Banff 11-Week Ski Instructor Course ‘08

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WEEK 1

After waking at 5.30am to begin my journey I arrived at the airport. I had the shakes and my a huge fry up wasn’t soothing my nervous energy. However after meeting the other NONSTOPpers I relaxed and we painstakingly queued for security. Disappointingly I wasn’t frisked by the bearded guard.

Finally settled on the plane, I was fortunate enough to be sitting next to a charming elderly lady who took it upon herself to educate me in Canadian culture. As you can imagine the nine hour trip flew by (No pun intended).

We touched down in Calgary, bussed it to Banff and I checked in to find my room mate was missing - his connecting flight was late due to high winds aka a hang over (you be the judge). A whole day passed with no sign of him. Meanwhile we were taken on a tour of Banff .

We were given an amazing talk on equipment which helped me to choose which skis and boots to buy. After I went back to my room and hearing voices within I took a deep breath and opened the door to what I thought might be a 6’4” goth with thigh high boots and dog collar, however he turned out to be a Scot with a great distain for the English and French. I informed him that I was both and that my name was Jack.

Over the next few days we skied three resorts in small groups with the instructors rotating groups so we could meet them all. Tysen, the fearless leader of NONSTOP Ski & Snowboard also organised several social nights helping us to form firm friendships early on.

Whew! What a week though, travel, lots of information, meeting new people and having a blast on the slopes!

Jack Holmes

WEEK 2

First full week on the slopes, the view is amazing and the snow even better. Thursday was great with dinner at the Elk & Oarsman and Johnny Minto’s birthday (one too many drinks).

Friday our weekend started after 4 days of “chilly” skiing, it’s f*** freezing out here!
Some of us had the Avalanche Course on Friday (inclusive hangover) and some had a First Aid.

It was a great week, with many more to follow - a great group, good organisation, snow, sun and nights out, all make the perfect ingredients!

Sarah Van Praag