Axiom Home Page Forums General Discussion The Water Cooler OT: Missing Persons

I have to defend some of the hazardous skiiers and snowboarders in the world by saying that they may very well be running into you because they can't help it!

I didn't hit anybody, but my first (and last!) skiing experience was a nightmare. I nearly killed myself by getting out of control. Faster and faster I went...I finally dumped myself intentionally rather than fly though the bottom of the hill out into the lodge and through a window. Quite a nasty spill...poles went one direction, skis another, while I tumbled in yet another direction. NOT fun.

spiffnme
I can see that perfectly in my mind.LOL!
Reminds me of when we took my 8 year old niece skiing for the first time. After 2 days of lessons, we took here to the top of the last green run before the bunny hill and before the nets. I knew she was in trouble from the get go, because her skis pointed straight down the montain, pulled in tight together, and the look on her face was one of PURE TERROR. I think she must of made it up to 50mph before she hit the nets. None of this was funny at the time, but it sure the hell is now when I look back. She has never been skiing again, and she is 15 now and LIVES IN COLORADO.

The only problem I have with the boarders are the ones that just scrape the mountain most of the way down.

spiff, i don't suppose mr bear has photos of that adventure, does he?

In all seriousness....that is not a valid reason. Unfortunately, it is the reason most quote when we try and help them, and promote safe sliding. It is the same as defending bad drivers because the can't drive any better! LOL.
Having said that, everyone needs to be tolerant of those who are learning, and progressing in there abilities. However, it is not recommended to go from green to double black diamonds on your first visit!!!

For those who have not seen this (shame on you if you ski and have not, as it is posted at every ski hill) :-)

The Alpine Responsibility Code

Regardless of how you enjoy your snow sport, always show courtesy to others and be aware that THERE ARE INHERENT RISKS in all snow recreational activities that common sense and personal awareness can reduce. These risks include rapid changes in weather and surface conditions, collisions with other people as well as natural and artificial hazards such as rocks, trees, stumps, bare spots, lift towers and snowmaking equipment.

Know and Observe the Code below - It's YOUR responsibility

1)Know your ability and always stay in control and be able to stop and avoid other people or objects
2)Take lessons from qualified professional instructors to learn and progress
3)Do not stop where you obstruct a trail or run or are not visible from above
4)When entering a trail or run, or starting downhill, look uphill and give way to others
5)Always use proper devices to prevent runaway equipment. Ensure your equipment is in good condition
6)Avoid people ahead of you - they have right-of-way
7)Observe all signs and warnings. Keep off closed trails or runs and out of closed areas
8)Before using any lift, you must have the knowledge and ability to load, ride and unload safely
9)Do not ski, snowboard, ride a chairlift or undertake any other alpine activity if drugs or alcohol impair your ability
10)If you are involved in a collision or witness and accident, alert Ski Patrol, remain at the scene and identify yourself to Ski Patrol

Failure to observe the Alpine Responsibility Code may result in CANCELLATION of your ticket by the Ski Patrol or other authorised personnel

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As someone who has represented both Gore and Whiteface on a number of appeals, and based on my own observations and numerous talks with the Ski Patrol, I can tell you that Rule # 7 is by far the most often violated.

I was hardly on a black diamond run. I simply don't know how to stop once going over 4mph.

I'll stick to tennis.

Sorry Craig, I was not implying you were....

But it sounds like you were not in control, and maybe that was something that could have been beyond your control. I see a lot of people who think they are ready for the glades, or double black diamonds.....who end up waiting for help to get them out of these areas because they are beyond they're comfortzone and capabilities.

I must admit, I get beyond mine sometimes, but it is all a matter of trying to adhere to the codes I posted.

Again, sorry if it seemed I was singling you out.....

I had acutally gone down the run several times already. That last time I simply got going to fast and things just kind of snowballed from there. Sucked. Haven't been skiing since. (I tend not to like doing things that scare the *&^%$ out of me.)

See, the problem you were having is a french fries vs. pizza thing...