- News

Head to Mont SUTTON for a fun summer

Wed, 15 May 2013 13:37:00 -0400

With the activities announced on montsutton.com/activities, Mont SUTTON is definitely a top of the mind place for an escapade of a stay if you want to be surrounded by nature! This ski area, located in the Eastern Townships, has a wide range of activities for all on the program this summer, whether you are a challenge seeker or looking for a family outdoor activity! Xtrail Asics: one of the top 10 trail races in Canada On June 1st, close to 1,000 runners of every ages and levels will get challenged on the Parc d’environnement naturel de Sutton’s trails! For the 5th consecutive year, Xtrail Asics will offer different circuits; from 1 km for kids of 4-12 years old to 21 km for more experienced runners. This year, Mont SUTTON will be hosting the Canadian mountain running championships! Spectators are welcome to encourage the participants at the departure and the arrival, all of this in a festive atmosphere! xtrailasics.com

Swiss National Day: the largest celebration of its kind, outside Switzerland
On Saturday August 3rd, discover Mont SUTTON under another decor during the 37th edition of the Swiss National Day! Activities and concerts are scheduled for the whole day! Among others activities on the program: exhibitions of Swiss artists’ creations, a Swiss style wrestling competition (Schwingen), a small rifle shooting event, chairlift ride, Swiss music, traditional Swiss food and a bonfire in the evening. Rain or shine, here’s a great opportunity to find out more about the Swiss culture! fedesuisse.com

Hiking and camping at the summit
Those who like Mont SUTTON in the winter for the unique concept of glade skiing and surrounding nature also like Parc d’environnement naturel de Sutton’s trails, where nature is everywhere! The Parc d’environnement Naturel de Sutton offers many different combination of circuits on a total of 52km of marked trails of every category.

Top tips for an interactive hike
To animate hikes with kids and to make hiking a top interactive activity, ask for the “Massif des monts Sutton BioKit” at the Parc d’environnement naturel de Sutton’s reception point or download it before the day of your hike on Environment Canada website at ec.gc.ca.

For a unique experience, Parc d’environnement naturel de Sutton also offers the possibility to combine hiking and camping by spending a night at the summit of Mont SUTTON in a tent or in the chalet Alt.840m, which becomes a refuge for hikers in the summer (reservation required). parcsutton.com

Overview of the activities in the area
In the summer, just as we can appreciate in the winter, Mont SUTTON and its area offer a wide range of activities! Here are a few activities on the program this summer: Coupe des Amériques (cycling event), different arts events such as the Tour des Arts and the Tournée des 20, new VéloVolant (canopy cycle) at Au Diable Vert, golf, calm water kayak excursion, spas, circuits to be discovered by bike or even by car such as the Wine Route and the Chemin des Cantons, arts galleries, cultural hall, museum and so much more…

Also, those who would like to stay in Sutton can take advantage of the Hike’N Sip Rosé’N Stay package and discover in a same escapade the trails, warm lodging and local wine Rosé!

To find out more about the activities in the area, the attractions and the lodgings:
montsutton.com
infosutton.com
tourismebm.qc.ca
easterntownships.org

Keystone Resort Announces Headliner Events for Summer 2013

Wed, 15 May 2013 13:29:00 -0400

KEYSTONE, Colo. — The mountain fun at Keystone Resort doesn’t end when the snow melts; a summer of adventure awaits in the stunning Rocky Mountains. Throughout the season, Keystone offers a variety of events and activities for every kind of family or group. For adrenaline junkies, challenging downhill and endurance-testing adventure races allow you to push the limits while enjoying the spectacular natural surroundings. For those looking to enjoy the mountain splendor at a slower pace, Keystone offers a lineup of signature Village festivals, featuring perfect pairings including Wine and Jazz and Bluegrass and Beer. With a plethora of activities and exciting events, everyone in your family or group can appreciate the mountain environment at their speed. Don’t forget to check out Keystone’s abundance of daily on-and-off mountain activities from white water rafting to golf, to hiking, to scenic gondola rides. Keystone’s amazing assortment of lodging options and diverse fine and casual dining offerings provide the perfect way to reconnect or reminisce after a day spent pursuing passions separately, or together. With a new adventure available around every turn, choose a weekend event to enjoy and extend your stay to revel in all that Keystone has to offer by taking advantage of great summer packages and Play for Free activities included with a two night stay or more.

Summer 2013 Headliner Events

Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour
Dates: June 22-23
Location: River Run Village
Back for a third-year, Keystone Resort will host the Blue Ribbon Bacon Tour in River Run Village Saturday, June 22-Sunday, June 23 from 1p.m.-6p.m. This weekend-long festival brings in thousands of pounds of bacon from well-known bacon purveyors such as Tender Belly, Eden Farms and Denver Bacon Company as well as Keystone food vendors serving up creative bacon inspired dishes. Enjoy tastes ranging from salty bacon wrapped scallops to sweet bacon sprinkled s’mores while sipping on a cold beer or a bacon bloody mary. Listen to bands such as Hamilton Loomis and the Steeldrivers while meandering through the many bacon tents or find a patio deck to relax on while munching on the tasty treats. For children, the festival provides kids craft sessions along Ina’s Bridge and for adults, Warren Station Center for the Arts will be hosting a bacon seminar from 3p.m.-4p.m. each day. Advance tickets start at $30 per person and include an event koozie, a pair of commemorative sunglasses, bacon bucks for vendor tents and unlimited bacon tasting at purveyor tents. Buy now at www.keystonefestivals.com. Lodging packages start at $80 per person and include one night of lodging and one day ticket for the festival. To book now visit www.keystoneresort.com.

Snake River Festival
Dates: June 29-30
Location: River Run Village and Keystone Mountain Bike Park
Rocky Mountain Endurance (RME) presents the Snake River Festival taking place Saturday, June 29-Sunday, June 30 in River Run Village and in the Keystone Mountain Bike Park. Great for the entire family, the Snake River Festival will not only host a weekend of RME mountain bike racing, but will also provide guided group rides, individually self-guided marked course rides, coaching clinics, kids activities, music, yoga, food, a beer garden, bike movie and more. The festival is not only for avid mountain bike riders, but also for those who wish to either evolve into being a better mountain bike rider or for families who want to spend more time on two-wheels together. On-site registration is available for a $10 fee. For more information visit http://www.warriorscycling.com/races/snake-river-mtb-festival.

Big Mountain Enduro
Dates: July 6-7
Location: River Run Village and Keystone Mountain Bike Park
The Big Mountain Enduro Series presented by Yeti Cycles is an authentic multi-stage, multi-day annual Enduro series throughout the most picturesque vacation destinations in Colorado, Utah and New Mexico. Stopping at Keystone Saturday, July 6-Sunday, July 7, this much anticipated competition offers some of the biggest and most challenging terrain in the Keystone Mountain Bike Park. The race will follow a mix of the European formats; tying in epic backcountry on big terrain, as well as lift-accessed stages blended in along the way. Courses will feature predominantly downhill timed “special” stages linked together by non-timed liaison climbing stages. This rapidly growing discipline combines the physical endurance of cross-country riding with the technical difficulty and excitement of downhill racing. The 2013 Big Mountain Enduro Series will encompass over 40,000 vertical feet of descending world-class singletrack throughout the entire season. Keystone’s course is specially designed to give participants a unique riding experience, including high altitude trails and long descents that will test athlete’s pure strength, endurance and bike handling skills. In sum, this unprecedented race will showcase some of the best trails at Keystone Resort, while hosting many of the top all-around mountain bikers from across the globe, ultimately catering to all types of riders in an entertaining atmosphere for the entire family and local communities to enjoy. For more information visit www.warriorscycling.com.

Wine and Jazz Festival
Dates: July 12-14
Location: River Run Village
Beginning Friday, July 12-Sunday, July 14 Keystone Resort will host the annual Wine and Jazz Festival in River Run Village from 1p.m.-5p.m. Saturday-Sunday and 7p.m.-10p.m. Friday. The Reserve Wine Tasting Dinner in Warren Station Center for the Arts will kick-off the festival Friday evening with an array of the world’s finest wines, classy entertainment and gourmet food. Saturday and Sunday will feature over three-hundred wines readily available for tasting amongst the many vendor tents throughout the Village as well as educational wine seminars happening in Warren Station Center for the Arts. Wine Seminars include options such as “Chocolate & Wine,” “Great Summer Wines for Any Occasion,” and “Champagne on a Sunday Morn.” Musical performers will hit the plaza stage Saturday and Sunday during the festival, featuring Jazz musicians such as Joel Rodney, Will Donato, Mia Boarders, Jackiem Joyner and Dotsero. Early bird ticket pricing starts at $55 for a one-day ticket and includes an official Keystone Wine and Jazz tasting glass, unlimited sampling of over 300 wines and five gourmet food tickets. Buy tickets now at www.keystonefestivals.com. Lodging packages start at $105 per person and include a one-day tasting ticket and one-night of lodging at the Inn at Keystone. Book now at www.keystoneresort.com.

XTERRA Wild Running Festival
Dates: July 13-14
Location: Lakeside Village
XTERRA in-conjunction with Keystone Resort announces a weekend of running events for every age and skill level Saturday, July 13-Sunday, July 14 in Lakeside Village. The weekend will consist of seven trail races ranging from silly to serious as well as music, food, beer & wine, trail running clinics and nightly gatherings. XTERRA has a myriad of trail races on tap for the weekend including their signature event, the XTERRA Wild Obstacle Course Run—inspired by Mother Nature, the course will be tough, muddy and fun with a series of man-made and natural hazards for runners to navigate and conquer. Other races happening throughout the weekend will include an XTERRA Night Run, XTERRA Run to the Sun: an uphill trail challenge featuring 2,000 ft. of climbing, XTERRA Keystone 5K/10K, XTERRA Snake River Relay: a team-oriented dash-n-splash and XTERRA Wild Kids K: fun for the wee ones. Visit www.runningusa.org/xterra-wild for more information.

Bluegrass and Beer Festival
Dates: August 2-4
Location: River Run Village
For the 17th year in a row, Keystone Resort will host the annual Bluegrass and Beer Festival Friday, August 2-Sunday, August 4 in River Run Village. Beginning Friday at 8p.m. Warren Station Center for the Arts will present the Blugerass Kick-Off Party with Della Mae. Saturday and Sunday will consist of Bluegrass Seminars at Warren Station Center for the Arts starting at 9a.m. followed by the Shock Top Beer Garden, Festival Food and Kids Crafts running from 12p.m.-5p.m. each day. The instructional bluegrass seminars, costing $10 each or free to lodging guests, will range from Mandolin Seminar with John Frazier to Fiddle Seminar with Phoebe Hunt offering festival attendees the chance to learn the art of Bluegrass. Live music will hit the stage at 12:30p.m. daily with a line-up consisting of acts such as Spur of the Moment, Hackensaw Boys, Hit and Run, Sierra Hull and Fruition. Beer tasting will begin at 1p.m. and run until 5p.m. Saturday and Sunday offering featured beers from over 30 microbreweries such as Boulder Beer Co., Breckenridge Brewery, New Belgium Brewing Co. and Left Hand Brewing Co. Tasting day tickets start at the Early Bird Price of $35 per day inclusive of an official Keystone Bluegrass and Beer sampling mug and unlimited tasting of over 30 breweries specialty beers. Buy tickets now at www.keystonefestivals.com. Lodging packages start at $102 per person and includes one night of lodging and on day tasting ticket. Visit www.keystoneresort.com to book now.

Cirque Du Wheels
Dates: August 31-September 1
Location: River Run Village
For the first time, Rocky Mountain Endurance is bringing a circus on wheels to Keystone Resort Saturday, August 31-Sunday, September 1 in River Run Village. This weekend-long festival’s main act consists of a 12 hour bike relay race that will begin Sunday morning at 7a.m. and finish at 7p.m. Sunday night. Prior to the big relay race, Saturday’s activities line-up consists of plenty to do including a costume cruiser ride, circus procession on wheels, a beer garden, bonfire, prizes and live music. Beginning Saturday night at 7p.m. live music will hit the stage for a concert to top off the first day of festivities. During the relay race on Sunday the festival will feature carnival games with a ringmaster, live performers as well as an awards ceremony after the finale of the relay race. Registration info and more details coming soon at www.keystoneresort.com.

Taste of Keystone
Date: September 1
Location: Lakeside Village
Coming back to Lakeside Village for the 25th year in a row, The Taste of Keystone happening Sunday, September 1 from 11a.m.-3p.m. allows Keystone festival goers the opportunity to sample a wide variety of cuisine from Keystone’s best restaurants. Featuring tastings from Keystone’s signature AAA four-diamond rated restaurants—Alpenglow Stube, Ski Tip Lodge and the Keystone Ranch as well as food treats from other restaurants such as the Bighorn Steakhouse and the Black Bear Grill, the one-day festival will offer a wider range of flavors in bite-size tastings. Free music and children’s activities will be available throughout the event as well as a silent auction benefitting Mountain Mentors. Tasting tickets cost one-dollar each with samples generally ranging from two-five tickets. Visit www.keystoneresort.com for updated information throughout the summer.

A51 River Run Rail Series: Backyard BBQ Rail Jam
Date: September 7
Location: River Run Face
Back for its second-year due to popular demand, The Backyard BBQ Rail Jam, part of the A51 River Run Rail Series will take place at the base of the River Run Face across from the Summit Express Chairlift Saturday, September 7. Featuring a multi-rail set-up, participants will have the chance to throw-down their best tricks in front of the judges to snag the top spot and take home sweet prizing. Real snow will be brought in for the event making skiing and snowboarding on the rail set-up similar to in-season conditions. Live music, food and beer will be available throughout the day as well as crowd-giveaways. Sponsor tents will be available for browsing the latest equipment while enjoying the earliest rail jam in Summit County. Entry into the rail jam costs $20. Visit www.keystoneresort.com for updated information throughout the summer.

For full event listings and details throughout the summer season please visit the Keystone Resort website at www.keystoneresort.com.

Austria Is Now Epic

Tue, 07 May 2013 12:39:00 -0400

Ski & Ride the Best of Austria, Switzerland and the USA on One Season Pass

2013-2014 Epic Pass holders receive five free days at Arlberg, Austria, including St. Anton, Lech, Zuers, St. Christoph & Stuben

Ski For Just Over Five Days and the Epic Pass Pays For Itself

BROOMFIELD, Colo. – Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN) today announced an epic partnership with one of the most famous ski regions in the world, Arlberg, Austria, home to legendary mountain resorts of St. Anton, Lech-Zürs, St. Christoph and Stuben. The Epic Pass now features five free consecutive days of skiing and riding in Arlberg, bringing the total access to 15 world-class mountains in three countries and further enhancing the already exceptional value of the world’s greatest lift pass. Epic Pass holders have the opportunity to extend their winter from the U.S. to Europe—for the second consecutive year—and experience both Verbier, Switzerland, and now Arlberg, Austria, in addition to Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Arapahoe Basin and Eldora in Colorado, and Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe. Boasting an average of seven metres of annual snowfall (23 feet), the Arlberg area is legendary among skiers and riders from around the globe as the cradle of skiing, revered for the world-class experience and innovation in the sport that it affords while maintaining its traditional, Alpine character.

The unrestricted five free days of skiing and riding will be reciprocated for Arlberg season pass holders, allowing more guests to experience Vail Resorts, including the award-winning social application EpicMix. EpicMix offers a seamless and effortless way to digitally capture and share your mountain experience, tracking vertical feet skied, digital pins earned for exploration and photos of your holiday that can be shared through Facebook and Twitter. Vail Resorts' guests can also test their skills against Olympic champion skier Lindsey Vonn with EpicMix Racing, and new for the 2013-2014 winter season, Vail Resorts will be introducing EpicMix Academy, which will reinvent ski school as we know it. At only US$689, the Epic Pass is the best value on a lift pass in the industry.

"We are pleased and proud to announce our partnership with Arlberg as Epic Pass holders can now ski the best resorts in the world in three countries on one pass. Vail Resorts continues to look for opportunities to enhance the incredible value of the Epic Pass that our European guests already receive and enjoy. In March, we announced that we increased the VAIL + ARLBERG 2-2-2 number of free days of access to Verbier, Switzerland, from three to five for the 2013-2014 season,” said Kirsten Lynch, executive vice president and chief marketing officer of Vail Resorts. “Epic Pass holders already enjoy an incredible experience with unlimited, unrestricted access to Vail Resorts’ seven world-class resorts in the United States, including Vail, Beaver Creek,Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstarand Kirkwood, as well as Arapahoe Basinand Eldora, but the addition of world-class skiing in both Austria and Switzerland makes the Epic Pass even more compelling for our international guests.”

Boasting 340 kilometers of marked ski runs, 200 kilometers of open free-ride terrain, 94 cable cars and lifts, and approximately seven meters (23 feet) of annual snowfall, The Arlberg is arguably Austria’s most popular mountain resort group. Modern and vibrant, St. Anton am Arlberg also maintains its traditional Tyrolean charm. The Arlberg ski area will be open from Dec. 6, 2013 – Apr. 27, 2014.

"Arlberg and Vail Resorts are arguably the world's premier ski resorts, offering exceptional experiences on the mountain and an unparalleled level of customer service," said Hermann Fercher, chief executive officer of Lech-Zürs. "We are looking forward to a successful partnership and welcome Epic Pass holders to Austria next winter", chief executive officer of St. Anton am Arlberg, Martin Ebster, went on to say.

Skiers and riders receive the lowest guaranteed prices on next season by purchasing their passes before May 27, 2013, and also can lock in early-bird lodging deals at Vail Resorts and Arlberg:

Save up to 33 percent off lodging at Vail’s premier properties, including The Lodge at Vail, A RockResort; The Arrabelle at Vail Square, A RockResort; The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Vail; and Austria Haus, when you stay 6 nights or more and book before November 15, 2013. This deal is available exclusively to Vail Resorts’ international guests when booked through Vail Resorts’ preferred travel partners in your local area listed at www.snowusa.com. Contact Ski Independence for more information, and for packages to the Arlberg area to purchase with your Epic Pass.

Vail Resorts also offers other pass options for our international guests next winter:

The Epic Local Pass™is perfect for guests who can navigate a pass with a few more restrictions on their winter holiday. The Epic Local Pass for US$529 offers unlimited and unrestricted skiing or riding at Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin with limited restrictions at Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood. Also includes a total of 10 days at Vail and Beaver Creek with US holiday restrictions. At the spring rate, the Epic Local Pass pays for itself in just over four days.

The Epic 7-Day™is perfect for people who don’t plan to ski more than 7 days. The Epic 7-Day gives skiers or riders a total of seven unrestricted days of skiing at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar, Kirkwood, and Arapahoe Basin anytime during the season for a price of US$529. Ski any seven days of the season. At the spring rate, the Epic 7-Day pays for itself in just over four days.

Photo courtesy of Arlberg

Ruckus in the Rockies 3: Street Jam

Sun, 05 May 2013 22:49:00 -0400

There was fire in the street session at Lake Louise yesterday. Day two of Monster Energy’s Ruckus in the Rockies 3 came with blazing sun, bronzing skin, and a patio party that was eating up the action as pro and local shredders melted butter on the best street setup to grace this fine province.

The session went as so; with confidence and style Monster pro riders Ethan Deiss, and Zac Hale we’re constantly reminding us that the level they’re on is a legitimate notch up. Local-ish ripper Tanner Davidson was fresh off a 4-month injury hiatus, but no one would have known. Watch out for this dude Tanner, he’s coming up hot. Rad-dad Kale Hill, still has the most bazaar lines and trick selection but he dropped some crazy moves that most wouldn’t step to and walked away with a 3^rd place finish. 2^nd place money went to Brady Smith who just went bananas in the last 20 minuets and tore apart the course checking off trick after trick with an abundance of style. Jason Dubois won the big money with some of the most heaty tricks and heaviest bails. They don’t all come easy, but the ones that work the hardest end up on top.

Later that eve Ruckus in the Rockies 3 shut things down at one of the most savage parties I’ve ever attended. The Alberta shred scene is alive and well nourished; it was great to see an event like this get traction and brining out the best in locals, pros, and spectators. Cheers to Monster and Lake Louise. We’ll be seeing you next year.

Brady Smith, smashed a lipslide into the flat section of this kink

Jay Dubois, front three gap to 50-50 the hard way around

Zac with a ollie tailgrab over the gate into a front board

Kale Hill, nollie back three into this 50-50

Your winner. This noseslide on the gate was changed up into a back lip on the way down

Brady with stee

Girls and money and monster

An all time crowd on hand at the base of Lake Louise

Ruckus in the Rockies 3: Monster Hip

Sat, 04 May 2013 11:32:00 -0400

Leave it to Monster Energy to build the biggest hip Alberta has ever seen. Yesterday at Ruckus in the Rockies 3 riders sent it to the moon while casually competing for Kawasaki motocross bike and a days worth of heli shredding with Eagle Pass Heli out or Revelstoke BC.

In a light session atmosphere established pros Charles Reid and Dustin Craven sent it with legends Rube Goldberg, Jonas Guinn, Kelly Schovanek and come ups Robby Balharry, Jermey Guido and Dave Schmidt (to name a few who were brave enough to tame the beast).

When the heat was finally shut down Robby Balharry walked away with a days worth of heli shredding at Canada’s premier operator and Charles Reid (who owned the hip all day with the biggest airs and airs to fakie Lake Louise has ever seen) jumping on the new endouro and ripping off stage and into the parking lot.

High-fives to Lake Louis and Jeff Paterson (Snowboard Canada’s own senior photographer) for building the hip, and to all the competitors who brave enough to ride the behemoth. It was quite the show.

Monster is lighting up the street session today at the base of Lake Louise and giving away $10,000.

The Ruckus in the Rockies is building a solid following amongst fans and riders as a must attend event. Follow us tomorrow on instagram @snowboardcanda as the madness unfolds.

Above: Dustin Craven gets the best view of the valley

Robby Balharry was sending it deep all day

Charles Reid with a monster air to fakie

Babes in toy land. Charels with his new bike.

Lake Louise Ski Area set to cause a Ruckus in the Rockies

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:24:00 -0400

The Lake Louise Ski Area gears-up to get down for its final week of the season, and what a week it’s going to be!

Ruckus in the Rockies, May 3rd and 4th, hosted by the Lake Louise Ski Area and Monster Energy, celebrates another incredible season with two days packed with snowboard jams, famous riders, rail contests and live music.

Friday May 3rd – Mega Hip Feature
Think huge kicker on Easy Street in perfect viewing location from the base area and the Konkanee Kabin. Watch as Monster Energy team riders, including Eero Nimela and Charles Reid, go head to head setting new heights for big air and best tricks.

Saturday May 4th – Rail Contest
Monster Energy is bringing their brand new, custom built, one of a kind rail setup for riders in a rail contest with $10,000 in prize money! All visible from the base area and Kokanee Kabin, spectators can enjoy the sounds of Vinyl Ritchie with the entertainment and backdrop of the iconic Lake Louise Ski Area.

Saturday will also see the annual Bikinis for Breast Cancer fundraiser, which is open to women of all ages wanting to raise money and awareness for a good cause!

Sunday May 5th – Mountain Throwback Funk Jam
Rock-up and rock-out in your best retro gear on the final day of the season at the Lake Louise Ski area. Welcoming all those wanting to see off the ski season in style, there will be DJs, face painting, a bouncy castle, sumo suit wrestling, a hotdog eating contest, a funky lap of Wiwaxy with skiers dressed in their best throwback gear and a best dressed competition.

As we enter into the final week at the Lake Louise Ski Area, the spring skiing continues at Sunshine Village until May 20th!

Mont-Sainte-Anne and Stoneham end the ski season with positive results

Mon, 29 Apr 2013 11:19:00 -0400

Mont-Sainte-Anne and its sister resort Stoneham Mountain Resort ended their 2012/2013 season on a positive note yesterday. Mont-Sainte-Anne was in operation for 146 days and 49 nights versus 121 days and 101 nights at Stoneham, while management was satisfied with the traffic on the slopes. Both resorts still boasted large skiable terrain on their closing day, which ends the winter with a white carpet!

THE HIGHLIGHTS
Prime factor of a good or bad ski season, weather was generally favourable throughout the winter. Heavy snow in December favoured a successful Christmas Time, during which Mont-Sainte-Anne even posted a record day in the last five years. Even if the temperatures of January were less favorable [rain and cold weather], March offset it with abundant fresh snow and pleasant weather. Stoneham also marked its best month of March for the past five years.

EXCEPTIONAL SPRING
With 44 cm of fresh snow on the eve of Easter and 10 more cm mid-April [for a total of 400 cm in 2012/2013], Mont-Sainte-Anne boasted legendary spring skiing, during which some days felt like February’s winter conditions. The resort closed yesterday on April 28, with 25 open trails, a record for several years. Mont-Sainte-Anne is always the last resort in the area to end its season and is renowned for its Spring Madness event.

SKI SCHOOLS: NEW SKIERS APLENTY!
At the TELUS Winter Sports School of Stoneham, several efforts have been made to promote our initiation programs to develop new skiers and snowboarders, which resulted in doubling the number of new skiers and snowboarders this season. We also noticed a 25% increase in our season programs for 3-6 years old. At Mont-Sainte-Anne, our new season program discounted during the afternoon generated an increase of 16%. In addition, our new offer that includes lift tickets in all children group classes also scored 15% increase.

This Saturday: Sun and One Last Day of Spring Skiing at Mont SUTTON

Fri, 26 Apr 2013 12:48:00 -0400

It’s confirmed: there will be a last day of spring skiing at Mont SUTTON, this Saturday April 27. Chairlift IV will be in function, giving access to a few trails in this area with real spring skiing conditions!

What you should know for the last day of skiing at Mont SUTTON, this Saturday April 27:

Only the chairlift IV will be in function, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Chairs and BBQ will be installed at the base of this chairlift. Festive atmosphere guaranteed!

Special rate for the last day: $20 tax included, every category.

Lift tickets will be available directly at the base of chairlift IV. Cash only. If you pay credit or debit, please note the main chalet Alt.400m ticket office will be open, but you’ll have to get back in your car to head to chairlift IV – accessible via Chemin Réal, because the chairlift II will be closed.

Mont SUTTON will be open for the last day of the season this Saturday April 27.
Chairlift IV will be in function from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Blue Mountain Slopes Open Thursday to Sunday with Golf on the Weekend

Wed, 24 Apr 2013 16:13:00 -0400

As the last resort standing in Ontario, Blue Mountain is extending the snowboard season. April 25th will set a record as the latest date that Blue Mountain has been open for skiing and snowboarding (*records start in 1984).

The Silver Bullet Chair will be open Thursday April 25 – Sunday April 28. A hike park area with select features will be open on Saturday and Sunday. Lift Tickets are $29 Adult and $19 Youth/Senior. Mountain operations are subject to change based on weather and conditions. Please visit www.bluemountain.ca for daily trail counts and updates.

Please note that Blue Mountain has not determined a closing date.

Monterra Golf:
Just because the mountain still has snow doesn’t mean the fairways aren’t ready for golfers. Monterra Golf plans to open on Saturday April 27 and Sunday April 28 with $49 (+HST) rounds cart included (weather permitting). Monterra will officially open seven days a week as of May 2nd (CLOSED April 29 – May 1)

Ski & Golf:
It doesn’t get much better than that! Join us on Saturday April 27 & Sunday April 28 for a special Ski & Golf offer. One round of golf at Monterra and one lift ticket for $68 (+HST) cart included. Space is limited. Please call 705.445.0231 for more information.

Grand Central Lodge webcam photo, Thursday April 25

Spring Skiing Please - Asking for more at Mont SUTTON

Tue, 23 Apr 2013 14:28:00 -0400

If the weather forecast is right and the sun is shining this Saturday April 27, skiers and snowboarders might have the chance to enjoy a last day of spring skiing at Mont SUTTON, with chairlift IV and a few trails. If so, this mountain will be the only one in the Eastern Townships still open.

“There are always diehards looking for days of advanced spring skiing: soft snow, bumps, bare-spots and raccoon eyes… Skiers who were on the mountain this weekend were already asking for more”, says Jean-Michel Ryan, Mont SUTTON General Manager.

Nothing has been confirmed for the moment. The final decision will be announced this Friday April 26 on montsutton.com, facebook.com/montsutton and twitter.com/montsutton. Stay tuned!

Burton Joins Forces with Protect Our Winters to Encourage More Snowboarders to Fight Against Climate Change

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 14:08:00 -0400

Burlington, VT (April 22, 2013) In honor of Earth Day, Burton is proud to announce stepped-up efforts in support of Protect Our Winters (POW), an athlete-focused foundation whose mission is to unite the winter sports community against the effects of climate change. Together, Burton and POW will focus on building awareness and taking action against global warming in the snowboard community through social media campaigns, global team rider activation and events.

“Burton has a deep responsibility to the sport we helped pioneer and to the people and environment that sustain it,” said Burton President Donna Carpenter. “We are riders, and we take climate change personally because snowboarding is our life, our livelihood and our passion. By working more closely with POW, our hope is to encourage snowboarders to get involved with the very important work the organization is doing. Together, we can protect our winters.”

Burton and POW have strong ties already as Burton team riders Nicolas Muller, Danny Davis and John Jackson are actively involved with the POW Riders Alliance, a community of professional athletes committed to environmental leadership. And many Burton riders also signed a climate change petition last week that urged President Obama to take action on climate change and clean energy.

Moving forward, Burton plans to encourage more riders to join POW’s efforts through social media campaigns, and the company will actively promote POW at marquee events like the US Open Snowboarding Championships. To kick things off today, Burton and POW are launching an awareness campaign on Instagram where riders can share how they protect our winters and in turn win cool prizes from Burton and POW. To get involved, riders simply upload a photo and caption that shows how they protect our winters to @burtonsnowboard on Instagram and tag #HowYouPOW. Each month, a new winner will be randomly selected and recognized for their fresh take on making a difference.

"We're absolutely thrilled about our partnership with Burton,” said Chris Steinkamp, Executive Director of Protect Our Winters. “Our ability to unite the snow sports community, build grassroots advocacy and take a strong economic message to Washington is being taken to another level now."

Burton’s expanded relationship with POW is just a part of its extensive commitment to sustainability. Since 2008, Burton has actively increased its focus on sustainability by working to ensure a healthier future for all riders through efforts like the Green Mountain Process, where Burton seeks to improve not just the use of sustainable materials, but also the production process as a whole. In addition, through a continued collaboration with Mountain Dew, Burton has gained a consistent supplier of high-grade fabrics woven with recycled plastic soda bottles. Burton also has a department focused on sustainability that reports directly to Burton President, Donna Carpenter. The group has stepped up social and environmental responsibility in the supply chain with restricted substance and code of conduct policies. And last year, Burton became a bluesign® system partner to ensure select softgoods and bags meet the highest standards of environmental responsibility, consumer safety, and resource conservation.

For more information on all of Burton’s sustainability efforts, check out www.burton.com/sustainability. To get involved with Protect Our Winters, head to www.protectourwinters.org

About Protect Our Winters
Protect Our Winters is the environmental center point of the winter sports community, united towards a common goal of reducing climate change's effects on our sport and local mountain communities. With over 50,000 supporters worldwide, POW re-invests contributions in educational initiatives, activism and supporting community-based initiatives that have tangible results. For more information, visit protectourwinters.org.

Maxence Parrot wins Monster Energy's The Shred Show Big Air

Mon, 22 Apr 2013 12:53:00 -0400

It was a fitting end to an incredible week at Canada’s biggest snowboard contest, the World Snowboard Tour 5Star Monster Energy Shred Show. Combined with the world-class Slopestyle event on Friday, the Big Air event, held Saturday night at the base of Whistler Mountain signaled the return of legitimacy to the World Ski and Snowboard Festival’s snowboard side by bringing some of the top names in the world to compete. As the saying goes if you’re giving away crowns and over $50,000 dollars in prize money, they will come. And when it comes to putting on awesome events, Monster Energy doesn’t mess around.

In front of thousands of cheering fans, a field of 31 riders battled in qualifiers after a grueling, but crowd-entertaining, practice session that saw more than its share of slams as shreds tried to negotiate their speed during falling temperatures. It narrowed the group down to 10 finalists who would each have two runs, the best of them counting towards a potential victory.

From an international field, it was Canada’s Maxence Parrot who solidified his win—and $15,000 cheque—in his first of two runs with a near perfect Backside Triple Cork 1440. To celebrate his win he took his second run as a victory lap, cranking a huge Method to the crowd’s enthusiastic applause.

“I was really surprised to stomp the Triple the first try, I brought it around very fast but it was difficult,” says Parrot, who also placed 5^th in Friday’s 5Star Slopestyle. “I am only used to doing it on a lot bigger jumps than this one.”

It’s been a banner, groundbreaking season for Parrot, won a silver medal in Slopestyle at the 6Star X Games Aspen in January and first place at the O’Neill Evolution Big Air the week before.

Norway’s Kim Rune Hansen took second place with 93.25-scoring Switch Backside Double Cork 1260. Hansen took 3^rd place at Austria’s 5Star Spring Battle last month. Rounding out the podium was American Justin Morgan, who scored a 90.25 for a Switch Backside Double Cork 1260 Stalefish. 

“I think the event is great, Big Air is always a show, there is a good crowd, the music is right there which is pretty insane,” adds Parrot. “The crowd is pretty nuts, they’re screaming, that is what makes the contest really fun.

“Big Air is always fun because you only have one hit so it’s all in, you give all you have. This being a 5Star event really gets all the pro riders here evolving the contest and making it harder,” he says. “For me Whistler is the best place ever, maybe in Canada.”     

Check out the videos of the event HERE and the photos below. Here’s the Top 10.

1. Maxence Parrot 96.50 (CAN) 

2. Kim Rune Hansen 93.25 (NOR) 

3. Justin Morgan 90.25 (USA) 

4. Sage Kotsenburg 87.00 (USA) 

5. Matts Kulisek 80.25 (CAN) 

6. Carlos Gerber 79.25 (SUI) 

7. Emil Ulsletten 77.00 (NOR) 

8. Darcy Sharpe 62.50 (CAN) 

9. Eric Willett 23.25 (USA) 

10. Nicholas Julius 12.75 (USA) 

Winner Maxence Parrot during qualifiers.

Canadian Slopestyle Team member, Charles Reid during qualifiers.

Qualifiers, under the watchful eye of the law.

Charles Reid, under the not-so-watchful eye of the law.

Dropping in on the 70-degree ramp.

Maxence Parrot during the finals.

Sage Kostenburg.

Second place, Kim Rune Hansen.

The podium, left to right: Kim Rune Hansen, Maxence Parrot and Justin Morgan.

Emil Ulsletten wins Monster Energy's The Shred Show Slopestyle

Sat, 20 Apr 2013 12:37:00 -0400

Weather was once again the story Friday at the TTR 5-Star Slopestyle event at Monster Energy's The Shred Show at the World Ski and Snowboard Festival as fog, snow and sunshine competed with each other for dominance almost as much as the international field of competitors.

When all was said and done, Norwegian Emil Ulsletten (who qualifed in 10th place) ended up the winner, beating out American slope veteran Eric Willet, and Canadian come-up Tyler Nicholson with his run consisting of a Blunt 270 on the first down rail, 50-50 FS 3 to Tuck Knee on the rail to cliff drop, a Front Double 10 on the first kicker, BS 3 on the shootout rail, Back 9 and a Cab Double 9.

"I was pretty lucky in qualifiers and finals because the conditions were really tough," he says. "I was trying to play safe in the qualifiers and I just made it. I was thinking that in the finals there's like... I don't want to get 10th in the finals so I just tried to do my best."

And his best here was enough to win the day and a $15,000 novelty cheque for his efforts. The Shred Show conitinues Saturday night with the TTR 5-Star Big Air event right at the base of Whistler Mountain.

"[Monster Energy's The Shred Show] is a cool event for sure," says Ulsletten right after his win. "It's got one of the best parks I've ever ridden. The snow conditions were really tough, but that's not Whistler's fault. I think everything here is really well-organized. I think it's a really good event."

Click here for the video, and check out the photos of the day just below.

Maxence Parrot

Jon Versteeg

Darcy Sharpe

One of a couple of the day's flash snowstorms...

Second place finisher Eric Willet.

The VIP lounge...

Winner Emil Ulsletten on the shootout rail.

Left to right, Tyler Nicholson, Emil Ulsletten and Eric Willet.

GUS KENWORTHY AND MAGGIE VOISIN CROWNED MEN & WOMEN'S SLOPESTYLE CHAMPIONS AT WSSF

Tue, 16 Apr 2013 13:28:00 -0400

WHISTLER, B.C. – Americans Gus Kenworthy and Maggie Voisin took home the men’s and women’s Slopestyle wins at the 2013 Association of Freeskiing Professionals (AFP) World Skiing Invitational (WSI) at the 18th Annual World Ski and Snowboard Festival in Whistler, B.C.

Kenworthy, who currently holds the top AFP men’s overall world ranking, was the top qualifier for the ten man final and last to drop in on each of the two finals runs. Scoring a 93.67 on his first run, Kenworthy cruised to the win with a second run victory lap.

Coming in just behind Kenworthy was American Nick Goepper, scoring a 93 on his second run, landing a switch double cork misty rodeo 1260 on the bottom jump. Australian Russ Henshaw finished in third spot with a score of 92.67, landing a double cork 1260 tail grab on the final jump. Canadian Alex Beaulieu-Marchand just missed the podium in fourth place with a score of 92.

In the women’s final, Maggie Voisin scored a 90 on her first of two runs to take the victory. Norwegian Tiril Christiansen finished in second place with a score of 88, and Jamie Crane-Mauzy of the United States rounded out the podium with a score of 81.67. Whistler local and hometown favorite Yuki Tsubota finished in fourth place, crashing on the last jump of her second run.

The WSI wrapped up last night with the 2013 AFP Awards Dinner, where the top overall ranked men’s and women’s skiers each took home the Sarah Burke Memorial Trophy.

The sports action will continue at the World Ski and Snowboard Festival with The Shred Show, Presented by Monster Energy snowboarding events. The Shred Show will feature Boarderstyle in the Blackcomb Terrain Park on Thursday, April 18, Slopestyle on Friday, April 19, in the Blackcomb Highest Level Terrain Park, and Big Air on Saturday April 20, in Skiers Plaza at the Base of Whistler Mountain. Both the Slopestyle and Big Air contests will be World Snowboard Tour 5 Star Events. Live scoring and results can be found online at http://live.eim-solutions.com/shredshow2013

Geoff Jansen photo.

VINCENT GAGNIER WINS 2013 WORLD SKIING INVITATIONAL BIG AIR

Sun, 14 Apr 2013 07:42:00 -0400

Gus Kenworthy And Henrik Harlaut Also On Podium

WHISTLER, BC, April 14, 2013 – In front of a packed crowd of spectators in Skiers Plaza at the base of Whistler Mountain, Vincent Gagnier took the top spot in the 2013 Association of Freeskiing Professionals (AFP) World Skiing Invitational (WSI) Big Air contest at the 18th annual World Ski and Snowboard Festival in Whistler, BC.

Qualifying for the eight man final in last spot, Gagnier scored a 92 on his second of two jumps landing a double cork bio 1080 octograb on the 65’ step over big air jump. Gagnier took home $5000 in prize money, and improved upon his second place finish in last year’s contest.

Last year’s champion Gus Kenworthy found the podium finishing in second place with a score of 91, landing a double cork 1660, and taking home $3500. Henrik Harlaut finished third and earned $1500 with his nose butter double cork 1440.

Hip hop legend Nas entertained the crowd at the World Ski and Snowboard Festival Main Stage after the Big Air contest as the headliner of the free Outdoor Concert Series.

The AFP World Championships World Skiing Invitational will continue on Sunday April 14, with Men’s Slopestyle Qualifiers taking place from 11:45am – 3:00pm, in the Blackcomb Highest Level Terrain Park. Men’s and Women’s Slopestyle Finals will take place Monday April 15, from 10:45am – 3:00pm. Live scoring and results can be found online http://live.eim-solutions.com/wsi2013

Geoff Jansen photo

The World Ski & Snowboard Festival is produced by Watermark Communications, a Whistler‐based event production & communications company, and presented in partnership with Tourism Whistler and Whistler Blackcomb. Having grown over 18 years into the largest annual winter sports and music festival in North America, the World Ski & Snowboard Festival is a 10 day and night showcase of the best of snow sports, music, arts and mountain culture. Featuring major professional ski and snowboarding competitions, the largest annual free outdoor concert series in Canada, cultural events that match up art‐lovers with the art‐makers, career‐making fashion, photography and film showcases, the best spring snow conditions in the world, and burn‐the candle at both ends nightlife, the World Ski and Snowboard Festival is the poster child for the ultimate ski and snowboard festival experience. In blazing the way for the youth of tomorrow, the World Ski and Snowboard Festival embodies the mantra: ‘Party in April. Sleep in May.’

Monster Energy presents The Shred Show Apr. 18-20 at Whistler Festival

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 14:26:00 -0400

Monster Energy presents The Shred Show, a World Snowboard Tour 5-Star Slopestyle and Big Air and featuring the 3rd annual Monster Energy Boarderstyle.

Anchoring the final weekend of Whistler's famed World Ski & Snowboard Festival, the Shred Show runs from April 18-20 with three back to back events and nightly after-parties. With a total of $25,000 prize purse and three years in the making, the Shred Show has become one of the sickest snowboard events around.

The event kicks off with Boarderstyle on Thursday April 18 pitting four riders at a time in a head-to-head boardercross-style race integrated with big slopestyle features.

Friday April 19 showcases the future Olympic stars of the upcoming 2014 Winter Games in a battle for World Tour points at the Blackcomb Park course, one of the most challenging in the world.

The Shred Show wraps up with the grand finale Big Air at the Whistler Village base complete with live music, parties and thousands of spectators. No ordinary Big Air, The Shred Show Big Air always keeps things interesting with the latest progression in big trick features.

A hot weekend expected at Mont-Sainte-Anne: Featuring Reggae style and biking

Thu, 11 Apr 2013 11:02:00 -0400

After two incredible weekends of the Spring Madness and awesome concerts, the atmosphere of this 3rd weekend of festivities will be hot, for sure! Summer time!

SATURDAY, APRIL 13
Cyclo-Puces: From 9am to 1pm, in the Main Lodge, sellers and buyers are invited to participate in our 1st market of used bike equipments. Table booking is mandatory for $5 via the Mont-Sainte-Anne customer service. Money raised will be donated to the Club Cycliste MSA.

Outdoor concert of Jah & I: The Jamaican singer Daddy Rushy will be there to thrill the crowd with his band. After his visit at the famous Festival d’été de Québec last summer, the band will fire up Mont-Sainte-Anne and will captivate the audience using hot and festive rhythms of reggae. Free concert, starting at 4pm on the main stage located at the base of the mountain [in case of rain, the event will be held inside]. Be ready and adopt the reggae style with this quick preview at: http://www.myspace.com/jahandiriseagain

ALL WEEKEND
In addition to our special activities, the Spring Madness tradition also includes outdoor spas, BBQs, inflatable games and on-mountain Sugar Shack!

PLAN YOUR SPRING ESCAPE
Mont-Sainte-Anne must be dazed by the sun, making you a compelling offer of a night and a ski day, starting at $64*/person. *Certain conditions may apply.

Book online at: http://www.fun2ski.com/Packages/tabid/64/language/en-US/Default.aspx?id=8 or call 1.800.463.1568.

9,836 shares, 9,836 trees to be planted at Mont SUTTON

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 19:30:00 -0400

Mont SUTTON has announced today on its Facebook page the number of trees to be planted, following the initiative “Share and Reforest” which has been posted lately on facebook.com/montsutton. From March 28 to April 7, Mont SUTTON posted five of its eco-friendly actions and the Facebook community was invited to share each of these actions. The objective of this initiative, among others, is to plant trees on the mountain to contribute to the regeneration of the forest, and to inform Mont SUTTON’s Facebook fans about the eco-friendly actions, whom will in turn inform their friends and put these eco-friendly actions into practice.

A total of 9,836 trees will be planted, thanks to 9,836 shares of the eco-friendly actions from Mont SUTTON’s Facebook page. The mountain, already well-known for its unique concept of glade skiing and its eco-friendly philosophy, will start planting trees this spring and, based on a comprehensive reforestation plan, will be spread over the next few years.

“Planting trees is one of our eco-friendly actions, among others. To inform people about the actions already in place – such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions with the action “Turn off your engine” or by publishing carpooling offer on the e-board on montsutton.com, is another one. By sharing eco-friendly actions, people inform, in turn, their friends, who will inform other friends and on… The viral side of "sharing" is a great opportunity to inform people of our eco-friendly actions – actions they will then keep in mind,” said Jean-Michel Ryan, Mont SUTTON’s general manager.

Photos of the tree planting will be posted on facebook.com/montsutton, this spring, as soon as the plantation starts.

All Mont SUTTON’s eco-friendly actions are compiled together on SUTTON’s Conscience Code, which is available on montsutton.com/eco.

Stan Rey Wins Monster Energy Enemy Lines

Wed, 10 Apr 2013 11:13:00 -0400

Stan Rey of Whistler took home $5000 and bragging rights with his exciting win of the innaugral Monster Energy Enemy Lines at Fernie Resort. Despite a shortened mountain course due to unseasonably warm weather and the associated avalanche risk nixing plans to start from the top of the iconic Lizard Headwall that towers above Fernie, the unique Enemy Lines event still delivered a wild, big mountain chinese downhill-style dash for cash.

As soon as the eclectic mix of ski stars from big mountain freeski through to skiercross race dropped, following a shotgun start courtesy of big mountain legend Dan Treadway, it was clear that Enemy Lines was going to live up to it's hype as an incredible, balls out, big mountain freeski race. Watching 25 skiers charge en masse, choosing different hair ball lines, it brought to real life, the crazy-fun visuals of the 70's cult ski film "Hot Dog". Check the Enemy Lines video footage below to see for yourself.

"It was pretty crazy; big airs, passing people, the conditions weren't great but they ended getting off a great event and we all had a bunch of fun as you can see," declared Stan Rey, the ex Canadian Alpine Team and World Cup Skiercross racer.

One can only imagine what an amazing race Monster Energy Enemy Lines would be with a start drop from the top of the Lizard Headwall and it's 1200 ft vert of insane terrain in play.

Dan Treadway - shotgun start!

Fernie local Luke Nelson finished second followed by Rory Bushfield. After Rey was awarded his cash, the rest of the Enemy Lines competitors split the remaining $15,000 purse, so no one left empty handed which made for an equally insane after-party to match the race at Fernie's Grizz Bar.

Based on the success of this year's ground breaking event, Monster Energy says it's already making plans with Fernie Resort for next year's Enemy Lines. More event info and coverage at www.EnemyLines.MonsterEnergy.com.

Jessika Jenson Defends Flaunt It Title

Tue, 09 Apr 2013 13:49:00 -0400

The Billabong Flaunt It Finals went down this weekend at Sierra-at-Tahoe on Saturday, with Jamie Anderson co-hosting the event at her home resort. Jessika Jenson from Kelly Canyon, Idaho was the defending champion, who again came out on top pocketing the $5,000 USD Slopestyle cheque.

Jenson impressed the judges (which included guest snowboard legend Chad Otterstrom) all day long with her variety of style and progression. Jenson’s first place run started with a switch frontboard 270 out on the box, to cab 540 to backside 540 on the jumps, and finished off her run with a switch boardslide 270 out on the down tube. Canada’s Samm Denena came in second incorporating a stylish backside rodeo 540 in her run, with third place going to Michelle Zeller from Colorado.

The afternoon rail jam featured an assortment of four rails with a variation of down rails, tubes and close outs. The ladies rode the setup with confidence and threw down impressive tricks. LeJawn Allen from Utah locked down first place with a hardway frontside 180- switch backside 180 out on the down tube, before an epic bail on a later attempt took her out of the contest. Lynn Neil from Utah came close by in second with a switch frontside lipslide 270 off the down tube, followed by Jessika Jenson with a switch boardslide 270 off.

Jennifer Englot took home her second Nixon Style Award of the series with her late backside 180’s, and Jessica Gibson claimed the VonZipper Ragdoll award and a brand new pair of goggles for her efforts.

Thank you to all our sponsors and supporters, including Aston Lakeland Village Resort for accommodations in South Lake Tahoe. Thank you to Evolution Physical Therapy for providing physiotherapy services treating the competitors with expertise.

Billabong Flaunt It Finals is proudly supported by VonZipper, Dakine, Nixon, Snowboard Canada Women’s Annual, Snowboarder Magazine, Luna Bar and Chipotle Mexican Grill.

Jessika Jenson

Kirra Kotsenburg

Rebecca Bruce

Chloe Palmer

Jenna Blasman

Samm Denena

Slopestyle Winners
1^st: Jessika Jenson (Ride, 32, Electric, Sandbox, US Snowboarding)
2^nd: Samm Denena (Roxy, Nibz, Detour, Kahuna)
3^rd: Michelle Zeller (GNU, Roxy, Smith, FLUX)
4^th: Jenna Blasman (Billabong, VonZipper, GNU)
5^th: Rebecca Bruce (Forum)

Rail Jam Winners
1^st: LeJawn Allen
2^nd: Lynn Neil (Roxy, Smith, Monster)
3^rd: Jessika Jenson (Ride, 32, Electric, Sandbox, US Snowboarding)
4^th: Samm Denena (Roxy, Nibz, Detour, Kahuna)
5^th: Mariah Dugan (Arbour, Flux, Smith, Outdoor Tech)

Dakine Best Trick: Samm Denena $200 (Roxy, Nibz, Detour, Kahuna)

Nixon Style Award: Jennifer Englot (Unlimited Skate and Snow, Long Collective, VonZipper, Burton “Know Buddy”)

VZ Rag Doll Award: Jessica Gibson (Arcade Belts, Mountain Riders)

720 for $700: Michelle Zeller (GNU, Roxy, Smith, FLUX)

For all tour information, including registration, visit www.billabongflauntit.com or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/billabongflauntit.

Spring Madness going strong at Mont-Sainte-Anne

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 12:06:00 -0400

This weekend, Mont-Sainte-Anne’s Spring Madness festival will certainly be crowded again, thanks to a jam-packed schedule catering to all interests.

Details

SATURDAY, APRIL 6
The Banked Slalom is a NEW EVENT exclusively offered to snowboarders! Open to all, this friendly event offers Team [mixed] and Individual categories. Your best run of 2 will count for classification! It starts at 10:30am [registration and practice before].
To win: money prizes and thematic gifts / Cost: $20 per person, including a beer and a hot dog

At 3pm, turn to Karim Ouellet, author / singer / songwriter pop, from Dakar, to show off on the outdoor scene.

ALL WEEKEND
A few SLACK LINE pros will be onsite all weekend offering demos and initiation classes to all! Our Spring Madness traditions also include outdoor spas, BBQs, inflatable games and on-mountain Sugar Shack.

SUNDAY, APRIL 7 – LE YETI’S BIRTHDAY
The party will go on for our beloved mascot LE YETI’s Birthday! For the occasion, children are invited to give away their used toys to YETI, which will donate them back to needy children. So generous, The YETI also shares his gigantic Birthday mascot cake with the young… and the young at heart! A DJ will entertain the base of the mountain all afternoon.

PLAN YOUR SPRING ESCAPE
Mont-Sainte-Anne must be dazed by the sun, making you a compelling offer of a night and a ski day, starting at $64*/person. *Certain conditions may apply.

Book online here or call 1.800.463.1568.

Billabong Flaunt It Finals with Jamie Anderson Wraps up at Sierra-at-Tahoe this weekend

Wed, 03 Apr 2013 12:01:00 -0400

The Flaunt It Finals, with 5 time X Games gold medalist Jamie Anderson arrive at Sierra-at-Tahoe, CA this upcoming weekend. The final stop is a 4 star World Snowboard Tour event with a $10,000 cash purse, where winners from the previous five (5) Flaunt It events are flying in to compete with a total of 50 competitors from all over North America. The finals are open to all riders, no need to pre-qualify. Spaces are limited, so sign up to secure your spot in advance: www.billabongflauntit.com/registration.

Evolution Physical therapy is the first, sole Physical Therapy provider for the Billabong Flaunt It Finals. All registered riders in need of Physio care during Flaunt It will be able to take advantage of the services provided including: injury evaluation and assessment, athletic taping including KT Tape, massage, joint mobilization including spinal manipulation, modalities as needed, and injury prevention techniques.

Lakeland Village Resort is offering a group rate for competitors to book accommodation for the event. The resort is lakeside, in a prime location in South Lake Tahoe just a short drive from the mountain. For more information on how to book please visit: www.billabongflauntit.com.

OFFICIAL SCHEDULE:

Practice Day: April 5th, 2013
12:00-3:00 PM Registration
12:00-4:00 PM Practice

Flaunt It FINALS: April 6th, 2013
8:00-9:00 AM                                        Registration
10:00 AM                                              Riders Meeting
9:00-10:30 AM                                      Practice
10:30-12:30 PM                                    Slopestyle Jam
12:30-1:30 PM                                      Lunch
1:45-2:45 PM                                        Rail Jam
3:00 PM                                                Awards

Weather Day: April 7^th, 2013

FINALS CASH BREAKDOWN:

Slopestyle
1st: $5000.00
2nd: $2000.00
3rd: $1000.00
4th: $300.00
5th: $150.00

Rail Jam
1st: $700.00
2nd: $300.00
3rd: $200.00
4th: $100.00
5th: $50.00

Dakine Best Trick
$200.00 + Dakine Prizing

Nixon Style Award
Nixon RPM Headphones + Nixon TPS Speakers

VonZipper Ragdoll Award
VZ Goggles & Shades

Billabong Flaunt It Finals is proudly supported by VonZipper, Dakine, Nixon, Snowboard Canada Women’s Annual, Snowboarder Magazine, Luna Bar and Chipotle Mexican Grill.

For all tour information, including registration, visit www.billabongflauntit.com or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/billabongflauntit.

Exceptional Spring Skiing at Mont SUTTON

Mon, 01 Apr 2013 13:12:00 -0400

Hard to believe, you might say… While the fields bordering the highways are completely uncovered of snow, Mont SUTTON still offers exceptional skiing on almost 100% of its skiable terrain, with incredibly snowy conditions for this time of year! There is still a lot of fun to have on the slopes, knowing that spring skiing always means “Festive mood”!

When we take a look at the photo gallery on montsutton.com, we can say that the best of the spring skiing is still to come!

March 30, Mont SUTTON

March 30, area of chairlift VII at Mont SUTTON

March 30 at Mont SUTTON

Easter Egg Hunt on the trails, March 30, Mont SUTTON

Upcoming top spring events
The top spring events are coming soon at Mont SUTTON : the Snow on the Beach, this Saturday April 6!

And the Réal’s Challenge might take place on April 13… knowing that this “surprise activity” is always confirmed at the last minute on Mont SUTTON’s website…

For unlimited spring skiing at Mont SUTTON until the end of the season, don’t miss out on the Spring Pass, for $99 plus taxes! This is definitely the best spring offer!

Details and more spring promotions: http://www.montsutton.com/promo

Monster Energy Enemy Lines - Fernie, April 5-6

Wed, 27 Mar 2013 12:14:00 -0400

Just announced, the inaugural “Monster Energy Enemy Lines” at Fernie Resort, April 5-6 featuring 26 of the world's top big mountain skiers in the most incredible chinese downhill of all time.

It's a winner-take-all, no holds barred, balls out, big mountain freeskiing race!

Dropping en masse from the top of Fernie's infamous and permanently closed “Lizard Headwall” between Polar and Grizzly Peaks and racing down 3,550 feet of vertical to the bottom of the mountain for $20,000 cash for the first to the finish at the resort village.

Here's what Monster Energy had to say: "Enemy Lines" is not the first of it’s kind, however, it’s the first time in history (so far as we know) that this type of race, made famous in the cult ski film “Hot Dog,” will take place as a professional sport with the first one across the finish line winning not only bragging rights but the big cheque as well."Check out the Monster Energy Enemy Lines teaser video below.

The Lizzard Headwall which towers above Fernie Resort has been permanently closed to skiers for the past two decades. But with lots of named lines like 8 Ball, Spine Tingler, Curve Ball, Plastic Jesus, and JIJO you know the Headwwall is a storied descent, making the anticipation of Monster Energy Enemy Lines all the more heightened.

The Enemy Lines Qualifier, on Friday, April 5th will also be an insane event to see. It's a timed seeding race that will start at the top of Polar Peak, in terrain that is also permanently closed to skiers, and finishes near Giggly Gully at the bottom of the Lizard Bowl.

Friday, April 5
11m-4pm: Qualifiers

Saturday, April 6
12-7pm: Village beer gardens featuring Dj Pump, DJ Illo and Vinyl Ritchie
4pm: Monster Energy Enemy Lines start, weather permitting.
8:30pm-1am: Monster Energy After Party at Grizz Bar

The iconic "Headwall" towers above Fernie

Christian Primrose lands a Triple Cork in Ontario

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:52:00 -0400

Triple corking Christian Primrose, Richard Roth photo.

Say what you want about the double and triple cork culture, but there’s no denying that they’re damn impressive to watch and a definite crowd pleaser. This is only amplified when the person throwing them is a relatively unknown kid from Ontario who doesn’t have energy drink logos on every inch of his gear.

History was made at the 9th Annual Quiksilver Downlow in Mount St Louis Moonstone’s Outback Terrain Park when Christian Primrose grabbed indy, dumped it over three times and rode away as the first person in Ontario to land a triple cork on Sunday.

“I honestly thought to myself on the day of the comp, there would be no way I can do a triple off this [jump]. I hit it for my first time when big air started and got really comfortable with the jump by doing my back 7 tail first, and then right into my double cork 10. The double was super slow and I said to myself, ‘I can do this, it’s just all about holding on to the grab, throwing it a little bit harder and just looking for that landing!’ Little Coulton Conway helped me by just telling me what I was and wasn’t doing, so he helped me land that trick!”

He may have ridden away with his hands up like he just won X Games Gold, but who cares? For those of us that know him, it wasn’t a claim, it’s just his way of showing how stoked he is. Primrose knows how to whip the crowd into a frenzy, and obviously knows how to catch the judge’s attention as he walked away with the Overall Downlow Championship.

The Gathering - Presented by Salomon

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 14:26:00 -0400

Rossland, B.C. - The remarkable convergence of international adventurers, pro photographers and a cast of vibrant Kootenay characters, better known as the Gathering, is back in Rossland for a 5th year, March 25-31, 2013. Organized by RED Mountain Resort, The Gathering is a community festival celebrating mountain culture, adventure and experiences through storytelling and sharing.

New this year, The Gathering is offering free on-snow events and clinics for the public at RED. Saturday’s Matinee events include the opening of Rossland’s Ski and Mining Museum and an exhibit in the Rossland Art Gallery.

Friday, March 29th and Saturday, March 30th the All-Star Film and Photo Nights showcase incredible presentations from The Gathering’s guest presenters. Emceed by Mitch Scott, Senior Correspondent with Powder Magazine and publisher of Kootenay Mountain Culture Magazine, both nights will feature a talented line up of entertaining presenters including:

-Pro Photographer Alexa Miller with Powder Mag’s Mike Rogge –http://www.alexamiller.com/ & http://mikerogge.tumblr.com/
-Pro Photographer Blake Jorgenson – http://www.blakejorgenson.com/
-Pro Photographer Mason Mashon- http://voleurz.com/people/mason_mashon
-Pro Photographer Reuben Krabbe - http://www.reubenkrabbe.com/
-Red Bull Pro Photographer Bryan Ralph – http://www.ralphie.ca/
-Pro Photographer and adventurer Steve Ogle – http://www.steveogle.ca/
-Local Pro Athletes Dane Tudor – http://danetudor.com/
-Local Pro Athlete Colston VB http://www.newschoolers.com/readnews/4775.0/Get-To-Know-Colston-VB
-Pro Photographer Hank DeVre - www.hankdevrephotography.com/ http://www.hankdevrephotography.com/
-Pro Photographer and Local Rosslander Francois Marseille - http://www.francoismarseille.com/
-Pro Photographer Ace Kvale with Pro Athlete Kasha Rigby - http://www.acekvale.com/ & http://www.kasharigby.com/
-Pro Photographer Workshop host Mark Shapiro - http://www.markoshapiro.com/
-Newschoolers.com Editor Jeff Schmuck - http://www.newschoolers.com/
-Pro Photographer and adventurer John Morrison - http://www.johnmorrisonphotographer.com

For more details, or to purchase tickets, please call 250-362-7384 or visit http://gathering.redresort.com

Flaunt It Gets Loony

Tue, 26 Mar 2013 11:17:00 -0400

Billabong Flaunt It arrived at Loon Mountain New Hampshire for the very first time this weekend bringing smiles to park riders from all over New England and Quebec. The ladies set forth to showcase their skills on a progressive set up built to perfection.

New Hampshire’s 14 year old Nora Healey caught the eyes of the judges early on and solidified her win with a run consisting of frontside 540’s and solid rail riding. Healey will be joining the four other Flaunt It tour slopestyle winners in Sierra-at-Tahoe for the final stop of the series in two weeks, where riders will compete for a $10,000 cash purse. Loon Mountain’s Mary Rand took second and Maggie Leon from Killington placed third.

The rail jam featured six rail options allowing the girls to step it up, get creative and throw down some impressive tricks. Theresa Kewley was not fazed by the staircase, and locked into a flawless frontside 180 onto the down-flat rail securing first place. Nora Healey came in second followed closely by Mary Rand.

Healey collected the Dakine Best Trick Award for her frontside 540 on the last jump, and the Nixon Style Award was given to Lily Calabrese for her stylish rail riding. Melissa Morin earned the VonZipper Ragdoll award and took home a couple of battle wounds.

Billabong Flaunt It is proudly supported by VonZipper, Dakine, Nixon, Snowboard Canada Women’s Annual, and Snowboarder Magazine.

Rail Jam setup

Quebec rider Anne-Fred Grenier

Flaunt It's youngest competitor, 6-year-old Pippa Scott

Lily Calabrese boardslide

Mary Rand coming out of the cannon box

Mary Rand

Slopestyle Winners
1^st: Nora Healey $700 + Flight and Accommodation to Finals in Tahoe (Lahouts, Waterville Valley Resort, WVBBTS/SEF)
2^nd: Mary Rand $500 (Loon, Civil, 32, V2, Volcom, Ass Industries, Rome)
3^rd: Maggie Leon $300 (Capita, Union, 32, Killington Parks, Darkside, Smith Helmets, VonZipper, Roar Sports Drink, Original Skateboards, Snuglife)
4^th: Molly Turner
5^th: Katie Kennedy

Rail Jam Winners
1^st: Theresa Kewley $250
2^nd: Nora Healey $100 (Lahouts, Waterville Valley Resort, WVBBTS/SEF)
3^rd: Mary Rand $50 (Loon, Civil, 32, V2, Volcom, Ass Industries, Rome)

Dakine Best Trick: Nora Healey $100 (Lahouts, Waterville Valley Resort, WVBBTS/SEF)

Nixon Style Award: Lily Calabrese (Niche Snowboards, Darkside, UVMST)

VZ Rag Doll Award: Melissa Morin (The Snowboard Shack)

Series Schedule:
January 26^th: Blue Mountain, ON
February 9^th: Lake Louise, AB
February 16^th: Big White, BC
March 10^th (Sunday): Mont Saint-Sauveur, QC
March 23^rd: Loon Mountain, NH
April 6^th: Finals with Jamie Anderson: Sierra-at-Tahoe, CA

For all tour information, including registration, visit www.billabongflauntit.com or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/billabongflauntit.

96-hour sale, up to 60% off from the slopes to the seas

Wed, 20 Mar 2013 22:32:00 -0400

96-Hour Sale Runs March 19–March 22

BROOMFIELD, Colo. – Lock in the best savings from slopes to seas with the 96-hour sale across Vail Resorts and RockResorts destinations in Colorado, Lake Tahoe, Wyoming and Montego Bay, Jamaica. Starting Tuesday, March 19 at 12:01 a.m. (Mountain Standard Time), Vail Resorts and RockResorts will offer 96 hours of the guaranteed lowest lodging rates of the season, ending at 11:59 p.m. on March 22.

The 96-hour sale is a great opportunity for travelers to book vacations with Vail Resorts operated lodging properties in Colorado (Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone), Lake Tahoe (Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood) and Wyoming (Grand Teton Lodge Company), as well as RockResorts’ collection of luxury resorts including The Arrabelle at Vail Square and The Lodge at Vail in Vail, Colo.; The Osprey at Beaver Creek and The Pines Lodge in Beaver Creek, Colo.; One Ski Hill Place in Breckenridge, Colo.; and Half Moon in Rose Hall, Jamaica.

Bookings for the 96-hour sale must be made online, ONLY at http://rockresorts.com/96HourSale. This offer is based on availability and some blackout dates apply. The offer is valid for new bookings only, and cannot be combined with any other offers. All reservations booked through the 96-hour sale are non-refundable.

About Vail Resorts
Vail Resorts, Inc., through its subsidiaries, is the leading mountain resort operator in the United States. The Company's subsidiaries operate the mountain resorts of Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge and Keystone in Colorado; Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in the Lake Tahoe area of California and Nevada; Afton Alps in Minnesota and Mt. Brighton in Michigan; and the Grand Teton Lodge Company in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. The Company's subsidiary, RockResorts, a luxury resort hotel company, manages casually elegant properties. Vail Resorts Development Company is the real estate planning, development and construction subsidiary of Vail Resorts, Inc. Vail Resorts is a publicly held company traded on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: MTN). The Vail Resorts company website is www.vailresorts.com <http://www.vailresorts.com/> and consumer website is www.snow.com <http://www.snow.com/> .

About RockResorts®
RockResorts <http://www.rockresorts.com> , a wholly owned subsidiary of Vail Resorts, owns and operates luxury resorts that offer casually elegant accommodations, lavish RockResorts Spas, renowned golf courses, award-winning dining and a variety of exciting outdoor adventures. The RockResorts collection includes The Arrabelle at Vail Square and The Lodge at Vail in Vail, Colo.; The Osprey at Beaver Creek and The Pines Lodge in Beaver Creek, Colo.; One Ski Hill Place in Breckenridge, Colo.; and Half Moon in Rose Hall, Jamaica.

SNOW Media Showcase Finals At Blue Mountain

Mon, 18 Mar 2013 18:56:00 -0400

Saturday March 16th – Blue Mountain’s second annual SNOW Media Showcase took place this past Saturday, March 16. The event encompasses three elements: an Artist’s Gallery, People’s Choice Awards and Overall Best in Show. This year the events team at Blue stepped up the prize money, and it definitely reflected in the overall quality of photo and film submissions.

Eight teams of five or less showcased five photos and one two-four minute video focussing on skiing and snowboarding in Ontario. The videos were premiered in front of a group of core locals and weekend guests at Blue Mountain Resort’s Village Conference Centre. With no idea of what the other teams were doing, each submission tackled a different angle of the winter lifestyle in our province. The crowd was treated to a wide range of documentaries, comedies and simple action videos that not only showcased the talented skiers and snowboarders that are coming out of Ontario, but also proved there’s a deep talent pool of local photographers and videographers who are poised to break out onto the scene.

Best In Show $3,000: Snowboarding Is… ( Richard Roth, Adam Bialo, Michael Rotsaert, Kyle Taylor, Andrew Skelhorn)
1st Runner Up Best Overall: Ancedote (Alex Bielawski, Connor Dudgeon, Danny Glibota, Mark Goodall, Chris Fellner)
2nd Runner Up Best Overall: David Vanveen (David Vanveen, Kenny MacLaughlin, Dan Kitto)
People’s Choice Photo $500: Ancedote (Alex Bielawski, Connor Dudgeon, Danny Glibota, Mark Goodall, Chris Fellner)
People’s Choice Video $500: Snowboarding Is… ( Richard Roth, Adam Bialo, Michael Rotsaert, Kyle Taylor, Andrew Skelhorn)

Watch the Best In Show video below:

Video Submissions:
Anecdote (Alex Bielawski, Connor Dudgeon, Danny Glibota, Mark Goodall, Chris Fellner)
Finding Love (Erin Helstern, Erika Langman, Jessica Woolsey, Melissa Kurtin)
Josh Mac Media (Josh MacDonald, Kevin Konings, Jack Bernstein)
Metropolis Media (Cameron Keith, Max Vidricaire, Pat Zink, Matt Wilcox, Adam Finn)
Mountain Goat Film Company (Tom Strnad, Emerson MacNeil, Finley MacNeil)
Snowboarding Is… (Richard Roth, Adam Bialo, Michael Rotsaert, Kyle Taylor, Andrew Skelhorn)
David Vanveen (David Vanveen, Kenny MacLaughlin, Dan Kitto)
I’M`Mac (Max Wharin , Matt Konings, Brodey Wolfe, Julian Venditti Nick Venditti)

Duff Invitational Slopestyle this Sunday at Sun Peaks

Fri, 15 Mar 2013 11:25:00 -0400

Sun Peaks Resort will be hosting the Duff Invitational Slopestyle this Sunday, March 17 in the Rockstar Energy Terrain Park. Hometown hero Chris Dufficy will be present and throwing down alongside fellow pro friends.

Here's more info on this inaugural slopestyle event:

Format & Schedule
All riders will compete in a two-hour jam session, best run counts and top scoring riders will move onto the finals. Each rider will receive two runs in the finals, best of the two counts. In the case of a tie, judges will use second run scores.

9:30am to 11:00am: Open practice

11:00am: Riders' meeting & Harlem Shake

11:30am: First rider drops in for a two-hour jam session. Riders will drop into the course one at a time by course marshall.

2:00pm: Finals

4:00pm: Awards and prizing, Bottoms Patio.

Judging Criteria
Entrants will be judged on:
*No compulsory tricks and no points designated for any specific tricks during course of regular contest, exceptions listed below for additional SBC Media presented contests.

1. Trick execution and difficulty
2. Progression
3. Variety
4. Risk

Snowboard Canada Backside 180 Contest
Snowboard Canada presents this additional challenge to crown the rider throwing down the steeziest back-one! *Prize pack provided by Snowboard Canada (SBC Media).

SBC Skier Daffy Contest
SBC Skier presents this additional retro challenge to crown the skier with the best Daffy! *Prize pack provided by SBC Skier (SBC Media).

Cash & Prizing
Thousands of dollars in cash money is up for grabs as well as tons of great prizing! Stay tuned for further details, coming soon.
*SBC Media Prize Packs for best backside 180 and best Daffy will include SBC limited edition Spy Goggles, Rip Curl outerwear, SBC Skier/Snowboard Canada limited edition t-shirts and subscriptions!

Categories
Women’s Open Snowboard: For female snowboarders 16+.
Women’s Open Ski: For female skiers 16+.
Men’s Open Snowboard: For male snowboarders 16+.
Men’s Open Ski: For male skiers 16+.

Rules & Regulations
> Entrants must be able to ride the advanced terrain park with confidence.
> All participants must have an alpine lift ticket or pass.
> Helmets are mandatory, so don't forget your lid.

*Event proceeds will be donated to the Kamloops Brain Injury Association.

Vail Resorts Announces Best Value on Lift Passes at Eight World-Class Resorts for the 2013-2014 Winter Season, As Well As Extended Free Access to Verbier for Epic Pass Holders

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 13:37:00 -0400

Vail Resorts Announces Best Value on Lift Passes at Eight World-Class Resorts for the 2013-2014 Winter Season, As Well As Extended Free Access to Verbier for Epic Pass Holders

Now Epic Pass holders receive five free days at Verbier, Switzerland

Ski Between Four and Six Days and Passes Pay for Themselves

Pay US$49 Down on a Pass Now and Lock in the Lowest Guaranteed Price for Next Winter’s Ski and Snowboard Season

BROOMFIELD, Colo. – Vail Resorts, Inc. (NYSE: MTN) is now selling their wildly popular Epic Pass for the 2013-2014 ski and ride season and today announced an extension on their partnership with Verbier, Switzerland. Last September, Vail Resorts announced an unprecedented partnership with Verbier that enhanced the already incredible value of the Epic Pass, providing three days of free access to the Verbier ski resort, for new and renewing 2012-2013 Epic Pass holders. Now, Vail Resorts is even further enhancing the value of the Epic Pass by extending the number of days of free access to Verbier from three to five. In addition to unlimited, unrestricted skiing and riding at eight world-class mountain resorts in the United States, Epic Pass holders have the opportunity to extend their winter from the U.S. to Europe for the second consecutive year, and experience the illustrious Verbier resort, Switzerland. With the Epic Pass, Epic Local Pass, and Epic 7-day, there’s a pass to suit everyone based on which resorts you want to ski and for how many days. Buy before April 14, 2013, to lock in the guaranteed lowest price for the 2013-2014 ski and ride season.

"Vail Resorts continues to look for opportunities to enhance the incredible value of the Epic Pass that our European guests already receive and enjoy. Following the success of our partnership with Verbier this season, we’re excited to be able to extend the number of free days access for the 2013-2014 season from three to five,” said Kirsten Lynch, executive vice president?and chief marketing officer?for Vail Resorts. “Epic Pass holders already enjoy an incredible experience with unlimited, unrestricted access to Vail Resorts’ seven world-class resorts in the United States, including Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, as well as Arapahoe Basin, but the addition of world-class skiing in Switzerland makes the Epic Pass even more compelling for our international guests. Verbier provides a truly exceptional ski and snowboard experience that offers the same incredible terrain and outstanding guest service that we provide at our seven world-class resorts.

VAIL + VERBIER 2-2-2

We are thrilled to welcome Verbier season pass holders to our resorts, as we did this year. We encourage all of our guests to purchase their passes now, to take advantage of the lowest guaranteed price for next winter season.”

Ensure that you receive the lowest prices on passes by purchasing now, and lock in early-bird lodging deals at Vail Resorts and Verbier: Save up to 33% off lodging at Vail’s premier properties, including The Lodge at Vail, A RockResort; The Arrabelle at Vail Square, A RockResort; The Ritz-Carlton Residences, Vail; and Austria Haus, when you stay 6 nights or more and book before October 31, 2013. This deal is available exclusively to Vail Resorts’ international guests when booked through Vail Resorts’ preferred travel partners in your local area, listed at www.snowusa.com.au

The unrestricted five free days of skiing and riding at Verbier will be reciprocated for Verbier season pass holders, allowing more European guests to experience Vail Resorts, including the award-winning application EpicMix. EpicMix offers a seamless and effortless way to digitally capture and share your mountain experience, tracking vertical feet skied, digital pins earnt for exploration and photos of your holiday that can be shared via Facebook and Twitter. At only US$689, the Epic Pass offers the best value lift ticket in the industry, paying itself off in just over five days.

Culminating at the top of the Mont-Fort Glacier (3,330m), Verbier is a paradise for all winter sports enthusiasts, from beginner to expert, boasting breathtaking views of the Rhone Valley and the infamous Matterhorn, and extend across to the Valais and Bernese Alps. Now, current and new Vail Resorts Epic Pass holders can access all of this for US$689 as well as

unlimited, unrestricted skiing at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin in Colorado and Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood in Lake Tahoe.

Vail Resorts also offers other pass options for our international guests next winter:

The Epic Local Pass™, Perfect for guests who can navigate a few more restrictions on their winter holiday. The Epic Local Pass for US$529 offers unlimited and unrestricted skiing at Breckenridge, Keystone and Arapahoe Basin with limited restrictions at Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood. Also includes a total of 10 days at Vail and Beaver Creek with US holiday restrictions. At the spring rate, the Epic Local Pass pays for itself in just over four days.

Epic 7-Day™ , Perfect for people who don’t plan to ski more than 7 days. The Epic 7-Day gives skiers and snowboarders a total of seven unrestricted days of skiing at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly and Northstar, plus Arapahoe Basin anytime during the season for a price of US$529. Ski any day of the season all season long. At the spring rate, the Epic 7-Day pays for itself in just over four days.

VAIL + VERBIER 3-3-3

Prices on Vail Resorts season passes are guaranteed for a limited time only, so act now. For more information or to purchase your pass, visit http://www.epicpass.com or find a Vail Resorts preferred travel partner in your local area, here http://www.snow.com/planavacation/international.aspx?cmpid=PARINT00001#/travelpartners

Season Pass Benefits
Access to Verbier is only provided to Epic Pass holders and not holders of other passes offered by Vail Resorts (Epic Local, Tahoe Local, Summit Value and Tahoe Value). In addition to the five days of free skiing at Verbier, Epic Pass and all Vail Resorts season pass holders will continue to receive exclusive offers on lodging, dining, ski rentals, equipment, ski school and special events for the 2013-2014 ski and snowboard season at Vail, Beaver Creek, Breckenridge, Keystone, Heavenly, Northstar and Kirkwood, as well as Arapahoe Basin. All season pass products are non-transferable and non-refundable.

Lowest Price Guarantee Only Available Through April 14, 2013
Skiers and riders should purchase their passes for next year now, as these prices and spring benefits are only guaranteed through April 14, 2013. Vail Resorts is also giving guests the option to lock in these prices with a US$49 down payment now with the remaining balance due in mid-September 2013. All passes are available for purchase on www.epicpass.com

Blue Mountain's Lifted Golden Ticket

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 13:14:00 -0400

Earlier this month over 50 riders ages 16 & under put their talent on the line at the Lifted Golden Ticket event hosted by Blue Mountain Resort.

The event follows a "scouting" format where athletes jam all morning in front of a panel of Reps, athletes & shop managers from Lifted Boardshop, Salomon Snowboards, Salomon Freestyle, Bonfire, Spy and Blue Mountain Resort. One skier and one snowboarder gets to walk away with a full outwear and gear sponsorship as well as a Super Pass to Blue Mountain Resort at the end of the day.

Athlete were given then entire terrain park to thrown down in front of panel on rails, jumps and pipe. After an hour deliberation five standout snowboarders, five standout skiers, two groms under 12 and two females were given their "Golden Ticket" into the finals.

Standout Female Skier: Rachel Anderson
Standout Female Snowboarder: Hillary Gardiner
Standout Grom 12 & Under Ski: Liam Crossan
Standout Grom 12 & Under Snowboard: Levi Maree

Top 5 Skiers
Angus Crossan
Gibson Bell
Hunter Anderson
Christian Stormgaard
Tony Peters

Top 5 Snowboarders
Gray Tuomi
Quin Thielmann
Lukas Schlums
Keenan Gibson
Jacob Logan

Finals ran as a jam format: 20 minutes on the jumps, 20 minutes on the rails and 20 minutes in the halfpipe. At the end of the day the following athletes took home their Willy Wonka sponsorship prize:

Snowboard Winner: Keenan Gibson
Full year sponsorship with Salomon Snowboards, Bonfire Outerwear, Spy, Lifted and a Superpass to Blue Mountain Resort.

Honourable Mention to: Grey Tuomi

Ski Winner: Christian Stormgaard
Full year sponsorship with Salomon Outerwear, Salomon Ski, Lifted and a Superpass to Blue Mountain Resort.

Honourable Mention: Gibson Bell

Flaunt It Hits La Belle Province

Wed, 13 Mar 2013 12:00:00 -0400

Flaunt It held its 5^th and final Canadian stop of the tour this past weekend at Mont Saint Sauveur, Quebec. The girls had wonderful spring conditions with a diverse course that catered to all levels. There were three rail decks with an assortment of rail features and two jump decks with three different sized jump options.

Tamara Truchon from Quebec City was on fire this weekend winning first in slopestyle, taking home $700 and a trip to the finals at Sierra-at-Tahoe. Additionally Truchon was first in the rail jam, and took home the Dakine Best Trick with a stylish front 360. Eve Liberte from Blainville came in second, and St Sauveur local Sam Rudinsky finished off in third.

The rail jam ended the day with two features for the girls to choose from; a long flat box and a round handrail. Truchon took first place in the rail jam with a frontside 50-50 to 180 out on the handrail. Camille Bellavance from Quebec City held down second place and Laliberte came in third.

Natasha Hebert’s style merited the Nixon Style award winning a set of Nixon RPM Headphones and TPS Speakers. Caroline Poole demonstrated a painful reverse taco and came out smiling when she won the VonZipper Ragdoll award.

Loon Mountain, NH is last stop on the tour before the Flaunt It Finals at Sierra-at-Tahoe!

Billabong Flaunt It is proudly supported by VonZipper, Dakine, Nixon, Snowboard Canada Women’s Annual, and Snowboarder Magazine.

Camille Bellavance, frontboard

Claudia Georgeff

Patricia Gauthier

Tamara Truchon

Slopestyle Winners
1^st: Tamara Truchon $700 + Flight and Accommodation to Finals in Tahoe (Burton, Anon, Homie’s)
2^nd: Eve Laliberte $500 (Performance Boarshop)
3^rd: Sam Rudinsky $300 (Liquid, Bern)
4^th: Tania Lavoie
5^th: Natasha Hebert (S3 Boardshop, Electric Visual)

Rail Jam Winners
1^st: Tamara Truchon $250 (Burton, Anon, Homie’s)
2^nd: Camille Bellavance $100 (Nitro Snowboard, DLX)
3^rd: Eve Laliberte $50 (Performance Boarshop)

Dakine Best Trick: Tamara Truchon $100 (Burton, Anon, Homie’s)

Nixon Style Award: Natasha Hebert (S3 Boardshop, Electric Visual)

VZ Rag Doll Award: Caroline Poole (Billabong Ambassador)

For all tour information, including registration, visit www.billabongflauntit.com or visit us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/billabongflauntit.

Snow Media Showcase: Photo Showdown Round 5

Tue, 12 Mar 2013 11:25:00 -0400

"One thing that defines skiing or snowboarding is that the sports lack a definition. Whether you're lapping the lift to hit a perfectly manicured jump, or busting your hump hiking a post-season rail setup, it's all good. Choose your side and submit your vote in this round of our Ski vs Snowboard Photo Showdown."

Photographer: Erin Langley, Skier: Matt Wilcox

Photographer: Travis McCormack, Rider: Josh Kunanec

Voting is now closed. Congrats to Travis McCormack for winning Round 5.

The winners of each battle will win a year-long subscription to SBC Skier or Snowboard Canada Magazine, and be entered to win the grand prize which will be awarded at the 2013 SNOW Media Showcase at Blue Mountain resort.

Lord of the Lines Snow at Mount Seymour

Mon, 11 Mar 2013 17:16:00 -0400

Matix, Coastal Riders and Mt. Seymour are proud to present the Second Annual Lord Of The Lines Snow.

Saturday, March 23rd in the Pit Park at Mt Seymour.

Over $2000 in Cash and Prizes up for Grabs.

Registration in the Hut at 9am
Event starts at 11am
Categories 15 & Under / 16 & Over
Free Entry with Donation to the Foodbank
Helmets and Waiver Mandatory

#LOTLSNOW

See you all there. Here's the poster:

Snow Media Showcase: Photo Showdown Round 4

Sun, 10 Mar 2013 12:03:00 -0400

Here we have our only two portrait photos, and it just so happens that they’re also both handrail shots. How convenient! Take a stand, plant your flag and pick which photo you think deserves to move on to the finals. As always, you’ll have 48 hours to cast your vote.

Photographer: Erin Helstern. Skier: Geoff Lovelace

Photographer: Trevor Harris. Rider: Mark Goodall

Voting is now closed. Congrats to Erin Helstern for winning Round 4.

Submit your photo to the showdown

Do you have a shot that you think could give your side the edge? Email it to socialmedia@bluemountain.ca, and we’ll send it to the front lines. The winners of each battle will win a year-long subscription to SBC Skier or Snowboard Canada Magazine, and be entered to win the grand prize which will be awarded at the 2013 SNOW Media Showcase at Blue Mountain resort.

Snow Media Showcase Photo Showdown: Round 3

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 10:24:00 -0500

Taking their cues from Bob Seger, both our third round entries are workin’ on their night moves. Will it be the park shot or urban setup that prevails and moves on to the finals? The clock is ticking and that choice is up to you.

Photographer: Ben Howell. Skier: Lucas Eastmure

Photographer: Adam Hunt. Rider: Adam Carmichael

Voting is now closed. Congrats to Adam Hunt for winning Round 3.

Submit your photos to the Showdown!

Do you have a shot that you think could give your side the edge? Email it to socialmedia@bluemountain.ca, and we’ll send it to the front lines. The winners of each battle will win a year-long subscription to SBC Skier or Snowboard Canada Magazine, and be entered to win the grand prize which will be awarded at the 2013 SNOW Media Showcase at Blue Mountain resort.

Junior Freeride Tour Heads to Squaw Valley

Fri, 08 Mar 2013 10:04:00 -0500

The Junior Freeride Tour is making its way to Lake Tahoe this weekend for the second stop of the 2013 tour at Squaw Valley, CA (March 8-10). After an exciting event at Crystal Mountain, WA (January 25-27) the 2013 season has been off to a great start for junior freeskiers and snowboarders.

Each regular season Junior Freeride Tour stop is classified as a 2-star Freeride World Qualifier (FWQ) event with points contributing to athletes overall ranking on the Freeride World Tour system. The Junior World Championships by The North Face at Snowbird Ski Resort will award 3-star points. FWQ competitions are the only youth freeriding events providing the opportunity for young riders to collect points eligible for the Freeride World Tour system when they graduate to adult competition at the age of 18.

Skier backflips a cliff at the Crystal Mountain JFT event ©Billy Swan/MSI

The competition structure for the JFT is well designed and organized for junior competitors. Riders compete one at a time and receive an overall score from a judging panel based on numerous categories including line difficulty, control, fluidity, technique and style. A winning run will feature difficult line choices, such as riding over cliffs, through narrow chutes, off natural features created by rocks, fallen trees, etc. Slopes average 50-degrees-much steeper and more difficult than the average 35-degree "black diamond" slope found at the average ski area.

Top ranked junior freeskiers and snowboarders participating in JFT events will qualify to compete at the Junior Freeride World Championships at Snowbird Ski Resort April 3-7, 2013 that will be webcast live on the following websites:

www.JuniorFreerideTour.com
www.FreerideWorldTour.com
www.Powder.com

Registration for the 2013 Junior Freeride Tour is now open. A prequalified athlete list based off of results from the 2012 Junior Freeskiing Tour is available on the JFT website.

The 2013 JFT season is brought to you by Blizzard/Tecnica and Powder. The JFT World Championships at Snowbird Ski Resort are sponsored in part by Subaru, The North Face, Blizzard/Tecnica and Powder magazine.

For athlete, registration or general information visit: www.juniorfreeridetour.com

Follow the JFT on Facebook at: www.Facebook.com/JRFreeskiingTour or on Twitter at: www.twitter.com/jrfreeridetour

Rossignol Experience Center and Concept-Shop at Mont SUTTON

Thu, 07 Mar 2013 11:55:00 -0500

Mont SUTTON and Rossignol are uniting to offer you, starting this Fall 2013, a “Rossignol Concept-Shop” and the Experience Center at the rental shop.

Over the past years, Mont SUTTON’s owners – the Boulanger family – have never ceased to improve the offer at the mountain, all of this with a true desire to preserve the unique concept of glade skiing and the authentic atmosphere. The creation of a new après-ski bar, the addition of new snow guns, the acquisition of new grooming machines, the management of the Snow School for a better service are but a few examples. Mont SUTTON now announces the launch of a Rossignol Concept-Shop at the foot of the hill and a new customer-service approach for the rental shop. This also involves the renewal of its entire fleet of equipment for brand new stock. The main objective: to improve the overall customer experience.

Mont SUTTON and Rossignol: a natural partnership
“The entire Mont SUTTON’s team is very enthusiastic about introducing its customers to the full product range of this well-established brand. The latest skis and snowboards developed with the Rossignol philosophy meet in every way our wish to offer the right tools to every type of skier in order to enjoy the great variety of terrain at Mont SUTTON. The team is very excited to work alongside Rossignol to offer customer service and skis specifically designed to meet the needs of every skier, from beginner to expert, via the Experience Center at the rental shop”, says Jean-Michel Ryan, Mont SUTTON General Manager.

The Rossignol Experience Center: distinct approach with new and innovative equipment
Thanks to the recommendations of a specialized team and to the new “Experience Auto Turn Rocker” technology offered on the skis and snowboards at the Rossignol Experience Center, skiers of all ages and levels will learn faster and become more versatile. The innovative technology of “Auto Turn Rocker”, such as the rocker tip and tail, delivers easy steering and maneuverability in all conditions and terrain. Novice skiers will gain more control and confidence, intermediates will quickly learn to maneuver and advanced skiers can excel in all-mountain conditions.

Auto Turn Rocker Technology

Rossignol Concept-Shop
The shop at the foot of the hill will now offer the full range of Rossignol products: from the complete ski packages at competitive prices to the high-end skis, helmets, goggles, clothing, etc. In short, all the necessary gear to be equipped from head to toe. Demos and other surprises also on the program. Stay tuned to find out more. Details: montsutton.com.

Snow Media Showcase Photo Showdown: Round 2

Wed, 06 Mar 2013 11:38:00 -0500

Same event, different sport, same jump, different angle. Before you choose your subject matter, all photography starts with perspective. Share your perspective on these shots by clicking through and voting for your favourite.

Photographer: Carlos Alfaro, Rider: Sandy Boville

Photographer: Jay Frosch, Rider: Harrison Frosch

Voting is now closed. Congratulations to Jay Frosch for winning Round 2

Submit your photos to the Showdown!

Do you have a shot that you think could give your side the edge? Email it to socialmedia@bluemountain.ca, and we’ll send it to the front lines. The winners of each battle will win a year-long subscription to SBC Skier or Snowboard Canada Magazine, and be entered to win the grand prize which will be awarded at the 2013 SNOW Media Showcase at Blue Mountain resort.

Roxy Ride Days stops off at Mont Avila

Tue, 05 Mar 2013 12:10:00 -0500

The ROXY Ride Days cross Canada tour entered it's second of four stops Saturday, February 23 at Mont Avila, near Montreal Quebec, to a sold out crowd of female riders. Upping the excitement were special guest coaches, including: Canadian ROXY rider Joanie Robichaud, recently appointed Transwold Snowboarding's Rookie of The Year, Corinne Pasela, and legend Erin Comstock. The day began with girls showing off their skills in the pro and progression park where the light snowfall gave everything a pretty coating and cushy landing. The Mont Avila terrain park staff did an incredible job with the progression park and really allowed girls to push their comfort level.

As with every ROXY Ride Day, the camp ends with a game of R.O.X.Y. which is based on the rules of H.O.R.S.E. or S.K.A.T.E. A trick is called and if you cannot land the trick you receive a letter. The process repeats itself until the girl with the least letters is left standing and is crowned the winner. Taking top honors for the Jump was Gabby Kedzierski, Advanced Rail went to Veronique Laramée and Intermediate Rail to Emilie Fillion. Congratulations to everyone who pushed themselves! On the topic of prizes, a shiny new Ollie Pop needed to be given away. With the ROXY Outdoor Fitness line launching this Spring it seemed fitting to have a push-up battle for the coveted board prize. Several push-ups later there was a clear and muscular winner. Great job Chloe Vo! The next camp is next week: Grouse Mountain, BC on Saturday March 16 followed by Lake Louise, AB on Saturday March 30. Start practicing your push-ups and dance moves as you never know what the next snowboard challenge may be. To register for one of the upcoming camps head here.

Orage Masters Elite 8 Contest

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 13:20:00 -0500

Skiing’s Anti Comp is back and is scheduled to crash land at Sun Valley, Idaho on April 6, 2013 to throw down, party, and host the "craziest scene skiing has ever seen".

This year’s Masters event shines a spotlight on the best film crews in the game. With a stacked roster from Level 1, Stept, 4bi9, Inspired Media, Traveling Circus, Toy Soldiers and The Kids, we’re looking for one more team to round out the field of 8.

We have 7 teams locked but we need 8... In other words, WE NEED YOU! We’re looking for local crews, random ski gangs or any other 4 pack of skiers worthy of a last minute entry to throw down on the big stage.

If you want to compete in the Orage Masters, rally your crew, submit a video, keep your fingers crossed and you could be named the final team to make the Elite 8.

TO ENTER CLICK HERE

Snow Media Showcase Photo Showdown: Round 1

Mon, 04 Mar 2013 11:00:00 -0500

Black and white, highlights and shadows. These shots share so much in common, but couldn’t be more any more different. Pick your favourite by voting below. You’ll have 48 hours to vote and then we’ll send the winner off to the finals, so get to it!

Photographer: Magdalena Biskup, Skier: Unknown

Photographer: Tommy Keith, Rider: Mike Chmil

Voting is now closed. Congrats to Magdalena Biskup for winning Round 1.

Submit your photos to the Showdown!

Do you have a shot that you think could give your side the edge? Email it to socialmedia@bluemountain.ca, and we’ll send it to the front lines. The winners of each battle will win a year-long subscription to SBC Skier or Snowboard Canada Magazine, and be entered to win the grand prize which will be awarded at the 2013 SNOW Media Showcase at Blue Mountain Resort.

Mark McMorris & Spencer O'Brien Win Slopestyle Titles at the 2013 Burton US Open Presented by MINI

Fri, 01 Mar 2013 21:14:00 -0500

Vail Mountain, CO - Mark McMorris and Spencer O’Brien won slopestyle titles at the 31st annual Burton US Open Snowboarding Championships presented by MINI at Vail Mountain. Both Mark and Spencer will take home $45,000 each as well as a coveted title from the sport’s most legendary event.

While snow fell steadily all day, the riding level remained high with competitors working hard under tough conditions. Mark McMorris took his first ever US Open men’s slopestyle victory with a winning run that included a MINI wallride to gap to lipslide, gap to backside lipslide, double backflip indy grab, frontside 1080 mute grab to a backside 1080 mute grab. Coming in second was Torstein Horgmo (NOR), who arguably had the best rail trick of the day, and rounding out the podium in third was Chas Guldemond (USA).

“Winning the US Open is one of the highlights from my season, and I think everyone is psyched to see it in Vail,” said Mark McMorris. “Conditions were a little rough, but I kept my speed up, and these are the best jumps ever built in slopestyle. I’m having more fun than I’ve ever had and to be sharing the podium with my good friends is really fun.”

Mark’s win today made him the World Snowboard Tour Slopestyle Champion for 2013, and he’ll claim his trophy at the US Open award ceremony following halfpipe finals here in Vail tomorrow.

On the women’s side, event organizers and athletes made a joint decision to cancel today’s women’s slopestyle finals due to increasingly adverse weather conditions as the afternoon went on. As a result, the top three women from slopestyle semi-finals podiumed, landing Spencer O’Brien with top honors, Jamie Anderson (USA) in second place and Brooke Voigt (CAN) in third.

“I’m happy that our safety was considered in today’s cancellation,” said Spencer O’Brien. “Lucky for me, I was first in semi-finals so I’m stoked with the win.”

Additionally, the $3,000 Nokia Rookie Award for slopestyle was presented today to Darcy Sharpe and Brooke Voigt, who both earned the award through a combination of their standings on the World Snowboard Points List, individual competition results and progressive riding.

Finally in other award news, Vail beat out LAAX to win this year’s MINI Feature Award. Designed by Snow Park Technologies, the Burton US Open slopestyle feature offered various rail, wallride and transition options all arranged around a huge 20-foot wallride mounted on a quarterpipe with a MINI parked in the center.

Tomorrow, don’t miss the last day of the Burton US Open with halfpipe finals beginning at 9:50am MST. Also tune in to watch live coverage from Vail on NBC Sports Network, and check out the webcast at: www.Burton.com/USO

Men’s Slopestyle Final Results:
1. Mark McMorris CAN, BURTON, 83.05
2. Torstein Horgmo NOR, DC SHOE CO, 82.53
3. Chas Guldemond USA, ROCKSTAR, 81.63

Women’s Slopestyle Final Results:
1. Spencer O’Brien CAN, NIKE, 75.33
2. Jamie Anderson USA, BILLABONG, 74.88
3. Brooke Voigt CAN, 32 SNOWBOARD BOOTS, 70.08

Mark McMorris

Men's Podium: Torstien Horgmo (2nd), Mark McMorris (1st), Chas Guldemond (3rd).

Spencer O'Brien

Women's Podium: Jamie Anderson (2nd), Spencer O'Brien (1st), Brooke Voigt (2nd)

Kardinal Offishall, Young Empires Join Horseshoe Open, Ontario's largest Ski & Snowboard Festival

Thu, 28 Feb 2013 15:18:00 -0500

BARRIE, ONTARIO - Horseshoe, a Skyline Resort is set to kick-off Canada’s newest and Ontario’s largest ski and snowboard festival, Horseshoe Open, March 8-10. Presented by 102.1 The Edge and hosted by radio station personalities, Dean Blundell and Todd Shapiro, the three-day event will host some of North America’s best skiers, snowboarders and DJs alongside concerts from celebrated Canadian rapper, Kardinal Offishall and indie rock group, Young Empires .

Throughout the weekend, skiers and snowboarders will compete in several events spanning the resort’s 26 ski runs and popular terrain park, including Slopestyle, Rail Jam and Junior Jam categories, to be judged by members of the Canadian Snowboard Federation. The Saturday evening events will light up the sky with a professional Big Air competition alongside fireworks on the hill. Guests will cap off the weekend at the Coors Light Pro Rider after party with performances from Young Empires and Kardinal Offishall.

All ski and snowboard events are free for spectators, but on-hill events do require a valid Horseshoe Resort lift ticket to access the hill.

During the daytime, Skullcandy’s DJ showcase and Motts' Caesar après-ski patio party will keep the festivities going on the slopes. In the Main Village, Action Sports Village will feature the latest in ski and snowboard gear. For the full event schedule, visit http://www.horseshoeresort.com/horseshoeopenschedule.

Concert tickets can be purchased separately for $20 at: http://www.horseshoeresort.com/registration-concert-tickets They are also included as part of Horseshoe Resort’s accommodations package. From $118 per person, the Horseshoe Open room special includes accommodations, daily Alpine lift ticket, breakfast, VIP access to the Horseshoe Open Big Air competition and VIP seating for musical acts.

Registration for the Slopestyle and Rail Jam events is $30 per event, open to the public. To register, visit http://www.horseshoeresort.com/registration-concert-tickets.

For more information or to book accommodations, visit www.horseshoeresort.com or call 1-855-228-5634.

Spencer O'Brien and Torstein Horgmo qualify first in slopestyle semi-finals at Burton US Open

Wed, 27 Feb 2013 19:52:00 -0500

Vail Mountain, CO -- Today’s slopestyle semi-finals marked the start of the 31st annual Burton US Open Snowboarding Championships presented by MINI at Vail Mountain. Under bluebird skies at the largest resort in the U.S., the world’s top snowboarders treated spectators to next-level slopestyle riding. Spencer O’Brien (CAN) and Torstein Horgmo (NOR) finished first in the slopestyle semi-finals competition and will advance to the US Open slopestyle finals, taking place this Friday, March 1st.

Canadian Spencer O’Brien led the women’s field with her winning run that included a frontside boardslide, MINI wallride to gap to frontside lipslide, 50-50 frontside 180 out, switch backside 180 mute grab, and a frontside 360 to backside 540 indy grab. Right behind her was Jamie Anderson (USA) in second and Brooke Voigt (CAN) in third. In total, 21 women from 11 different countries battled it out on the slopestyle course and the top six riders will advance to the finals.

On the men’s side, Norwegian Torstein Horgmo took first place with a winning run that included a switch backside 270 on, MINI wallride to switch frontside boardslide 270 out, switch lipslide 270 out, switch backside 900 mute grab, and a frontside double cork 1080 mute grab followed by a huge backside double cork 1080 indy grab. Close behind him was Eric Willett (USA) in second and young-gun Yuki Kadono (JPN) in third. All in all, 42 men from 9 different countries competed, and 12 solidified a coveted spot in the Burton US Open slopestyle finals.

Women’s Slopestyle Semi-Final Results:
1. Spencer O’Brien CAN, NIKE, 75.33
2. Jamie Anderson USA, BILLABONG, 74.88
3. Brooke Voigt CAN, 32 SNOWBOARD BOOTS, 70.08
4. Sarka Pancochova CZE, FLOW, 69.53
5. Christy Prior NZL, BURTON, 63.53
6. Shelly Gotlieb NZL, BURTON, 62.00

Men’s Slopestyle Semi-Final Results:
1. Torstein Horgmo NOR, DC SHOE CO USA, 87.93
2. Eric Willett USA, VANS, 84.26
3. Yuki Kadono JPN, RIDE, 83.88
4. Mark McMorris CAN, BURTON, 83.43
5. Chas Guldemond USA, ROCKSTAR, 81.25
6. Peetu Piiroinen FIN, NIKE, 80.63
7. Maxence Parrot CAN, O’NEILL, 80.28
8. Stale Sandbech NOR, OAKLEY, 80.03
9. Sage Kotsenburg USA, NIKE, 79.28
10. Ryan Stassel USA, BURTON, 77.23
11. Jamie Nicholls GBR, NIKE, 75.03
12. Darcy Sharpe CAN, MONSTER, 74.98

Tomorrow, don’t miss day two of the Burton US Open with halfpipe semi-finals beginning at 9am MST. Starting Friday, tune in to watch live coverage from Vail on Universal Sports and NBC Sports Network, plus original live coverage, additional airings, run replays, full webcasts, broadcast schedules and more on www.Burton.com/USO.

Spencer O'Brien, Patterson photo.

Torstein Horgmo, Patterson photo.

Vail Mountain, CO (February 27, 2013) Today’s slopestyle semi-finals marked the start of the 31st annual Burton US Open Snowboarding Championships presented by MINI at Vail Mountain. Under bluebird skies at the largest resort in the U.S., the world’s top snowboarders treated spectators to next-level slopestyle riding. Spencer O’Brien (CAN) and Torstein Horgmo (NOR) finished first in the slopestyle semi-finals competition and will advance to the US Open slopestyle finals, taking place this Friday, March 1st.

Canadian Spencer O’Brien led the women’s field with her winning run that included a frontside boardslide, MINI wallride to gap to frontside lipslide, 50-50 frontside 180 out, switch backside 180 mute grab, and a frontside 360 to backside 540 indy grab. Right behind her was Jamie Anderson (USA) in second and Brooke Voigt (CAN) in third. In total, 21 women from 11 different countries battled it out on the slopestyle course and the top six riders will advance to the finals.

On the men’s side, Norwegian Torstein Horgmo took first place with a winning run that included a switch backside 270 on, MINI wallride to switch frontside boardslide 270 out, switch lipslide 270 out, switch backside 900 mute grab, and a frontside double cork 1080 mute grab followed by a huge backside double cork 1080 indy grab. Close behind him was Eric Willett (USA) in second and young-gun Yuki Kadono (JPN) in third. All in all, 42 men from 9 different countries competed, and 12 solidified a coveted spot in the Burton US Open slopestyle finals.

Women’s Slopestyle Semi-Final Results:
1. Spencer O’Brien CAN, NIKE, 75.33
2. Jamie Anderson USA, BILLABONG, 74.88
3. Brooke Voigt CAN, 32 SNOWBOARD BOOTS, 70.08
4. Sarka Pancochova CZE, FLOW, 69.53
5. Christy Prior NZL, BURTON, 63.53
6. Shelly Gotlieb NZL, BURTON, 62.00

Men’s Slopestyle Semi-Final Results:
1. Torstein Horgmo NOR, DC SHOE CO USA, 87.93
2. Eric Willett USA, VANS, 84.26
3. Yuki Kadono JPN, RIDE, 83.88
4. Mark McMorris CAN, BURTON, 83.43
5. Chas Guldemond USA, ROCKSTAR, 81.25
6. Peetu Piiroinen FIN, NIKE, 80.63
7. Maxence Parrot CAN, O’NEILL, 80.28
8. Stale Sandbech NOR, OAKLEY, 80.03
9. Sage Kotsenburg USA, NIKE, 79.28
10. Ryan Stassel USA, BURTON, 77.23
11. Jamie Nicholls GBR, NIKE, 75.03
12. Darcy Sharpe CAN, MONSTER, 74.98

Tomorrow, don’t miss day two of the Burton US Open with halfpipe semi-finals beginning at 9am MST. Starting Friday, tune in to watch live coverage from Vail on Universal Sports and NBC Sports Network, plus original live coverage, additional airings, run replays, full webcasts, broadcast schedules and more on www.Burton.com/USO.

Spencer O'Brien, Patterson photo.

Torstein Horgmo, Patterson photo. - See more at: http://www.sbcwomen.com/news_article?news_id=1057#sthash.9Lj5nguc.dpuf

Blue Mountain's SNOW Media Showcase: Photo Showdown

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 15:51:00 -0500

Although we like to keep up appearances, skiing and snowboarding have always been locked in a battle for winter sport supremacy. For years the war has been waged out on frozen battlefields, but we’re pulling back the curtain, bringing it to your computer screen and giving you the power to decide the outcome. When the snow settles, one photo will be left with glory, bragging rights and a sweet prize pack from Blue Mountain Resort and its sponsors.

Battle #1 (ski vs snowboard) – March 4 to 5
Battle #2 (ski vs snowboard) – March 6 to 7
Battle #3 (ski vs snowboard) – March 8 to 9
Battle #4 (ski vs snowboard) – March 10 to 11
Battle #5 (ski vs snowboard) – March 12 to 13
Battle #6 (ski vs snowboard) – March 14 to 15
Final Battle (battle winners faceoff) – March 16, 2013

Submit your photos to the Showdown!

Do you have a shot that you think could give your side the edge? Email it to socialmedia@bluemountain.ca, and we’ll send it to the front lines. The winners of each battle will win a year-long subscription to SBC Skier or Snowboard Canada Magazine, and be entered to win the grand prize which will be awarded at the 2013 SNOW Media Showcase at Blue Mountain Resort.

Momentum Camps team up with the 'Sarah Burke Foundation' to offer 2nd annual 'Spirit of Sarah' Scholarship

Tue, 26 Feb 2013 11:17:00 -0500

Momentum Ski Camps, in partnership with the Sarah Burke Foundation, is launching the 2nd annual 'Spirit of Sarah Scholarship'. The training scholarship was set up to honour the memory of freestyle skier and long time Momentum camper and coach Sarah Burke, who passed away last year in a tragic accident.

Camp Director John Smart says, "One of the causes dear to Sarah’s heart was encouraging young girls to follow their dreams and believe in their skiing abilities. Sarah played a big part in getting our ‘Girls Ski Week’ off the ground and inspired so many young women through her incredible skiing talent, but more importantly through her demonstration of modesty, kindness and her wonderfully positive approach to life."

One lucky lady will win a Free Full Package week, worth over $2,300 to train at Momentum Camps in Whistler, B.C. this summer, under the mentorship of some of the top freestyle skiers in the world. Applicants have been asked to submit a 3-5 minute video presentation to plead their case. The judging panel will be looking for a worthy candidate who best embodies Sarah’s very special strengths and characteristics. Candidates can make submissions to info@momentumcamps.com until April 15th. Full details are at: http://momentumcamps.com/m/spirit-of-sarah-scholarship

Last year 16 year old Emma Stevens from Nova Scotia was the inaugural winner and enjoyed an inspiring week of training at Momentum's special 'Girls Week' in July. When asked recently how the scholarship has impacted her season she says: "The additional summer training it gave me provided me with a good head start and helped me ease into this year's season a lot smoother. It isn't so much the training though, that has helped me the most. Meeting all the pro skiers and hearing their own success stories directly from them really helped me see where I want to go, and it gave me that extra push to want to strive for greatness."

"Being at Momentum was the first time that I was actually able to be around a big group of female freestyle skiers and that was also really awesome and showed me how big Sarah's spirit was. Before Momentum I knew that there were a lot more girls out there other than me, but living in Nova Scotia sheltered me to only myself and at most 8-10 other girls. So being around 40+ girls all at once was a really big eye opening experience. I think the experience I got has given me that extra push I needed to succeed."

The Sarah Burke Foundation is also offering two separate $7,500 cash scholarships. Deadlines for submissions are March 1st. Full details can be found at: http://sarahburkefoundation.com/scholarship/

Duncan wins Big Air, Messier and Martan Win Rail Jam at The North Face Park and Pipe Open Series at Waterville Valley, NH

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 12:35:00 -0500

WATERVILLE VALLEY, NEW HAMPSHIRE - The North Face Park and Pipe Open Series at Waterville Valley Resort concluded Saturday in cold and snowy east coast conditions amidst incredible live DJ beats provided by Red Bull, and a crowd of nearly 400 spectators at Waterville Valley, New Hampshire.

Waterville Valley local, Josh Messier of Gilford, NH and Marissa Martan of White River Junction, VT walked away victorious in the rail jam, while Tyler Duncan of Cranmore Mountain Resort, NH took top honors in the Big Air competition which wowed crowds at night under the lights.

Josh Messier ©Corey Rondeau/MSI

In the rail jam competition, Josh Messier perfectly landed a series of tricks consisting of a front swap, to a 270, a 360 switch-up same-way 270, and finally a switch lip blind 270 out.

Joining Messier on the men's rail jam podium was Emile Bergeron of Le Relais, Canada taking second place with a front switch-up same-way 270 out, and a lip 450 onto the middle rail feature. Rounding out the podium in third place was Sam Zahner of Mount Creek, New Jersey who executed a front switch-up, pretzel switch-up out, a 270 on same way 270 out, and a 270 out on the stairs.

The North Face PPOS Big Air Highlights - Waterville Valley Resort

Marissa Martan's rail jam performance included a 270 on the first rail and a tail tap on the bottom square rail locking down the women's first place spot. Megan Clinton of Loon Mountain, New Hampshire was awarded second place by completing a lip-side on the down rail and cleanly hitting the stair-set square rail.

In the evening, a talented crew of male athletes gathered under lights and heavy snow to compete in the Big Air competition. Taking top honors was Tyler Duncan who cleanly executed a double flat spin 900 Japan shifty, which was stalled out, and had a perfect landing.

Tyler Duncan ©Corey Rondeau/MSI

Second place went to Emile Bergeron whose standout trick included a huge double flat spin 900-safety grab. John Brown of Waterville Valley, New Hampshire clinched third place with a forward right-side double cork 1080.

"To have an event like The North Face Park and Pipe Open Series come to the East Coast is amazing for the local kids," remarked filmmaker and athlete Nick Martini. "Waterville Valley has a long history in the freestyle scene and is still home to some of the best up and coming shredders. The amount of talented and enthusiastic supporters at the event this year was unprecedented."

This year's PPOS at Waterville Valley Resort enabled younger aspiring athletes to experience a high quality venue. Participants were able to meet talented and well-respected The North Face athletes Devin Logan and Nick Martini. The weekend kicked off Friday night in the Town Square with a premier of Martini's movie "The Eighty Six" by Stept Productions. More than 100 people enjoyed the film, fire pit and hot cocoa. After the movie, Logan and Martini greeted an endless line of guests out the door of 1829 Outfitters for almost two hours signing autographs.

The North Face Park and Pipe Open Series will continue its 2013 season with a final slopestyle stop at Northstar California Resort March 8-10. For more information visit: www.TheNorthFacePPOS.com

Vincent Prevost and Jessica Warll Win The Canadian Shield at Blue Mountain

Mon, 25 Feb 2013 11:55:00 -0500

The Canadian Shield slopestyle contest took place at Blue Mountain on Saturday. Drawing skiers from all over the country to compete for a share of the $10,000.00 cash purse and a chance to gain series points. The men's pro division saw an incredibly high caliber of skiing go down and when the snow settled Quebec native Vincent Prevost captured the win. He also took home the SBC Skier Standout Trick award for the Switch Double 10 he landed clean at the end of his winning run. On the ladies side, Jessica Warll dominated the pro women's division all day and ultimately captured the win as well the women's SBC Skier Standout Trick award with a Rodeo 7. Check out some photos and the full podium results below and be sure to check back on Tuesday for video coverage from the contest.

SBC Skier Standout Trick Award Winners Jessica Warll and Vincent Prevost

Pro Men's Division Podium:

1. Vincent Prevost (Nordica, Orage)

2. Sandy Boville (Moment, Kombi, Spy)

3. Gabriel Boudreau (Rossignol)

Pro Women's Division Podium:

1. Jessica Warll ( 4Frnt)

2. Olivia Lane (K2)

3. Shondra Charbonneau (Head)

Amateur Men's Divisiom Podium:

1. Pierre Beaudet

2. Olivier Montour

3. Spencer Gagnier

Amateur Women's Division Podium:

1. Rachael Anderson

2. Marianne Tremblay

Boy's 15 & Under Podium:

1. Billy Berthiaume

2. Frederik Pratte

3. Christian Stormgaard

Girl's 15 & Under Podium:

1. Gillian Golosky

2. Carly Lavieille

3. Darcy Malone