing.

I went to the surprise cabin. It is called that because someone has installed a Grizzly bear head in the wood shed which is not noticable until you are in there.
The bear that left the tracks behind yesterday would have looked just like this one only with a worse attitude.

26/30 Grizzly Tracks

2011-05-10T23:30:00.000-07:00

A bit of excitement for me today: on my hike up Mt. Kirkup I came across some grizzly bear tracks that must have been very recent. I assumed they were grizzly tracks due to the elevation I was at and because of the size of them. When I first saw them from about 20 meters away I assumed they were snowshoe tracks because of the size of them, and thought "cool someone else is up here". They must have been less than 10 hours old because they were still detailed and the snow was melting fast yesterday afternoon ( I was out quite early this morning). I confirmed that they were grizzly, not black bear, tracks from a tracking guide book that I have.

I had hiked up Mt. Kirkup for about 45 minutes when I came across them, I was right on the treeline. I took these photos, ripped the skins off my skis and got out of there. Thankfully, no sighting.

25/30 Mt. Crowe

2011-05-09T21:30:00.001-07:00

I had a very pleasant and exhilarating afternoon ski on Mt. Crowe from Strawberry Pass. The snow was heavy but consistent and quite easy to ski. I was pretty happy with the tracks, unfortunately I could not get an angle with my camera to show them from the top. It was a good long run that I would have loved to have done a second and third time. Too bad Big Red Cats are not still operating.

24/30 Family Day

2011-05-08T21:20:00.001-07:00

Mothers Day, we had a family day in Kootenay style, Snow shoeing in the morning, and golf in the afternoon, both were good. Dawn and the kids snowshoed while I skied. My guess is that the Paulson trails have another 3 weeks in them. The interesting thing about today it that I was not the only skier out there.

23/30 Sunspot Cabin

2011-05-08T10:10:00.000-07:00

I Had connection problems yesterday so here is the blog from Saturday. It was raining all day in Rossland, a heavy Whistler type rain. I was definitely not inspired to go out, but had a hope that it would be snowing at Strawberry Pass. It definitely was, the road was covered with white, I had to get back into winter driving skills. There is still so much snow there.
The sun actually came out.This photo was taken on the way up.

Of course the sun came out at Sunspot cabin. This is the on the Seven Summits epic bike trail. It gave me an idea for the final day of me challenge, to ski the entire length of the seven summits. I am thinking about it.

22/30 Minimum Ski

2011-05-06T14:50:00.001-07:00

No time! It is the life of a parent. I just ran out of time to do anything significant with my skiing. Today I did the minimum I set for myself which is the T-bar top. Too bad because the snow was quite nice. The hard ice surface I skied yesterday morning had turned to about 2 cm of corn snow on hard base. I was on my snowboard and really enjoyed it, the snow was forgiving enough that even I felt comfortable making short turns.

21/30 Early Morning Granite Mountain

2011-05-05T21:39:00.000-07:00

I woke up this morning at about 6:30. It looked like it would rain soon. So Betsy and I decided we had better get it done right away.

I got just to the point where Main Run gets interesting before having to turn back to be in time to walk Isabelle and Simon to school.

Very consistent sheet ice all the way back to the car park.

20/30 Paulson Cross Country Ski Area

2011-05-04T20:10:00.000-07:00

The Paulson Cross Country Ski Area is 30 km north of Rossland and is run by the Castlegar Cross Country Ski Club. I have live here for 14 years and I am somewhat embarrassed to say that today was my first time skiing there. This has been a bonus of taking on this challenge, exposure to new experiences. As I was skiing today the the thought that kept crossing my mind was "I just can't believe I have not been here before". I am discovering my own backyard.

The area is quite extensive, I skied about 15 km today and really only skied a small portion of the area. I got a bit more than I bargained for. I committed to a 15 km loop which is feasible for me, but the snow got softer and softer as the day warmed up and as I got further and further from the car. The skiing got a lot more difficult just when I was getting more tired. It was a big workout and I expect to sleep well tonight.

19/30 Red Mountain Night Ski

2011-05-03T21:52:00.000-07:00

Today was a day that just got away from me. I forgot about a Rossland Skatepark association meeting at 6:45, so my planed evening ski turned into a night ski. I started hiking at 8:00 and reached the top of Red at 8:53. It was great to be up there at that time. The top photo is the lights of Trail, it did not come out of course, but it was quite beautiful.

I skied down War Eagle and lower Red Towers. I expanded my skiing horizons tonight. The snow conditions were definitely the most challenging I have ever skied. The crust was about 4 cm thick with little supporting snow underneath it. Jump turns all the way, and it was imperative to land each turn dead on center. I loved it! It took me 17 minutes to get down Red Mountain.

18/30 Strawberry Pass

2011-05-02T22:03:00.001-07:00

The weather in Rossland deteriorated all day, it was quite nice in the morning but it steadily progressed to constant rain through the afternoon. 6:00 PM and I still had not been out. My best bet was to head up to Strawberry Pass, also known as Nancy Greene Pass, and hope for snow. I got it, it was snowing lightly up there and I stayed dry. I skied up for about an hour and got back to the car just as it was getting dark.
This photo is of Cookie Jar Cabin, no shortage of snow at all. We just have to find a way to get it to Australia.

17/30 The Last Skier in the World

2011-05-01T20:29:00.000-07:00

Well today was the first day where I can say the mountain biking might have been better. I could not get out until 2:30, not a good time to start spring skiing. As I was heading out everyone it seemed was either doing yard work or they were on bikes. I am sure I was the only one going skiing. I felt as if I was the last skier to exist in the world.

I slogged up Mt. Kirkup and slogged back down it as well, it was so slow. Must try to get out earlier!

16/30 Simon's Glory Moment

2011-04-30T22:50:00.000-07:00

I had Isabelle and Simon today, so they were forced to participate in my challenge again. I hiked and snowboarded Red Mountain while they took turns on the GT Racer. This video clip is Simon's Glory moment, he finally had the opportunity to stick it to his sister, notice he seems quite happy as he is passing the camera. I mentioned to him at the bottom that he lost his passenger. He was glowing; He said "yeah, I meant to do that."

15/30 Results Can Come Anytime Now......

2011-04-29T21:26:00.000-07:00

Another day of Cross Country today, just me and Betsy at Black Jack. Betsy's fitness seems to be improving, but it is hard to say for myself, so far I just feel more tired.
Gibbard's Cabin
Last light at the very peak of Red Mountain

14/30 The Never Ending Winter

2011-04-28T19:47:00.000-07:00

We woke up this morning to what would have been a very exciting event had it happened in early November.

The new snow did not stop my friend Pat Hinds from his running commitment, it seems my may be in weather condition denial.

I hiked up Sally's Alley this evening, we can only wish conditions were this good in November.

13/30 Mt. Kirkup

2011-04-27T21:19:00.001-07:00

I had the time to be a bit more adventurous today and hiked Mt. Kirkup from the highway. A slow slog through the forest at the bottom was rewarded as I moved into the sub alpine. The snow turned from heavy spring to winter lightness conditions at the top. What a great place to be. It was turn after turn of gratefulness for me.

12/30 Black Jack Again

2011-04-26T22:48:00.001-07:00

Cross Country Skiing is definitely a different workout than touring or down hill. I woke up this morning with lactic acid filled arms and just a general core tiredness.

I told my friend Vic Buehler about my exploits and as he always does, he joined me for round two today. Thanks for the push and the company Vic.

11/30 Black Jack Cross Country Ski

2011-04-25T21:56:00.000-07:00

We got back from Spokane at about 6:00 PM. It is nice to have the Canadian spring time daylight hours, I still had enough daylight for a session at Black Jack. I was out for an hour and set a good workout pace, I returned home adequately tired.

The best thing about this type of challenge, and one of my motivations for taking it on, is that it gets me out. Normally it would not have occurred to me to head out cross country skiing at 7:00 in the evening, but I did and it was the best part of my day. It was so good that I might actually do it again tomorrow. It is a good transition into the mountain biking season.

10/30 Mt. Spokane

2011-04-24T20:54:00.000-07:00

I am in Spokane this weekend with the family. To keep my 30/30 plan going, I got up at 5:30 and drove 45 minutes to Mt. Spokane, my first time there.

Nice little ski area, steeper than what I have been told.

Unlike yesterday, my timing happened to be just right. I hiked this face and went way to the skiers right. The snow was perfectly smooth but solid as a rock on the way up. But by the time I came down, the top 1/2 cm of so had turned to slush creating perfect edge grip. It was a great run!

9/30 Missed it by 30 Minutes

2011-04-23T21:03:00.001-07:00

Another run at Red Mountain today with Isabelle and Simon. I used snowshoes and my board today. This was a challenge as I was out about half an hour too late for the crust to be set solid and half an hour to early for it to have melted. So I was riding through breakable crust. This highlighted my Snowboarding skill deficiencies significantly, excellent entertainment for the kids.

Photo by Isabelle

8/30 April 22 Day One of Spring Skiing at Red Mountain

2011-04-22T20:47:00.000-07:00

I had Isabelle and Simon with me today, so it was another quick run up the face of Red. I hiked while they played in the snow.

Today was the first real day of what I would call Spring Skiing. It was hot. Since I had first tracks it was nice but it is was the sort of snow that would have been difficult had a lot of people been skiing.

7/30 Great Skiing but the Snow Just WON'T STOP

2011-04-21T20:01:00.000-07:00

More snow at Red Mountain, about 10 cm of good quality POW. One of the challenges I thought I was taking on with this project would be looking for snow, this part is actually too easy.

I skinned up to the top of Center Star, the run underneath Motherlode Chair. It was just like having first tracks in February, but without the chairlift hecklers.

6/30 Got the Job Done

2011-04-20T17:50:00.001-07:00

I was a bit short of time today. But I did manage a quick skin up to the top of the T-bar, this is my self imposed minimum. The short radius turns I got in though were the highlight of my day.

5/30 Kootenay Pass

2011-04-19T20:38:00.000-07:00

I drove back from Fernie to Rossland today, so another opportunity to ski at Kootenay Pass. I had to pick Isabelle up from dance so time was limited. I had an hour to hike up as far as I could. So I chose not to waste valuable minutes changing into my ski gear (except for my avi gear of course), I've seen lots of people at Red Mountain skiing in jeans so....

It's April and I had one of my best runs of the season, one of those runs that involve involuntary gasps of exhilaration. The conditions up high right now are just superb.

After thought: Jeans and powder do not go together! Powder sticks to jeans, don't do it, even if it means an extra two turns.

4/30 Fernie All by Myself

2011-04-18T17:05:00.000-07:00

I am in Fernie for the NONSTOP Course Directors wrap up meeting, this is an annual event for me. Important stuff, but meetings like this certainly are a challenge for 10 outdoors oriented people who commit to be inside for 9 hours. Thankfully I have my challenge going on, this got me out to Fernie Alpine Resort at 6:30 AM. I hiked with my Snowboard to the top of the Elk Chair. Fernie closed yesterday, but it looks like it could keep going for a long time yet. I usually ski Fernie in December and have probably skied this run over 200 times. In December it is narrow, crowded, barely covered with man-made ice, and is rock and stick strewn. Today it was empty, totally covered, and topped off with 1cm of overnight fluff. An easy run, but it definitely made my indoor time more bearable today.

3/30 Kootenay Pass

2011-04-17T17:55:00.000-07:00

I have just finished the drive to Fernie, I am here for the NONSTOP Course Directors wrap up meeting. So today to fulfil my challenge I stopped at Kootenay Pass. It was a mild winters day up there the bonus being the snow was from mid winter.

The track up from the car park.

This was my high point of climbing. The car park is that open area in the distance. What a great run I had, there was about 15 cm of new good quality snow, I had the whole place to myself. Great day!

I could not get any action or track shots because it started snowing heavily just after I put the camera away.

2/30 Fresh Heavy Tracks

2011-04-16T18:54:00.000-07:00

I made it to the top of Red Mountain today. It snowed last night and on and off through the day. The snow here on towers looks pretty good, but it was actually quite heavy, but about 20 cm deep. I am sure at Paradise level the snow would have been fantastic.

30 Slides in 30 Days

2011-04-15T19:25:00.000-07:00

Mark's Spring Project:

April 15 2011.

My self imposed challenge: To ski everyday for the next 30 days. The skiing might happen at a ski area, might be cross country, usually will be touring, and might even be snowboarding.

I hope to accomplish two things with this: 1) get back into the Canadian Ski Quest BLOG and 2) keep up my fitness and ensure that I get out everyday.

One challenge is that I will not always be around Rossland, a Spokane weekend with the family comes to mind. The other challenge will be around Day 20, I imagine I will have a bit of work to get to snow on some days. But game on....

DAY 1/30
The snow at Red Mountain is still 100%. I skinned up Red with my dog Betsy. Fresh tracks on Back Trail through consistent corn snow. Good Start.

Jonathan Campagna Level 4

2011-03-07T22:41:00.000-08:00

We have just had our mid-late season staff party tonight. What a great night. Jonathan just passed his level 4, so of course his head needed to be shaved (you know to keep him in his place) he was complaining that his helmet felt tight. We waited for the opportune toilet moment and then pounced.

Great vibe at Red this season, Thanks to everyone at NONSTOP for making this happen.

January at Red-its all Ours

2011-01-05T20:41:00.000-08:00

The Wendy Canadian Ski Quest week continues, while I was skiing with the Freeski Academy. The mountain is very quiet this week, We had the slopes to ourselves most of the time.
This photo with the sticks in the foreground does not do the conditions justice, the coverage is excellent. This is Roger Foot in red. Behind Roger is Peter Frew, my guess is Wendy is taking "back to basics" to the extreme and that Peter is just a good student.

Wendy McIntrye-Super Coach

2011-01-04T22:10:00.000-08:00

This photo sums up the consequences of skiing with Canadian Ski Quest Pro Wendy McIntyre.

Canadian Ski Quest Wendy Week

2011-01-03T20:38:00.000-08:00

Canadian Ski Quest Week One with Wendy McIntyre started today with the usual suspects:
Paul Egan, Mark Impey, Peter Parrot, Wendy, Peter Frew, Gayle Bourke-Sheppard, and Roger Foot.

Top Four Reasons to Ski Red Mountain pre Christmas

2010-12-23T21:19:00.000-08:00

Red Mountain Academy Racer Una Trivanovic took some time out to cross train with the Freeskiers today.

Aanika Ruutopold in Powderfeilds.

Chazz Jonard on Booty's run: This was last run of the day, snow still incredible.

Red Mountain Freeski Academy Coach Neill Ross-Ross, enjoying the pow on last run.

Soltice Training Day

2010-12-21T21:23:00.000-08:00

Training day with the Red Mountain Freeski Academy. We had about 20 cm overnight, just enough to be able to push the limits. We have a bit of an international flavor this year...

Oliver Wrinch from the UK

George Hogarth all the way from Rossland

Gonzallo Barros all the way from Chilie

Vinz Keller from Rossland via Kimberley

Vinz Keller 360

Ski Instruction vs Free Ski Coach

2010-11-30T17:28:00.000-08:00

I am coaching the Red Mountain Freeski Academy this year. In this video clip I explain the subtle differences between a ski Instructing approach to skill development vs a coaching approach. It was a bit of a transition for me but I think I'm there.

More snow?!? sigh Alright...

2010-11-30T09:01:00.000-08:00

Hey everyone, Brent Hahn here. Well, more snow here in Rossland. The works crew has broken out the heavy machinery for snow removal, which I think is a good sign. The caption on the van window reads 'YAY WINTER', but the snow is just too light and fluffy for properly writing in... aww shucks!! More winter fun updates to come.

Early Season Skiing, Lake Louise

2010-11-27T19:48:00.000-08:00

I was in Lake Louise earlier this week for CSIA Course Conductor training. Beautifully cold, see photo, it was a one run at a time day. On the plus side, the crowds were down.

Winter in Banff

2010-11-16T17:09:00.000-08:00

I am in Banff today for NONSTOP Lead Instructor training. Below is Jens Mende, Lead Instructor from the Fernie Program and Anna Steckle, Lead Instructor from the Banff Program, on Banff avenue. The NONSTOP Lead Instructors meet every year at this time to prepare for the training of the NONSTOP pros, which is happening this week for the Banff crew. The NONSTOP instructional team has a lot of depth to it this winter.

Winter has arrived in Banff, all is white and it was exhilerating to get back into winter driving.

Snow in Rossland-it Counts

2010-11-12T09:04:00.000-08:00

We did receive our first snowfall last night, nice to see it but i don't think it will actually stay around at town level anyway.

Snowing!!!

2010-11-11T21:17:00.000-08:00

I started snowing about 2 hours ago, and this one looks like it will stick. I will post photos in the morning. YEEEHAW!!!!!

Snow at Cookie Jar Cabin

2010-11-08T13:22:00.000-08:00

We went for a walk in the snow on Sunday to the Cookie Jar cabin on the Nancy Greene pass, just out of Rossland. It was pouring rain in Rossland and we hoped to get out of it into more inspirational snow. We did get to the snowline-just. It snowed the entire time we were there, heavy wet stuff. I guess that these photos were taken at the same elevation as mid Granite Mountain.

Welcome Back to the Canadian Ski Quest Blog

2010-11-02T10:26:00.000-07:00

My Friend Paul Egan suggested I get back into the blog, so here it is Paul-an update on what is happening in and around Red Mountain and Rossland for the 2011 Season.My main focus this fall has been training for the Red Mountain Freeski Academy. The above photo was taken on Sunday (Oct 31) and is of Jay Maloney, on the first rail of the season. We drove up to the Nancy Greene Summit, with the rail to get in some early season sliding.

We are running 2-3 times per week. This shot was taken last Tuesday, our goal was to run from the High School to the snowline. It was easier than we thought, this was well below the bottom of Sally's Alley. Winter is close!
The Ski Academy, Hiking Old Glory, in September!

NONSTOP Powder

2010-03-11T14:58:00.001-08:00

It started snowing at about 6:00 this morning and Red Mountain just got better and better through the day. The last runs of the NONSTOP program turned into a bit of a free for all. A powder induced inspiration.

Adam Gordon, Powder Inspired Jump.

Aiden Powell making like a snow ghost.

Luke Harcus: In un-faultable form.

CANADIAN SKI QUEST BLOG CATCH UP

2010-03-09T20:23:00.000-08:00

I have been teaching the NONSTOP program for the past two weeks. This is the final push towards the CSIA level 2 for most of the participants. We are focused on developing teaching skills but at the same time we are definitely taking advantage of the good ski conditions we have had as of late. We have had some new snow, about 10 cm and this has refreshed Red Mountain.

Aiden Powell, had a bit of a chairlift/ski pole incident today.

Adam Gordon staying in his rythm on the steepest, narrowest part of Oil Can.

Jon Mart enjoying the new snow.

NONSTOP Progression

2010-03-02T20:20:00.000-08:00

I am back with the NONSTOP Group this week. Great to be back, and great to see the progression of the group over the past three weeks.

The conditions at the moment are a bit challenging, we have had some warm weather and this has caused the runs on the Paradise side to become icy. We made our way over to Red Mountain today, much better conditions there. Aside from the BC High School Skiing Championships that are going on this week there is hardly anyone skiing.

This is Denis Van Kampen. I told him before lunch to imagine he was skiing while holding two glasses of water. After the lunch break he took it upon himself to take the real challenge. He sure showed me-he actually skied all the way to Paradise Chair, including taking a jump, without spilling a drop.
Charlie Elwell ripping up Jumbo
Tom Rigby demonstrating turning of the lower body.

49 Degrees North

2010-03-01T07:27:00.000-08:00

Canadian Ski Quest traveled to 49 Degrees North on Friday. It was nice to have a change of scenery.

Canadian Ski Quest Day 3

2010-02-24T20:51:00.000-08:00

We had 2-3 centimeters overnight, not much, but it did soften Red Mountain up considerably. It was nice to have a change in skiing conditions.

This is the stealth camera catching Shizu Yamaguchi on Oil Can.

My guess of the amount of snowfall was confirmed mid afternoon by Rachel Lee, who was able to get a closer look.

Alan Waterson tearing up Doug's Run.

Canadian Ski Quest Day 2

2010-02-23T21:19:00.000-08:00

Day Two of the camp, the progress continues. We try to find a challenge everyday.

This is Anne Gourley (in fine balance)

Paul Egan getting the sponsor shot.

Canadian Ski Quest Day 1

2010-02-22T21:08:00.000-08:00

Today was Day One of Canadian Ski Quest Camp 3. The snow is firm, still good on north facing slopes and the grooming is superb. Paradise Chair is going again, so happy times are back.

Rachel Lee showing excellent form after a successful Beer Belly run.

Kate Trimble getting her monies worth , also on Beer Belly.

Former Silver Star Ski Instructor Shizu Yamaguchi putting together some nice short turns on the face of Red Mountain.

Paradise Down

2010-02-21T17:14:00.000-08:00

Unfortunately the Paradise Chair had some problems today, which led to an evacuation of the lift. These things happen! How they are dealt with is the important thing. For the Red Mountain Ski Patrol this was an opportunity to to put their training to use. Seeing them in action today confirms to me the patrols standard of professionalism. The evacuation was very efficient. Instructions were clear and everything went smoothly.

Aside from the breakdown, the skiing day was great. Hopefully everything will be up and running soon.

Red Mountain Sunshine

2010-02-20T21:33:00.000-08:00

I had a day on the mountain with Isabelle and Simon. Beautiful spring weather. It is a bit early but I am sure it will return to winter soon. It was actually quite cold on anything North facing and that snow is not going though the freeze/thaw cycle that the south facing slopes are.

Sally's Alley, it seems as though you are skiing into Rossland. One of the best underused runs on Red Mountain.

Isabelle chasing down her little brother.

Isabelle on the Cliff.

Revelstoke Mountain Resort Day 4

2010-02-19T21:09:00.000-08:00

We are home in Rossland now. What a great trip! I was skiing at Red today with Simon and Isabelle; in Paradise Lodge people were telling me they heard we had a fantastic experience. Word travels fast.

This is Tomi Supenin, from the Revelstoke Snowsports School. Tomi was our guide/instructor for the four days we spent there. A great guy to ski and spend time with. His charming personality and extensive local knowledge really added value to the tour. Thanks Tomi!

The Canadian Ski Quest group with the Monashee Mountains in the background. Photo thanks to Bill Derksen.

Brad Tatnell in the North Bowl. Photos by Paul Egan.

Revelstoke Mountain Resort Day Three

2010-02-17T18:02:00.000-08:00

What do Red Mountain and Revelstoke have in common? Both challenge you to come back and ski them again! The more you get to know them the more you realise there is to know! After today's experience I know I have to come back here, that I have a lot more to learn. The first thing I did when I got back to the Courthouse Inn today was to book next years Canadian Ski Quest dates. They are Feb 6-10 2011 if anyone is interested.

Revelstoke Mountain Resort Day Two

2010-02-17T07:06:00.000-08:00

Revelstoke Mountain Resort seems to be taking off. We thought it was busy on Monday because it was part of a holiday weekend, but Tuesday was the same. Don't get me wrong, there are still no lift lines, but the parking lot was full and there is an excitement around the place. Revelstoke is setting a high standard, the lifts are first rate, the Ski School is well organised, and the dining in town has been outstanding. The only concern amongst some of the Canadian Ski Quest group is that there is no Rafters like place where the more ski bum like types would be comfortable spilling beer. But given who is skiing here, that addition will likely be accommodated at some point in the future (see second photo).

The Canadian Ski Quest Group at Rockford's Restaurant.
Not the Canadian Ski Quest Group.
Alan Waterson in the trees.

Revelstoke Mountain Resort

2010-02-15T22:39:00.000-08:00

Day one at Revelstoke today. Even though I have skied here last year I am still surprised at how big this place is. You experience three seasons skiing from top to bottom. Coming into lunch today at the mid mountain lodge, I got myself disoriented in the fog. We had been skiing down for quite a long time. I did not recognise where we were. Based on how much vertical skiing we had covered, I told the group I was skiing with that I must have led them past the mid station and we were skiing to the base. We kept skiing for quite a long time and came out at Mid Station.

Roger Kessner skiing the trees on the Ripper Chair

Roger again, about 2/3's of the way down the mountain and still high above the clouds.

Annette Montgomery and John Bowden skiing the steeps above the tree line.

Leona Edwards through the trees.

Halcyon Hotsprings

2010-02-14T17:47:00.001-08:00

Canadian Ski Quest is now in Revelstoke. We arrived via Halcyon Hotsprings where we spent the night. The water at Halcyon really is special. I am not sure what it is but I really notice how soothing it is compared to a regular hot tub. It is naturally heated mineral water, and I believe it actually has healing qualities.

Wendy Tatnell, Joe and John Bowden soaking in the goodness of Halcyon.

Paul Egan, Judy Inglis, and Des Kessner on the Galena Bay Ferry. Brad Tatnell in the background (considering jumping).

Skiing at Whitewater

2010-02-13T07:07:00.000-08:00

Canadian Ski Quest traveled to Whitewater yesterday, the official report was 9 cm, but it felt like more. It was a day of pushing our limits,a fantastic day. Skiing with Alan Waterson, Paul Egan, and Brad Tatnell, I had the run of my season on the Silver King side. Whitewater is a small ski area that has inspired (and exhausted) many a Canadian Ski Quest guest.

This is Alan "no fall" Waterson. His middle name was his one time claim. Thankfully the Canadian Ski Quest jacket he is wearing is not visible. Photo by Paul Egan.

Brad Tatnell obviously inspired by his wife's photo. see Feb 10 blog posting.

Honestly, that is not my printing.

Ruptured Patella Tendon Recovery

2010-02-12T20:59:00.000-08:00

Canadian Ski Quest Instructor Mike Manara has put together a few highlights of the week view here: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OpiEQsPY9hU The sound track has been dis-allowed, We (mike) are working on it.

This video clip was taken today, I am trying to show that my knee is on its way to recovery. I am not 100% yet but it is feeling great. Two months ago I did not imagine doing this.

Canadian Ski Quest Day 3

2010-02-10T18:29:00.001-08:00

Another great day at Red Mountain, still no new snow but the coverage is good and the snow is accepting edging beautifully.

This is Leona Edwards, her skiing is just skyrocketing this week. Upper/lower body separation, angulation: it is all coming together.

This is John Bowden skiing on his 60th birthday in Papoose Bowl.

Canadian Ski Quest Day 2

2010-02-09T21:52:00.000-08:00

The grooming this morning was very good. With no new snow so many skiers don't bother coming up, but the skiing is excellent and it was nice to have Red Mountain practically to ourselves. With hardly anyone skiing today the Canadian Ski Quest groups enjoyed many many smooth corduroy runs. We progressed to the off piste once we had skied the corduroy flat.

Canadian Ski Quest instructor Mike Manara on Pale Face

Diane Jobagy showing a nicely centered stance.

Teresa Hill charging through the pow.

Wendy Tatnell ripping up Centre Star

Canadian Ski Quest

2010-02-08T19:46:00.001-08:00

John Bowden showing son Joe the safe way.

Brian Power of the Newfoundland Liberation Army.

Joe Bowden showing no apparent concern for safety. John and Joe, father and son, are in Canadian Ski Quest together. Johns birthday is coming up this week and Joe's excellent birthday present for his dad is a surprise day of Cat Skiing at Valhalla Powdercats.

I am riding the lift with both John and Joe and as a conversation starter I blurt: "So Joe I hear you're going Cat skiing on Friday?" Joe looks at John and quietly says "happy birthday!" So much for the surprise (stupid ski instructor)!

Leona Edwards being willfully graceful.

Canadian Ski Quest Instructor Tad Graves checking out the weeks potential terrain.

The rewards of NONSTOP Instruction

2010-02-02T18:50:00.000-08:00

Five Centimeters. It is amazing what that small amount of snow did. The skiing and riding was fantastic today. The NONSTOP groups were going nonstop.

Del Hills showing some very dynamic angulation. NONSTOP Instructor Matt Briggs in the background trying to keep up.

Tom Pincus getting some fresh. I think he is giving one of the instructors some kind of signal?

Jordan Rowe showing fine CASI form.

Rick Kilbride flying.

Jon Mart enjoying the benefits of upper/lower body separation.

NONSTOP Instructor Tad Graves-midway through a 360. Yes he did land it*.

Phillip Snook deciding that skiing is better than curling.

Aiden Whitehouse skiing the CSIA way. Compare this to January 14 blog post.

*ON HIS ASS

NONSTOP Snowboarding Talent

2010-02-01T20:40:00.000-08:00

The two NONSTOP Snowboard Pros at Red Mountain this year are Matt Briggs, in his second year, and Whistler transplant Drew Hurst. They make a great team and are totally focused on the program. Whenever I see them either on the job or off, they seem to be talking about the progression of the NONSTOP group. It is great for me to be around this level of motivation.

This video clip is of them on the job during their daily training session. As you can see they seem to like their work.

Canadian Ski Quest

Powder

Simon in the Canadian Open

Canadian Ski Quest Wendy Week

New Years Eve at Big White

Salmo Ski Instructors

Situational Teaching

CSIA Level 1 at Salmo Ski Hill

Salmo Ski Hill

Girls Day at Red Mountain

Red Mountain Crowd Control

Red Mountain Day 2

Red Mountain Opening Day

Red Mountain promo

49 North Ski Resort

CSIA Course Conductor Training

Sharp Skis are Good Skis

CSIA Course Conductor Training

Winter in Banff

First Turns are Powder Turns

First Run of the Year

Rossland Weather

Old Glory Hike

Pre Season Training

Golf Champion

New Office for Canadian Ski Quest

Summer days

Red Deer Water Ramp

Red Mountain in Summer

Manager Search

Canadian Ski Quest is hiring a General Manager. The deadline for Applications is this Friday. I am looking forward to going through the process, so far I am very happy with the quality of applicant. There should be an announcement within two weeks.

Raid the North Team Wild Rose

Latest Old Glory Run Ever

Old Glory is Skiable

Old Glory Failed Reconnaissance

Summer Training Inspiration

Summer Skiing at Mt. Hood

30/30 Peace

29/30 Think I am Going to Make It

28/30 Going Fast

27/30 Surprise Cabin

26/30 Grizzly Tracks

25/30 Mt. Crowe

24/30 Family Day

23/30 Sunspot Cabin

22/30 Minimum Ski

21/30 Early Morning Granite Mountain

20/30 Paulson Cross Country Ski Area

19/30 Red Mountain Night Ski

18/30 Strawberry Pass

17/30 The Last Skier in the World

16/30 Simon's Glory Moment

15/30 Results Can Come Anytime Now......

14/30 The Never Ending Winter

13/30 Mt. Kirkup

12/30 Black Jack Again

11/30 Black Jack Cross Country Ski

10/30 Mt. Spokane

9/30 Missed it by 30 Minutes

8/30 April 22 Day One of Spring Skiing at Red Mountain

7/30 Great Skiing but the Snow Just WON'T STOP

6/30 Got the Job Done

5/30 Kootenay Pass

4/30 Fernie All by Myself

3/30 Kootenay Pass

2/30 Fresh Heavy Tracks

30 Slides in 30 Days

Jonathan Campagna Level 4

January at Red-its all Ours

Wendy McIntrye-Super Coach

Canadian Ski Quest Wendy Week

Top Four Reasons to Ski Red Mountain pre Christmas

Soltice Training Day

Ski Instruction vs Free Ski Coach

More snow?!? *sigh* Alright...

Early Season Skiing, Lake Louise

Winter in Banff

Snow in Rossland-it Counts

Snowing!!!

Snow at Cookie Jar Cabin

More snow?!? sigh Alright...