Whistler 2008 - Week 1 of 4 Week Course (Nov/Dec 08)
SNOWBOARD COURSE DIARY
ANDREW McDONELL, Nov 2008
SEVEN LADS, TWO MOUNTAINS AND 1 AWESOME CHALET
Course co-ordinator Jonathan made best efforts to meet alll incoming course members when they arrived in Whistler over a period of 72 hourse, no matter what time of the day or night. With four Brits, an Aussie and a Bermudan there was little knowledge of the town so the personal meeting was appreciated.
At the Chalet, the crew began to estabilish themselves:
Jonathan Drew: Course Director, UK, 27, man about town, paul Beard's Protege, AKA Jonny, Jonny Boy, JB, the organiser, Mr Responsibility.
Justin North: UK, 27, resident muso, shops til he drops, has a striking resemblance to Astro Boy, AKA the old man
Brian Billing: Bermuda, 22, loves G&Ts - its the British Colonial heritage, and heavy metal, AKA Bermuda, the American
Luke Goble: UK, 18, the tallest snowboarder in the World (6'4"), best mates with Ross, AKA Lumper, Gobbler, Gobful
Ross Ponsford Jones: UK, 18, the smooth man of the crew, best mates with Gobbler, AKA PJ
Ben McHugh: UK, 20, the extrovert, the loud one, the annoying one, the one who makes things happen, master of computer games, AKA Benji, Benny Diablo
Andrew McDonell: Australia, 26, the lad form down under and this weeks author, AKA Andy, Action man, M.Diddy
The first Week saw the crew tackle the twin mountains of Whistler Blackcomb albeit with only a handful of runs open. Instructor Rick (possible the most laid back dude in Whistler) took us under his wing with some early positive results. Ollies, nollies, carving and nose rolls have been seamlessly integrates into the CASI Level 1 training. Even with less than desireable snow levels, everyday has been spent on the mountain, training for the exam.
Of significance are the "acquaintances" that have ben made in the village at the popular night spots - namely Buffalo Bills. No names to be mentioned here, but note that Saturday night is definitley the one for the cougars.
Week 2 to be brought to you by Justin.....
