After almost three years working in corporate America, I made a decision this fall to return to my roots. This meant quickly finding a job as a race coach and really starting up Chinese Downhill. We had been working on the site for over six months and the more I connect with people, the more I realized how much I missed the ski culture. I decided to use my racing experience and contacts to land a job as a coach at one of the Eastern academies. After a couple weeks of searching, I was contacted by NYSEF and offered an assistant J3 position. It was perfect. I had only raced at Lake Placid once (when I was 13), but still remembered the town and knew it would be the perfect place to spend my winter.
It wasn't just working on Chinese Downhill that brought me back to skiing. Someone asked me recently what I would consider a perfect day. My perfect days have been spent on the mountain. Getting off the lift on a blue bird day, tightening my boots, and heading down the trail. Whether it was groomed, death cookies, or powder, the feeling at the top of the lift always remains the same. Pure happiness to be on the mountain. I wanted that back, and knew that the city could never offer me that same perfect happiness.
So here is the start of something new, in order to get back to the root of what makes me who I am.
Monday, November 23, 2009
Thursday, November 12, 2009
Beta Testing, Moving, Oh My
Yup, there has definitely been a lack of posts lately. My bad.
After three years of working in "corporate" America and six years living in Beantown, I have finally made a decision to do more than talk about making a change. There is something undeniably alluring about a ski town. A close knit group of people tied together by a common bond and passion for chasing the fluffy, white powder. In the east, the powder is usually replaced by boiler plate, golf balls, and (occasional groomers) but I think it makes us stronger. For this reason I am moving back, and seeing how it goes. My brother is calling it "the experiment," but pretty excited to start on my adventure.
In addition, a little of 8 months ago three Bostonians met at the Alchemist to talk about starting a ski/snowboard community. With little more than social media and developers skills, we began building out our plans for Chinese Downhill. A week and a half ago we launched into beta, I think there are few times in my life where I have been more nervous. However, things are going GREAT! Our beta testers love the site so far. We hope to open it up to everyone within the next couple of weeks. Can't wait.
So, the long and short of it, I was a slacker, expect much more from me as winter comes and the east turns into a winter oasis of awesomeness.
After three years of working in "corporate" America and six years living in Beantown, I have finally made a decision to do more than talk about making a change. There is something undeniably alluring about a ski town. A close knit group of people tied together by a common bond and passion for chasing the fluffy, white powder. In the east, the powder is usually replaced by boiler plate, golf balls, and (occasional groomers) but I think it makes us stronger. For this reason I am moving back, and seeing how it goes. My brother is calling it "the experiment," but pretty excited to start on my adventure.
In addition, a little of 8 months ago three Bostonians met at the Alchemist to talk about starting a ski/snowboard community. With little more than social media and developers skills, we began building out our plans for Chinese Downhill. A week and a half ago we launched into beta, I think there are few times in my life where I have been more nervous. However, things are going GREAT! Our beta testers love the site so far. We hope to open it up to everyone within the next couple of weeks. Can't wait.
So, the long and short of it, I was a slacker, expect much more from me as winter comes and the east turns into a winter oasis of awesomeness.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Want It: 9Five Cult Classics
Received my regular Thrillist newsletter this morning (which, I did not figure out was targeted to men for...at least two months cause I loved everything they featured...hmmm) and was turned on to 9Five. This San Diego optics company develops sophisticated looks inspired by the skateboarding culture. I know, weird for San Diego.
They just recently launched their web shop releasing some new looks and new twists to old looks. My favorite, the 9Five Cult Classics in Glen. These clear framed Wayfarer-esque shades have a thicker, sturdier frame (to handle more hardcore use) and unique turquoise lenses that seperate them from the ones people are picking up at the gas station.
Usually I don't really trust myself with nice sunglasses, mostly due to the fact that throughout the years I have a track record of at least losing 3 pairs annually. However, the other great thing about these guys is that they are pretty cheap. At only $31.00, I can feel ok if they somehow get "missplaced," but unique enough that I would remember that I left them at the bar.
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Review: Patagonia Retro-X Fleece
To begin with, the structure of the jacket is much more than regular fleece jackets. It is constructed with a moisture-wicking, brushed-mesh lining that increases its stability. When I first took it out of the box, I was surprised by its stiffness, but the nylon panels along the side make it easy to move in without compromising on protective layers of warmth. In addition, a windproof barrier in between the lining and the fleece is perfect for the biting New England winds that seem to whip through around now (and all season...). Also, I have to give props to Patagonia for also thinking green. Their polyester pile is 78% recycled.
When I bought my coat, it only came in the "irregular" color of mushroom. Since I don't tend to trust myself with light colored clothing, I was hesitant at first. However, now I love it! The light brown is a perfect fall color and it pairs well with just about anything. I also haven't worn it as a layer yet and am worried it might be too bulky to put under my Oakley bomber coat (review to come cause I absolutely love it!).
You can check out more stats on Patagonia's Retro-X fleece here.
Thursday, October 22, 2009
#SnowKarma Tweeple - A Bigger, Badder #FollowFriday
So, its finally Friday, whoooo! After being sick for most of the week, the weekend is a refreshing relief to do...whatever I want. But Friday, in true twitter tradition, is also a time to send a "holla" out to all your key tweeple (yup I just said it).Base Camp Communication released a "34 Snow Twinfluencers to Follow on Twitter" yesterday, which I was completely honored to be on. I am on twitter cause I LOVE snow. As people in New England are grumbling about the oncoming winter, I don't think it could come fast enough and I love that there are other people who don't think I'm crazy. So, this Friday, I wanted to give some followers a bigger, badder #FollowFriday. Below are the people that are bringing the #snowkarma this winter.
@AspenSpin: This guy has a passion for Aspen and all its snow craziness. I actually met him last year (hmmm wonder if he remembers...) when I was working for my past company. He writes all the Aspen happenings here.
@Banff_Squirrel: One of the greatest handles for a resort area...who can resist those little paws and endless snow info?
@chrisgeorge4: Self described "New Media Junkie" he definitely keeps the #snowkarma alive.
@eric_hoffman & @krista_parry: Had an AMAZING trip to Park City last year and was lucky to meet both Krista and Eric. They have pulled together an awesome social media marketing program for Park City and are snow junkies.
@Evanw24: Huge thanks for being an early believer and evangelist of Chinese Downhill, we promise not to disappoint. Also has his own thing going on with Leap Gear.
@Loparks: She put the list mentioned above together, but she deserves her own props as a snow maven.
@meatheadfilms: These guys are from New England and make awesome ski flicks of Eastern skiers...I think that says it all.
@RippinSkiers: On top of his snow game and wicked fun to follow.
@SkiingExaminer: (Eric Wagnon) tons of great snow information and links.
@SuzieLin: She may be based out of Washington, DC, but this girl loves snow.
That is my BIG, BAD #followfriday this week, way over the 140 character limit. Let's keep the #snowkarma alive and well this season and hopefully mother nature will not disappoint.
If you think I may have missed you...be patient...your time will surely come.
Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Film Review: The Edge of Never
I recently received an autographed copy of the new ski flick The Edge of Never. Based off of a book written by the film's director, Bill Kerig, the movie follows the journey of Kye Peterson skiing the run that his father died on. Featuring Glen Plake, Anselme Baud, Eric Pehota, Mike Hattrup, Kasha Rigby, and Meg Oster, the film is more than just tricks and powder shots.
Camaraderie is what comes to mind when I think about the movie. The best friendships I have ever made have been on the hill. You share a bond on the snow that few people who don't live for it can understand. The story of Eric Pehota and Trever Peterson emphasizes the passion that people can share for the sport. Hiking, skiing, and doing it all over again, but there is nothing better than looking over the mountain and then dropping in.
When Bill Kerig called Glen Plake, he told him he wanted to make a movie "about the heart and soul of skiing." He wanted to find it in Alaska, Glen told him it lived in Chamonix, France. However, it is what he says before that I think matters most. He said you could probably find the heart and soul of skiing in the midwest. Not where there are huge hill or hiking, but where people still live for the snow. Passion doesn't have to mean powder, but just a need to feel the snow.
The embodiment of the "heart and soul" of skiing comes in the form of pint sized Kye Peterson. The movie is focused on Kye's right of passage skiing the route that killed his father. I think one of the most powerful parts of the film were with Trever's mom, someone who may have never skied Chamonix, but never the less represents the soul of the sport. When Bill is thinking about taking Kye to France to film the movie, he first asks permission from his grandmother before saying yes. Talking to Kye's family about this adventure is one of the most touching points of the film.
Sometimes when watching ski videos all the time, we forget how dangerous skiing can be. The mountain has a mysticism about it that can't be denied, but if you don't hire a guide in Chamonix "then your an idiot." Enters Stephane "FanFan" Dan. The guy looks so comfortable on skis it makes me feel like a newbie. FanFan guides Kye through the techniques of hiking and skiing Chamonix. From seeing where his father died to overcoming his own challenge of skiing it himself. The thoughtfulness, passion, and companionship portrayed in the film makes me proud to be even a small part of the community.
The rest you are going to find out by watching, cause it is completely worth it. In the meantime, here is the trailer:
The Edge of Never Film Website
Camaraderie is what comes to mind when I think about the movie. The best friendships I have ever made have been on the hill. You share a bond on the snow that few people who don't live for it can understand. The story of Eric Pehota and Trever Peterson emphasizes the passion that people can share for the sport. Hiking, skiing, and doing it all over again, but there is nothing better than looking over the mountain and then dropping in.
When Bill Kerig called Glen Plake, he told him he wanted to make a movie "about the heart and soul of skiing." He wanted to find it in Alaska, Glen told him it lived in Chamonix, France. However, it is what he says before that I think matters most. He said you could probably find the heart and soul of skiing in the midwest. Not where there are huge hill or hiking, but where people still live for the snow. Passion doesn't have to mean powder, but just a need to feel the snow.
The embodiment of the "heart and soul" of skiing comes in the form of pint sized Kye Peterson. The movie is focused on Kye's right of passage skiing the route that killed his father. I think one of the most powerful parts of the film were with Trever's mom, someone who may have never skied Chamonix, but never the less represents the soul of the sport. When Bill is thinking about taking Kye to France to film the movie, he first asks permission from his grandmother before saying yes. Talking to Kye's family about this adventure is one of the most touching points of the film.
Sometimes when watching ski videos all the time, we forget how dangerous skiing can be. The mountain has a mysticism about it that can't be denied, but if you don't hire a guide in Chamonix "then your an idiot." Enters Stephane "FanFan" Dan. The guy looks so comfortable on skis it makes me feel like a newbie. FanFan guides Kye through the techniques of hiking and skiing Chamonix. From seeing where his father died to overcoming his own challenge of skiing it himself. The thoughtfulness, passion, and companionship portrayed in the film makes me proud to be even a small part of the community.
The rest you are going to find out by watching, cause it is completely worth it. In the meantime, here is the trailer:
The Edge of Never Film Website
JT Homles Talks to 60 Minutes
This past Sunday on 60 minutes, we all got the chance to see JT Homles fly on broadcast television. Seeing people zip around in those squirrel suits always gives me a chill. I've only been sky diving twice and strapped onto someone else, peaking over that cliff and hucking yourself towards the ground is definitely out of my comfort zone.
Although JT started his life in Beantown, his real daredevil ways were cultivated in California. He appeared in his first Matchstick Film production at 17 and has been pushing the limits of the sport ever since.
Check out his chat (I love seeing Steve Kroft's face as he talks about "controlling" the squirrel suit...kids don't try this stuff at home):
Although JT started his life in Beantown, his real daredevil ways were cultivated in California. He appeared in his first Matchstick Film production at 17 and has been pushing the limits of the sport ever since.
Check out his chat (I love seeing Steve Kroft's face as he talks about "controlling" the squirrel suit...kids don't try this stuff at home):
Friday, October 9, 2009
Boston: My Kind of Movie Premiere Season
Although new ski movies have been premiering all over the west coast, here in the East we have been eagerly awaiting their arrival. Meatheads has been touring with their latest release, Wild Stallions, and their turnouts are proving we are hungry for more onscreen skiing action. Some of the ones I am most looking forward to seeing on the big screen and the dates they will be in the Boston area:
Meatheads: Wild Stallions
Northeastern University
Tuesday, October 13, 8:00 (next week!!)
Room #20 West Village F
40 Leon St., Boston, MA
Have to give props to the boys who brought ski films to the East. We are proud of our 6 inch powder days and icy slopes...makes us stronger...right? Their description says it all "Renowned for their endurance and aggressive behavior, Wild Stallions are notoriously elusive and rarely captured on film." Plus, who can deny the awesomeness that has slaps of meat as a main component to their corporate image?
Check out info here.
MSP: In Deep
The Brattle Theater
Cambridge, MA
October 19 - 8pm (doors open at 7)
Judging by all their recent sold out shows, MSP's In Deep is not one to miss this season. The movie reveals the common bond between those in the park and those backpacking up the ridge, a passion for snow and the sport. In their own words "whether it be a double cork 1260, a deep turn on a storm day or ripping a giant AK line. Skiing is an incredibly diverse sport that offers it all." Its one of the aspects I love about skiing, no matter what your ability, there is always an opportunity to push it to the next level.
Check out more info here.
TGR: Re:Sessions
House of Blues
November 21, 2009
TGR has a history of great films, and Re:Sessions doesn't look to disappoint. Taking the focus off of traditional films full of tricks and deep powder turns, it moves "into a revolutionary realm of action sports entertainment."
Check out more info here.
Warren Miller's Dynasty
Berklee Performance Center
Edge of Never
Coolidge Corner
Brookline, Ma
November 18, 2009 - 7pm
The Brattle Theatre
Cambridge, Ma
November 17, 2009 - 7pm
I saved the best for last. Ever since I started following the film on Twitter, I have been excited. Yes, I received an autographed copy and watched it immediately, but still can't wait to see it on the silver screen. I am sure the cinematography will be better, but the film is so much more than that. Following Kye Peterson's journey to ski the trail that killed his father never turns sappy, but more of a tribute to those that have paid the ultimate price doing what they love the most.
Check out more info here
Meatheads: Wild Stallions
Northeastern UniversityTuesday, October 13, 8:00 (next week!!)
Room #20 West Village F
40 Leon St., Boston, MA
Have to give props to the boys who brought ski films to the East. We are proud of our 6 inch powder days and icy slopes...makes us stronger...right? Their description says it all "Renowned for their endurance and aggressive behavior, Wild Stallions are notoriously elusive and rarely captured on film." Plus, who can deny the awesomeness that has slaps of meat as a main component to their corporate image?
Check out info here.
MSP: In Deep
The Brattle TheaterCambridge, MA
October 19 - 8pm (doors open at 7)
Judging by all their recent sold out shows, MSP's In Deep is not one to miss this season. The movie reveals the common bond between those in the park and those backpacking up the ridge, a passion for snow and the sport. In their own words "whether it be a double cork 1260, a deep turn on a storm day or ripping a giant AK line. Skiing is an incredibly diverse sport that offers it all." Its one of the aspects I love about skiing, no matter what your ability, there is always an opportunity to push it to the next level.
Check out more info here.
TGR: Re:Sessions
House of BluesNovember 21, 2009
TGR has a history of great films, and Re:Sessions doesn't look to disappoint. Taking the focus off of traditional films full of tricks and deep powder turns, it moves "into a revolutionary realm of action sports entertainment."
Check out more info here.
Warren Miller's Dynasty
Berklee Performance CenterFriday, November 13, 2009 - 6:30pm & 9:30pm
Saturday, November 14, 2009 - 6:00pm & 9:00pm
Somerville Theatre
Wednesday, November 11, 2009 - 7:00pm
Thursday, November 12, 2009 - 7:00pm & 10:00pm
Every time I watch the trailer for this I get more and more excited. After 60 years of great films, The Warren Miller company is still making amazing movies. This one looks to combine all those years in one epic adventure.
Check out more info Here
Level 1 Refresh
Colby College
Waterville, ME
November 3, 2009
Putting these two films one after the other...yup...its totally a marketing ploy. However equally excited for both. Although the closest premiere to Boston is in Waterville, ME (a mere 3-4 hour drive) I think it would be worth it for a lil'road trip to the home state. Refresh promises to "[Look] looks back and challenges perspectives of where the sport has come from, and where it’s going." Like everything else in the world, things are changing quickly, so sometimes it is interesting to gain perspective into what once was.
Check out more info here.
Every time I watch the trailer for this I get more and more excited. After 60 years of great films, The Warren Miller company is still making amazing movies. This one looks to combine all those years in one epic adventure.
Check out more info Here
Level 1 Refresh
Colby CollegeWaterville, ME
November 3, 2009
Putting these two films one after the other...yup...its totally a marketing ploy. However equally excited for both. Although the closest premiere to Boston is in Waterville, ME (a mere 3-4 hour drive) I think it would be worth it for a lil'road trip to the home state. Refresh promises to "[Look] looks back and challenges perspectives of where the sport has come from, and where it’s going." Like everything else in the world, things are changing quickly, so sometimes it is interesting to gain perspective into what once was.
Check out more info here.
Edge of Never
Coolidge CornerBrookline, Ma
November 18, 2009 - 7pm
The Brattle Theatre
Cambridge, Ma
November 17, 2009 - 7pm
I saved the best for last. Ever since I started following the film on Twitter, I have been excited. Yes, I received an autographed copy and watched it immediately, but still can't wait to see it on the silver screen. I am sure the cinematography will be better, but the film is so much more than that. Following Kye Peterson's journey to ski the trail that killed his father never turns sappy, but more of a tribute to those that have paid the ultimate price doing what they love the most.
Check out more info here
Thursday, October 8, 2009
The Taste is Gonna Move You
My friend posted this on Facebook yesterday and I can't resist posting it here. The clip is of an 80s Juicy Fruit commercial featuring eager skiers hitting the slopes. Some amazing things about this clip:
1) The Stick Straight Skis - Sometime when looking around the slopes today, we forget that skis were at one time VERY straight and long. I remember when racers started skiing on the Rossignol "fatties" and we all thought they were crazy. Still love when I hop on the chair with old skool skiers rockin' the 80s straight boards.
2) Everyone is wearing Aviators - let's face it, these are never going to go out of style. Although sturdier variations are being made, they make you feel badass no matter if they were bought at a convenience store or Dragon.
3) The Acrobatics - The Daffy was an 80s favorite. I thought I was ssssooo cool when I first managed to pull it off and continued to do it every time I went over a mini-roller.
4) Lastly...it reminds me of Aspen Extreme...enough said.
Here you go:
1) The Stick Straight Skis - Sometime when looking around the slopes today, we forget that skis were at one time VERY straight and long. I remember when racers started skiing on the Rossignol "fatties" and we all thought they were crazy. Still love when I hop on the chair with old skool skiers rockin' the 80s straight boards.
2) Everyone is wearing Aviators - let's face it, these are never going to go out of style. Although sturdier variations are being made, they make you feel badass no matter if they were bought at a convenience store or Dragon.
3) The Acrobatics - The Daffy was an 80s favorite. I thought I was ssssooo cool when I first managed to pull it off and continued to do it every time I went over a mini-roller.
4) Lastly...it reminds me of Aspen Extreme...enough said.
Here you go:
Wednesday, October 7, 2009
Pics and Vids from Opening Day
Pictures and videos found around the web of the first (official) day of skiing. Earliest opening day in 40 years. Good to see the diehards out there:
CBS Morning News Report
Freeskier Mag's first ride up the Lift:
Some Official Pics from the Loveland Ski Site:
Twitpics from Shayboarder:
So jealous...wish I could be there!!
CBS Morning News Report
Freeskier Mag's first ride up the Lift:
Some Official Pics from the Loveland Ski Site:
Twitpics from Shayboarder:
So jealous...wish I could be there!!
Tuesday, October 6, 2009
Opening Day!!!!
Although I live in the East, it is exciting to see the Western resorts opening for business. This also means that the East is one step closer to opening their resorts, which makes us one day closer to hitting the slopes. The early picture of hikers cutting tracks is already making me get my boards out from the basement. Although they just sit ideally next to my bed, they are ready to go. Alright, enough with the intro and onto the info:
Loveland is opening TOMORROW. After the constant Twitter conversation about the #racetoopen, Loveland pulled ahead. If the picture does not get you excited...what are you doing on this site anyway?
Opening day 2009 comes a full week before last season, a good sign that the snow Gods are smiling down on us.
Coming in a close second (I know, first loser...but maybe a slow clap?), A-Basin is set to open this Friday. Although they may have missed out on breaking the ribbon, the pictures sure make them look ready. Hikers should have a good time, who needs chairlifts?
Lets hope these early opening days are a sign to come of an AMAZING winter.
Loveland is opening TOMORROW. After the constant Twitter conversation about the #racetoopen, Loveland pulled ahead. If the picture does not get you excited...what are you doing on this site anyway?Opening day 2009 comes a full week before last season, a good sign that the snow Gods are smiling down on us.
Coming in a close second (I know, first loser...but maybe a slow clap?), A-Basin is set to open this Friday. Although they may have missed out on breaking the ribbon, the pictures sure make them look ready. Hikers should have a good time, who needs chairlifts?Lets hope these early opening days are a sign to come of an AMAZING winter.
Origins
When Perry, Megan, and I first started throwing names around for the website, Chinese Downhill was the first to come up. We tried to resist, was it appropriate? However, the more and more we talked among ourselves and others, we found that no other name would do.
With Chinese Downhill on the verge of launching, there has been no lack of questions about the name's origin. Since I can't resist a good 80s ski clip, here is my best explanation:
With Chinese Downhill on the verge of launching, there has been no lack of questions about the name's origin. Since I can't resist a good 80s ski clip, here is my best explanation:
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