If you didn’t know, Canada has a National Ski Mountaineering Team. What’s this, you say? Well, it’s kind of like combining adventure racing with ski alpinism. Ski mountaineer racers perfect skinning on the up & tandem skiing on the down, going hard and fast, marathon-style. They use ultra-light gear to achieve fast times, and train year around as endurance athletes, though with a twist, as the mountain itself must always be contended with, from exposed and icy uptracks to steep and, well, exposed downs, from couloirs to rocky-strewn slopes.
Of course, such a competitive, meaningful, dedicated sport is much larger in Europe, but Canada’s team has been doing well in the field of experienced Euros, with the team finishing 14th out of 23 countries, including local Whistler resident (and Escape Route tech) Alex Wigley garnering some impressive results. The team is comprised of both men and women; Revelstoke’s Melanie Bernier was the top individual Canadian, finishing 16th out of 41 women.
The 2010 Canadian Ski Mountaineering Team, from left: Melanie Bernier, Julie Matteau, James Minifie, Ian Gale, Stano Faban, Alex Wigley, Jeff Colvin, Andrew McNab, Reiner Thoni & Billie Velisek.
So, ski fiends, if you’re in Revelstoke upcoming, check out this fundraiser. It will be a party, and good times will be had by all, with your beer coin going towards sending our under-supported athletes out to conquer. Here’s for some Canuck pride out in them spandex suits…
What: CDN National Ski Mountaineering Team Fundraiser
When: 7pm, December 9th, 2010
Where: The Last Drop, Revelstoke
Why: Because anyone rocking spandex below zero deserves every penny. The fundraiser includes live music by The Rippin Rattlers, a silent auction, draw prizes and food and drink prizes. The best spandex outfit wins a special prize.
Here’s the lowdown from the ACC:
If you’re anywhere near Revelstoke next week, come and party with the best skiers in the country. The National Ski Mountaineering Team will be throwing a fundraiser for their trip to Claut, Italy next Feb to compete in the ISMF Ski Mountaineering World Championships. Thursday’s shindig will feature a live band, silent auction, prizes, and (I anticipate) some great performances. 7 p.m. December 9th at The Last Drop. $10 at the door. Meet the girls. Don’t try to drink with Jeff. Watch out for Andrew…
