Family Gathering: Who`s Shaking What in UK Skiing

ISSUE O1. OCT/ NOV 03.
REBIRTH OF COOL.
Family Gathering: Who’s Shaking What in UK Skiing
Stand in Line: The Line Skis & ACG Team
Glen Plake: The Man Who Saved Skiing
Only Mad Dogs & Britishmen: AIM Series Championships
Weapon of Choice: The best Skis of 2003/04
:: Cover skier_Kent Kreitler
:: location_NZ Heli Ski
:: photo_Ross Woodhall
Editor In Chief
Daniel Crawford
[email protected]
07986 669 244
Editor
Zack Wragg
[email protected]
07815 888 157
Editorial Contributors
Andy Bennett
Chris fecher
Jim Adlington
Gavin Carruthers
Paddy Graham
Julian Topham
Photographic Contributors
Ross Woodhall
Chris O’Connell
Russ Shea
Alex Ekins
dopeshots.com
verbierride.com
I’m sitting on the train as I write this, on my way to the printers whose
tone of voice has become increasingly agitated over the past 6 days.
Coincidentally, that is when we last promised them the artwork for
this, our first issue.
I wanted to avoid this editorial being too self indulgent and personal
but as time runs out and I attempt to explain the motives behind
launching Dark Summer, I realise that the reasons are wholly personal.
Sixteen rich years ago, a little rough around the edges and without
invitation, I arrived at the foot of the French Alpes. I was totally in awe
and it was a turning point in my life. Skiing brought me focus, taught
me respect, led me to travel while gifting me with friends from all over
the world and always left me thirsting for more.
Winter has become my obsession, my raison d’être... My dark summer.
The law of averages says that there are plenty more like me and
judging by the number of characters I’ve met through skiing and snowboarding, there’s a veritable army out there.
There’s something of a revolution going on in skiing at the moment
and it’s got its verve back. Skiers are the ones starting to lay down
the law in the funparks now and it’s all unashamedly snowboard
influenced. For a growing number, it’s not just a holiday – it’s a lifestyle.
We believe that freeriding is the heartbeat of skiing. Whether you’re
into big mountain, funpark or backcountry, we hope Dark Summer will
become the voice and forum for the UK freeride movement. For that
we need your opinion and feedback. So drop us an email, send us a
postcard, get in touch. Go ride, the rains will come.
– Daniel
THE VIEWS EXPRESSED IN THIS MAGAZINE ARE NOT NECESSARILY THOSE OF THE PUBLISHERS OR EDITORS. WE OCCASIONALLY USE MATERIAL THAT WE
BELIEVE HAS BEEN PLACED IN THE PUBLIC DOMAIN. SOMETIMES IT’S NOT POSSIBLE TO IDENTIFY OR CONTACT THE COPYRIGHT OWNER. IF YOU CLAIM
OWNERSHIP OF PUBLISHED MATERIAL WE’LL BE HAPPY TO MAKE PROPER ACKNOWLEDGMENT. WE ASSUME NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR LOSS OR DAMAGE OF
UNSOLICITED MATERIAL BEING SENT TO US. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.
Thanks to
Samantha Chapman
Andy Tye
John McKiernan
Sheffield Ski Village
Iain Martin
Ross McCloy
Liz Burkey
Mark Lomas
Stu Brass
Jenny Ahnell
Reb Kelly
Chris Seaman
Shelley Jones
Andrea Conneelly
Adam Sullivan
Alan Morrice
Nathan at 88
Joel Peters
Luke Langsdale
Adam Blackburne
Adrian Swift
Published by
Dark Summer Ltd
143 Walkley Crescent Road
Sheffield S6 5BA
United Kingdom
Contact
[email protected]
Welcome to Dark Summer Freeride Ski Magazine.
Well, here we are at the end of some very difficult months for us. We
have been working flat out trying to get this magazine up and running,
and here it is. We are proud to have you guys here at the start of
what we believe will become the best UK ski magazine.
This journey started for me because it got to the point when I didn’t
actually want to pick up or buy any of the current UK ski magazines
any more. They didn’t seem to provide what I was looking for, which
was that core culture of the sport. As we have been working on Dark
Summer, I’ve been reminiscing about the old skate magazines I used
to pick up in the late 80’s. I would only have been about 10 years
old then but I loved to read about all the things that went on in the
skate world. The snowboard magazines followed this trend and fully
supported the sport. That is what I think skiing has lacked in the UK
and that is what we aim to address with Dark Summer.
So, what you have in your hand is the first issue of what we hope
will be the future of skiing. Over the next year we want Dark Summer
to continually improve, but we can’t do it alone. This is a magazine for
you and people like you. We want you to want to pick it up. We want
it to be of use to you. So, the bottom line is this, if you like what we
are doing, let us know. If you think what we are doing is awful, let us
know that too. Let your voice be heard.
– Zack
www.darksummer.co.uk
DARKSUM M E R . CO.UK : 0 5
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"Do not fear death so much, but
rather the inadequate life."
- Bertolt Brecht
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skier_BoyD Easley
photo_Chris O’Connell
"Danger is a beautiful thing when
it is purposefully sought out."
- Ernest Hemmingway
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skier_Jim Adlington
location_Pemberton heli ski
British columbia : Canada
photo_Ross Woodhall
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"It is not because things are difficult
that we do not dare;
It is because we do not dare
that they are difficult."
– Seneca (4BC – 65AD)
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skier_Tanner Hall
photo_Chris O’Connell
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News : Gossip : Lies : Rumours
Orange revealed as sponsor of AIM Series
Orange, the UK’s most popular mobile phone service was unveiled as the major sponsor of
the AIM Series by the organisers Soul Sports Events.
The announcement was made on Saturday 18th (Oct) at the Orange Big Air Championships
held in the new XSCAPE snowdome in Castleford. Under the three year deal, Orange is to
become communications partner and title sponsor to the entire AIM Series, which will now be
known as the Orange AIM Series.
The sponsorship reflects Orange UK’s increased activity in the youth market place. Orange
UK’s commitment to the AIM series will extend its reach from the pinnacle of the sport through
to a commitment at grass roots level.
Announcing the deal, John Allwood, Executive Vice-President of Orange UK said: “Orange
is very pleased to announce this association with such a dynamic and aspirational sport.
We chose the AIM Series because it represents the highest level circuit for competitive
snowboarding and freestyle skiing in the UK with the endorsement of a recognised
international professional structure.”
Stu Brass and Spencer Claridge of Soul Sports Events, the organisers of the AIM Series,
said: "We are very happy to have Orange onboard as title sponsor of the AIM Series and the
British Snowboard and Freestyle Ski Championships. With their strong involvement in the
youth lifestyle market they share our goal to get young people more active through alternative
sports and interests and in this case raise awareness of these two sports."
Orange will launch a WAP-based information service, providing regular updates on extreme
sports events including AIM Series heats and results, an Orange AIM Series Beginners Guide
to Snowboarding, downloadable Java games (including Snowboarding Fever, Freestyle X
and Sno-Pro), snow and weather reports and a range of ringtones and logos.
Users can also register for hints and tips from the Orange AIM Series experts. By texting
SNOW to ‘82888’ customers can keep updated with free editorial content including latest
news, competitor profiles and event schedules. Orange will also be working with third parties
to provide new and exclusive content to keep extreme sports lovers in the know.
Castleford Xscape opens
Champagne corks popping, babes in bikinis
and the top skiers and boarders of the UK
were all part of the official opening party of
the new Castleford Xscape centre on 9th
October 2003.
PY Gerbeau proved that the Xscape pockets
were deep with a solid performance on the
Galaxy FM stage.
Among the many riders were Joe Blackwell,
Mike Wakefield, the Line ACG Pro Team and
our very own Zack Wragg going huge.
The only complaint was the flat light. Not
being able to see the bumps and dips
caused a few problems but the riders coped
well. All in all a wicked night on what will be a
great slope. www.xscape.co.uk
Refrigerator Comp
On Saturday 22 November, Ellis Brigham
are organising another Refrigerator Open
Competition at the Milton Keynes Xscape.
The format for the comp has been decided by
the Ellis Brigham Development Team riders.
It is to be held as a jam session with spot
prizes on the slope for any skiers pushing
their own personal limits. It is believed that
there will be a £10 entry fee and this money
will go to BackUp (a ski based charity for
spinal injuries). The overall winners of the
competition will be decided by the riders
themselves at the end of the session. If you
want more info about the Refrigerator Open,
keep your eyes on www.ellis-brigham.com/
ebfreeski.htm or give the MK store a call on
01908 60912.
Faction Skis
Following hot on the heels of new ski brands
such as Line and Armada, Faction Skis are
out to produce what they feel are the best allmountain ski for the serious riders out there.
For the first season they're producing one
model of ski in two lengths. "The smaller size
is perfect as a park and all-mountain ski for
medium ability guys or as a big-mountain ski
for advanced women skiers, while the 185 is
the big-mountain ski for advanced male skiers." For more info point your mouse at their
very cool website: www.factionskis.com
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DrakeBoinay Skis
Ever wanted a ski made just for you? Surfers have their boards crafted to suit their physical
characteristics and style, so why shouldn't we have the same treatment. That was the
thinking that prompted Stephan Drake and Cyrille Boinay to try to change the way we buy
skis. They are starting with three basic shapes and will add more 'client-driven' designs to
their quiver. All their skis are custom flexed for the buyer, and you also get the opportunity
to sign your skis topsheet before it is laminated, giving you a unique ski. For more info visit
www.dbskis.com or email [email protected]
Pure Freeride Ski Camps
Ever wanted to experience true freeskiing, the
kind you see on the ski movies? Now’s your
chance. Chris Fecher has started Pure Freeride
ski camps, and along with a host of the best UK
freeskiers, he will put you through your paces in
the most dynamic freeskiing destination in the
world, the legendary Chamonix Valley.
“I simply want to offer skiers a better choice, Pure
Freeride’s innovative concept provides a safe
learning environment and a place where skiers
can develop their skills with some of the best pro
freeskiers around” said Chris Fecher, Director.
Pure Freeride offer two kinds of camps:
Freeride Camp:
A one-week journey into the life of a pro freeskier. We will give you a slice of a full season’s
freeskiing condensed into one week. Reading the mountain and using every bank, bump and
hollow so that you’re skiing movements become natural and flowing. A place where you can
truly develop your skills in a relaxed and fun environment.
Backcountry week:
This week is aimed at people wanting to get off the beaten track, and learn some of the
essential skills required to safely explore this exciting new world. UIAGM Guides and UK
freeskiers will take you to the heart of the Chamonix backcountry and show you the true
meaning of backcountry freeskiing.
For more info visit www.purefreeride.com or email [email protected]
Stay with Nomadic Ski in the ultimate winter sports resort
* Catered Chalets to suit every group
* Spectacular views, Open fires, Home entertainment systems
* Gourmet home cooked food
* Resort minibuses take you to and from the ski areas.
* Owned and run by enthusiasts
Home to the Pure Freeride ski camps this winter. Details at
www.purefreeride.com
www.nomadicski.com
+44 20 8772 1108
[email protected]
Seth Morrison Chronicles
[Matchstick Productions]
Ski Movie III: The Front Line
[Matchstick Productions]
MSP put another quality vid
on the shelves. It gives a full
documentary style look at Seth’s
career from the eighties when he
was re-inventing the ski industry
to 90ft rodeo’s in AK. If you are
into big mountain vids and want
to know more about the growth
of skiing and development of the
current king of the hill – watch
this movie. Although it doesn’t
show much new footage and if
you’ve seen the Front Line you
will have seen the best of Seth.
Released last season, the Front
Line succeeds in being the greatest installment of the trilogy so far.
Insane footage of Seth in Alaska,
Eric Pollard and Stian Hagen
ripping up Norway’s Mecca, Pep
Fujas and Mike Douglas tearing up
the ice cap in Whistler, Candide
destroying the monster hip in
Mammoth with a 180-foot cork 5,
Tanner ripping up the park and
CR Johnson taking it backcountry.
Combined with a killer soundtrack
this is a must-see for any skier.
Exact Science
[PleHouse]
Warren Miller’s ‘Storm’
[Warren Miller Entertainment]
Another classic jib flick from a new
Canadian production house. It’s
a chilled 40 minutes of backcountry
booters, superpipes and parks set
to a lot of French rap. As always
the 3 Phils put down good segments as does Mickael Deschanaux
– Europe’s answer to Tanner Hall
(check his switch cork 1080 that
won him a Gold at the US Open).
It doesn’t offer much that hasn’t
been seen before but it’s good to
see some other riders getting some
camera time. Worth watching.
Focused
[Matchstick Productions]
MSP’s new release has all you’d
expect with big lines, high budget
footage and two gods from the big
mountain Hugo Harrison and Seth
Morrison. This film shows skiing at
its best showcasing a mixture of
Seth’s 90ft back flips, Eric Pollards
soul searching on Alaskan kickers and park legends Pep Fujas
and CR Johnson pulling cork 3’s
off cliffs and getting 20ft airs out of
the pipe. Great for watching big
mountain segments but doesn’t do
justice to the progressions of the
park scene featuring only a couple
of the current big names.
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Kicking off winter without a Warren
Miller flick is like Xmas TV without
an Oliver re-run. You roll your eyes
at the mere mention but without it
something’s not quite right. And so
we’re served up the usual dish of
cheesy slow-motion footage of US
skiers while punter skiers clumsily
make fools of themselves. In its
defence, Storm was better than
I feared and after a slow start, finally
gets some momentum with footage
of Seth Morrison and Doug Coombs
in AK, Glenn Plake backcountry
camping and the retracing (on skis)
of Shakleton’s trek for survival.
Transcendence
[Absinthe Films]
OK, it’s a snowboard film and two
season’s old at that. However,
Transcendence is worthy of mention based purely on its excellent
level of production. Beautiful cinematography, the most stylish riders
and stunning locations... Justin
Hostynek and Patrick Ambruster
created a film that simply raised
the standard of (snowsport) film
making. Low on attitude, big on
burly descents and accompanied
by a killer soundtrack. To coin
a phrase, if you’re only ever going
to watch one snowboard video...
1 Dainese 'Multisport Body Armour' (does not include waist strap)_£139.00 // 2 The North Face 'Base Camp Duffle' bag_£90.00 // 3 Vans (Tony Trujillo)
TNT' shoes_£55.00 // 4 Von Zipper 'Rhombus' sunglasses_£50.00 // 5 Leatherman 'SuperTool 200'_£84.99 // 6 Adidas 'Yodai' goggles_£50–£79.95 // 7 The
North Face 'McMurdo Parka'_£210.00 // 8 Red 'Skycap' helmet_£59.95 // 9 Garmin 'Etrex Summit GPS'_£210.00 // 10 Vans 'Rowley XL2' shoes_£65.00
T HANKS TO BLACK DIAMOND
TI TL E S AVAILABLE TH ROUGH
www.blackdiamond.co.uk
DARKSUM M E R . CO. UK : 0 1 5
( WORDS ZACK & DANNY
PHOTOS
12
THE UK MASSIVE! )
Jim Adlington_1
A sponsored freeskier since ‘99,
Jim claims his motivation was
that he “wanted to be a snowboarder on skis”. He’s one of the
nicest, most chilled-out guys and
rips both in the park and the
backcountry. Jim increasingly
spends time encouraging upand-coming skiers on the circuit.
4
18
17
Chris Fecher_2
After 6 years of sponsorship,
Chris is respected and renowned
for his flawless, smooth, powerful
skiing style. He’s laid down turns
in almost every corner of the
world and is the Ellis Brigham
Freeski Team Manager. Chris
also operates the ‘PureFreeride’
ski camps in Chamonix.
James Vernon_5
James wandered off to the Alps
for a season and 6 years later
still hasn’t found his way back.
He now boasts a healthy list
of sponsors and a blossoming
career in ski filming beckons.
In between breaths, the mediasavvy James also publishes
www.freerideculture.com
1
Adam Sullivan_18
This boy has got more fingers
in pies than most of us have on
2 hands. A former British Slalom
champion, his penchant for skin
tight lycra is legendary. Adam is
the BSSF Commercial Director,
runs Lokate promotions and is
a huge fund raiser for British skiing. We take our hats off to that.
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14
Glenn Parsons_3
Picking up healthy sponsors on
the back of a list of impressive
Big Air competition results, Glenn
still competes but increasingly
spends a good deal of his winters in Switzerland doing photo
shoots. It all began aged 12 with
his Uncle forcing him to watch
extreme ski videos says Glenn.
Jamie Strachan_4
Described as the original ‘UK ski
rock star’ and probably the best
known freerider from the UK.
He’s been living in Chamonix
for almost 10 years and is the
influence behind the ChamJam.
In his spare time he designs
graphics for Volkl skis and has
launched clothing label, Dosnu.
Pike Truelove_17
Pike’s lifestyle as a freelance
photograper is probably the most
envious of all. Either side of wintering in Serre Chevalier, Pike’s
usually to be found sunning himself in the Carribbean. Leaves a
wake of destruction wherever he
goes and makes a lethal cocktail
when mixed with Ross Woodhall.
who’s who
8
7
Listing 25 or so of the most
influential people in UK skiing
was always going to be a contentious task and we apologise
to the worthy names that will
inevitably have been forgotten.
We don’t profess to it being the
most comprehensive list, but
check out any (UK) ski mag,
film, TV show or attend an
event and you’re almost guaranteed the involvement of at
least one of these names.
2
10
19
6
16
15
9
5
13
3
Guy Chambers & Jim Odoire
On the annual Warren Miller tour,
Jim Odoire is the man you see
pacing the stage amping the
crowd Anthony Robbins style.
Black Diamond are the purveyors of extreme sport films that
chronicle the progression of our
sport and offer insight to what’s
happening around the globe.
Mark and Holly Junak
Both excellent photographers
in their own right, this wellknown couple have more than
25 years of photography experience between them. Equally
skilled in fashion, lifestyle and
action, the couple are based
in St Foy, France where they
mainly work with UK riders.
Stu Brass_19
Made his mark as a pro snowboarder and now a driving force
in the development of young UK
riders. His events company and
popular website, Soulsport.co.uk,
have gone to great lengths in
bridging the skier/snowboarder
divide and saw the inclusion of
skiing for this years AIM Series.
Andy Topping_6
Andy is known for 2 things: his
great skiing and his huuuuuuge
afro hair. A product of Stoke Ski
Centre, Andy has asserted
himself as one of the UKs best
freeride skiing prospects having
won the Salomon Search for
a Star competition. His is a name
that you’ll keep on hearing.
Dave Young_8
At just 27 Dave is one of the old
boys of UK ‘new skool’ freestyle.
Whatever cliffs you have dropped
and kickers you have hit, Dave
will have done them bigger and
better – though not without consequences. Always happy, Dave
even manages to flash a smile
when staggering out of casualty.
Eddie Thelwell_9
‘Slave Monkey’ to his friends,
Eddie is Salomon and Oakley’s
hottest li’l rider. A unique character, Eddie has become a mascot
of all things skiing. He and Andy
Bennett are founders of the
‘Kneesall Massive’ (jib crew).
Eddie also plays drums for punk
band ‘Duty Free’.
Andrea Conneely_11
From sponsored skier to working
for various ski companies over
the years. Andrea has a long history in the industry both on and
off the snow and her knowledge
is extensive. One of the coolest
cats around and can this girl
ski! Don’t even think about it
– there’s a ring on her finger!
Mark Shapiro_13
Why stop with Greg Rusedski
and Lennox Lewis? Mark’s
another Canadian we’re going
to claim as one of our own. His
stunning photography seems to
have graced every credible ski
magazine in the world. Mad as
a bag of kittens (see photo) and
living the dream in Verbier.
Warren Smith_14
Warren appears to do virtually
everything that’s possible within
skiing. He instructs through the
Warren Smith Ski Academy and
summer camps, he makes ski
movies such as ‘Snows In The
House 2’ and he organises both
the Verbier and Saas Fee Ride.
What next – a knighthood?
Mike Weyerhaeuser_15
While actually American, he’s
based in Europe now and we’re
gonna’ claim him as one of our
own! Mike’s a genuinely nice
guy who loves to fuse skiing,
snowboarding and photography resulting in tremendous
imagery for the UK ski and
snowboard media to fight over.
Dan Milner
Chamonix based Dan Milner
is probably best known for his
work with snowboarders. but
he’s recently started working
with more and more skiers.
A great, funny, friendly guy who
always makes the riders feel
at ease in order to achieve
the best shots.
Andy Bennett_7
One of the best freeskiers in the
UK at the moment. Andy boasts
an impressive list of podium
placings in international comps.
He’s set to put himself firmly on
the International map with amazing skills in moguls, big air, half
pipe and freeriding. Andy will be
based in Verbier this season.
Jason Schutt
Another product of the Sheffield
Ski Village, Jason spends winters in Chatel and summers in
Wanaka. Very active on the
freeride competition circuit and
claimed 6th place overall (and
top Brit) at the Verbier Ride ‘03.
Watch for him trying to improve
on that at this year’s event.
Alain Baxter_10
The drama... Stripped of bronze
at Salt Lake after a positive test
for ‘banned substances’ that
turned out to be nasal spray!
The heartache... The decision
was eventually reversed but
no medal returned. There’s
nowt us Brits like more than
an underdog.
Ross Woodhall_12
Foul mouthed, obnoxious, rude
and difficult to work with – Ross
is the life and soul of any dinner
party and the UK snowsport
industry would be all the poorer
without him. His eye for lighting
and composition have made him
one of the UK’s most respected
and in-demand photographers.
Hamish Wolfenden
If there’s such a thing as a boottechnician to the stars then Ham
is the man. From Moseley to Jon
Ollson and even Prince Charles
(not that it does much for his
wack skiing ability), Hamish
could make even Mike Tyson’s
plates look elegent and comfortable in a pair of ski boots.
John Norris
If the truth be known, we don’t
know much about Mr Norris. For
all we do know he could be the
bigger, badder brother of Chuck
in which case we’ll avoid any
smart-ass comments to say that
we’ve grown up with his ski photography and he still produces
great cover shots to this day.
Iain Martin_16
The man behind Natives.co.uk.
A season worker for 6 years, Iain
decided to launch the site to help
others find work in the mountains. Natives.co.uk has become
a community for skiers thanks
to his dedication to the sport.
A tremendously nice, helpful guy
and an amazing skier to boot.
The Brighams & Taylors
Ellis Brigham and Snow + Rock
are the 2 largest ski specialist
chains. Sure, we love and support our independent shops but
these larger companies give the
UK more clout in the buying
market and are able to support
efforts such as the Ellis Brigham
Freeski team. Respect!
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The riders were ripping it up and eventually
Frenchman Romain Raisson claimed the overall top
spot with fellow countryman Thomas Diet in 2nd and
Norwegian, Per Mundhjeld, rounding up in 3rd.
On day two I didn’t make it to the Skier-X event as
I was practicing in the park for the Slopestyle.
Norwegian, Frederik Lutkyis took first in the men’s
and Martina Renschler in the girl’s.
The organisers put in a lot of effort to ensure that the
funpark was in the best possible condition for the
Slopestyle comp. The atmosphere was really relaxed
with nobody seeming to care who won as long as the
riders were having a good time. Despite poor visibility,
all of the riders tried their best to entertain the crowd.
Glenn Parsons decided to ignore his injured shoulder
and was out there throwing corked 7’s and linking
them with rail slides to finish 4th. Local rider Mattias
was the only person to master the huge battleship rail at
the bottom of the course and claimed 3rd with big spins
all day. I came in 2nd and Aussie Ben Murphy won by
miles! He was busting corked 360’s and corked 900
switch flips and greased most of the rails!
Between all of the skiing nonsense was a lot of action
in the bars during the evenings that culminated in
a big, messy end-of-event party.
( WORDS ANDY BENNETT
PHOTOS
VERBIERRIDE.COM )
Jason Schutt nailed some insane
lines and great cliff drops to show
that the Brits can hold their own
in a strong international field
finishing a respectable 6th overall.
VERBIER. SWITZERLAND. 8TH-12TH MARCH 2003.
Spread over four days, the Verbier Ride is an annual freeski festival that consists
of Big Mountain Freeride, Skier-X and Slopestyle. Previous Verbier Ride’s
have proved so successful that this year’s event was officially recognised
as a qualifier for the 2004 Winter X-Games as well as a sanctioned leg of the
IFSA European tour. Andy Bennett, one of the UK slopestyle competitors,
filled us in on the action.
The Big Mountain Freeride comp kicked things off and I made my way up the mountain in
a rather hungover state to sit and watch the event. Unfortunately, two strong British contenders,
Glenn Parsons and Andy David, were unable to enter due to injury problems. However, my
North Face team mate, Jason Schutt, nailed some insane lines and great cliff drops to show
that the Brits can hold their own in a strong international field finishing a respectable 6th overall.
The Verbier Ride has proved so successful that
event organiser, Warren Smith, held a Saas Fee
Ride during the summer. The event was held alongside a summer camp making it easy for the young
guns to have a crack at beating the big names.
I think the event was originally supposed to be
a slopestyle comp but due to the lack of features
and other problems they decided to hold a big air
event instead. Tom Last finished joint 1st with
Marcus Kaiser. Tom threw a sick rodeo 7 tail grab
whilst Marcus was busting Rodeo 5’s along with
Corked 720’s and sticking them every time! Glen
Parsons came in 2nd with a smooth corked 7 and
I came in 3rd with what I hope was a super-styley
Zero Spin. Trick of the day had to be Milo De
Glandville’s perfectly nailed under flip 540 earning
him fourth place.
Both events are being held again next year and are
destined to be even bigger and better. For more info
on these events check out www.verbierride.com
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( WORDS / ILLUSTRATION DANNYBOY )
( INTRO DANNYBOY
REVIEWS
ZACK WRAGG )
It seems almost a cliché to say that there are no bad skis being manufactured nowadays, but it’s not far from the
truth. Ski technology during the past five years has experienced immense progression and if you last bought skis
when Duran Duran were in the charts – do yourself a favour and invest in some new sticks this season. The cuts
and lengths have been nothing short of revolutionised which directly transfers into improved performance.
In short, the latest crop of skis snap in and out of turns more easily, handle crud better and are more buoyant
through powder. With the benefit of modern skis you will be improving at a faster rate than if you persevere with your
clumsy old equipment and that could slice days off you trying to get back up to scratch on your next ski trip. And
if you’re only away for a week...
Like a couple of scallywags, we managed to blag our way onto the industry tests earlier in the year and we’re listing
what we believe are the best in their category rather than bore you to death by featuring every ski released this
season. Quite simply, all of the skis here rip – just choose the ones that best suit your skiing style. Prices are only
intended as a rough guide and may vary from shop to shop.
GLenn Plake_THe man who saved skiing
Rewind roughly fifteen years, to a time when there were only a couple of ski-film makers, virtually
no freeskiers (or ‘extreme’ skiers as they were then tagged) eking an existence through sponsorship.
People’s attention, along with marketing budgets, were fast being turned to the new and seemingly
more marketable snowboarding. With its cool, rebellious image, it wasn’t long before snowboarding
nonchalantly had youth culture eating out of its hand. However, one skier didn’t seem to get it and
kept turning up to the party uninvited.
Appearing as a brash Californian with a big attitude and even bigger hair, he didn’t exactly endear
himself to the predominantly staid ski industry, let alone become its revered spokesman. K2 at the
time appeared to be the only ski company willing to
‘extreme skiing’ and armed only with their
“Most people would be cry babying embrace
support, Plake took it upon himself to fly the flag of
over a little icy course and I’d freeskiing and charge head first on a crusade to
keep skiing on the map.
got straight out of a five-band However, there was much more to the man than
a haircut and a bag of tricks. His skills, like many
(punk) show the night before”.
freeskiers, were honed on the mogul fields and
eventually earned him a place on the US ski
team. He’d had the 1.5ft Mohican for years before it became, in his own words, “Somewhat calculated”.
“When I was competing in the Nationals I was the new guy, so I kinda’ did it for intimidation”. He
insisted on riding 225cm planks – what he described at the time as traditional “Proper skis”.
Plake was market savvy and realised the need to keep the image of skiing alive and the importance
of attracting fresh blood to the sport. Whilst obliging sponsors he’d always take the time to inspire,
ski with and encourage younger kids on the hill (myself included).
Plake was the first skier I ever saw doing a jump, in the first ski magazine I ever picked up. I didn’t have
the first idea how you did it or what you called it but I wanted to be part of it. Through his ability
to market himself and the subsequent magazine and film exposure, he managed to get the message
across that skiing wasn’t all about one-piece ski suits, headbands and fondue.
There were other great extreme skiers like Scott Schmidt, but it was as much about what Plake stood
for than what he achieved that opened doors for the Seth’s, Mike Douglas’ and McConkey’s to lay the
foundations of the new skool skiing and freeriding that flourishes today. Glen Plake, we salute you.
020 : DARKSUM M E R . CO.UK
SKIER X
Salomon CrossMax
THE TOP SKIS FOR 2003/04 NOT TO BE CONFINED TO JUST THE SKIER-X COURSE,
THESE SKIS ARE GREAT FOR ANYONE WHO LOVES TO SPEND THEIR TIME RIPPING AROUND
THE PISTE LAYING DOWN SOLID CARVES.
Salomon went back to basics with the
CrossMax this year to bring us a solid
Skier-X model. Fun to ride around the
piste and very smooth through all types
of turns. The grip is excellent and the
edge to edge is amazing. You can cruise
around on these all day and not get bored
of the carving. Faster speeds only favour
the ski more as it holds throughout the
whole turn.
Atomic sx:11
It’s been a while since I’ve had the fear on
a pair of skis, but the Atomic SX-11’s had
me quaking in a good way. They are unbelievably agile and respond to the slightest
pressure. You have to be on it when skiing
the SX-11’s – the slightest lapse in concentration and it could all go wrong. Laying
down nice big floaty GS-style carves are
fun on these and you can also throw your
hip into them for some really whippy short
turns. So much fun and one of my favourite models this year.
Rossignol RPM 100
Built on the success of last years RPMs,
the new RPM 100 is a solid, hardcore ski.
The longer, wider turns are a joy to lean
into. Drop yourself into the turn and it will
throw you out into the next. Hard-pack
snow is your friend here and it feels just
like you are riding on rails. A very aggressive ski for the hardcore carvers who want
to rip pistes of all gradients.
DARKSUM M E R . CO.UK : 0 2 1
BIG MTN.
THE TOP SKIS FOR 2003/04 YOU LIKE THE STEEP AND DEEP? OFF-PISTE IS WHERE
YOU CALL YOUR HOME? THEN THESE ARE FOR YOU. SIX OF THE BEST BIG MOUNTAIN
SKIS FOR THE BACKCOUNTRY RIDERS OUT THERE.
FREERIDE
THE TOP SKIS FOR 2003/04 IF YOU’RE ONLY LOOKING FOR ONE PAIR OF ALL-ROUND
SKIS THAT ARE EQUALLY AT HOME ON OR OFF-PISTE THEN THESE HAVE GOT YOUR
NAME WRITTEN ALL OVER THEM.
Line Mothership
K2 Seth Pistols
Salomon Pocket Rocket
Rossignol Bandit B2
ZAG Freeride Big 84
Line FX 7.3 titanium
Volkl Gotama
Head Mad Trix Mojo
Rossignol Bandit B3
Head Monster I-M 75 Chip
Salomon Scream Pilot Hot
Volkl 724 Motion
Another arrow from the Line quiver and
this one’s made specifically for those
backcountry powder days. It is fat and
floaty in the deep stuff and can cut
through the harder snow pretty well too.
The sidecut of the ski can make slower
speeds and piste skiing a little more difficult, but that is to be expected. The ski
was made for off-piste and it does it well.
The graphics are pretty cool too.
This Gotama is both fat and phat. With a
whopping 105mm under the foot, this is a
ski that doesn’t exactly enjoy short radius
turns. However, put these bad boys in
steep, deep powder and you will have one
of the most hardcore weapons available
to the ski community. You only need to
look at it to know that this ski is serious.
Take these out in the backcountry and you
will experience an unforgettable ride.
022 : DARKSUM M E R . CO.UK
With the Sex Pistols inspired graphics
and the metal studs on the tip and tail,
the Seth Pistols are going to be on every
young freeriders wish list. Ripping down
through soft snow they feel incredibly
stable and for a ski so wide underfoot
they are surprisingly responsive. If I had
to find fault, it’s that they’re not very stiff
and can lack bite on the hard-pack – but
that’s not exactly what they’re intended
for. Seth Morrison designed, tested and
approved... enough said!
The Mojo is the MadTrix’s big brother and
inherits a lot of traits from the park version.
It’s very stable and has a nice, smooth flex
making it great in deeper softer snow, but
in the harder stuff the Mojo begins to struggle. The snakeskin top surface and graphics are carried over from the MadTrix park
model which looks the business. Another
ski that loves the powder but doesn’t get
on well with the piste.
Again, another Salomon classic that has
remained unchanged for the 2003/4 season. This was the original fat ski and it
has been a tremendous success. Entirely
at home in powder and loves to travel at
speed. Like most off-piste skis, on harder
snow the Pocket Rocket loses it stability
slightly and can rattle around a bit. As we
have come to expect from Salomon, this is
a ski that caters to the whole market – from
the off-piste novice to the seasoned pro.
A fatter version of the B2s, the Bandit
B3s are some serious big mountain skis.
They love the powder like all the other
fat skis, but their stiffness allows them
to ride harder snow pretty well too. At
speed they hold their edge well and cut
through the crud. On the piste they feel
the burden of their width, but you’d only
use the piste to get to the backcountry
on these.
The Bandit B2 replaces the Bandit XX
and carries the torch as Rossignol’s
flagship ski. A slightly re-vamped shape
and a slight twin-tip make this ski more
stable that its predecessor in all conditions. Absolutely everyone agreed that
this ski is an exceptional all-rounder.
It is equally at home both on and offpiste. The only place where it may have
issues is in the bumps, but even then it
will only have a small problem. This is
quite possibly the best all-round ski on
the market at the moment.
A ski with a built-in ‘Intelligence Chip’!
The chip is supposed to help the ski
adapt to varying conditions and, to a certain degree, delivers. The ski itself is a lot
stiffer than you may expect for a freeride
model, but this makes it great for big
wide-arc turns. It also grips well on hardpack at speed. When you slow it down it
doesn’t feel as comfortable or as stable.
Definitely a ski for those who like to lay
down fast wide-arc turn on or off-piste.
When I first saw the Zag Big 84’s I was
a little sceptical. The shape of the ski
and the plain, uninspiring graphics didn’t
exactly grab me. However, having given
them a good go, I was totally won over.
You have to adjust your skiing style to
ride Zag skis effectively. They handle
nicely but need to be skied quite ‘lazily’.
In soft off-piste snow they almost feel as
though they are skiing themselves and
despite struggling slightly on the hardpack, they are still a hell of a lot of fun.
The space-frame and pilot binding systems have made a move across to the
Scream this year. The Scream Pilot Hot
is surprisingly light for a freeride model.
This translates to slight instability when
pushing the ski at speed on hard-pack.
The Scream Pilot Hot seem more at
home and at their best when cruising
around in good off-piste conditions or
playing on-piste.
The FX 7.3 Titanium is a brand new
model for Line and marks their first move
out of the park and into the more freeride
sector. The FX 7.3 Titanium boasts a titanium strip above and below the core to
make this a much stiffer ski than traditional
Line fans may expect. This extra stiffness results in a much more enjoyable
ride on hard-pack. When pushed really
aggressively, they start to lose a little bite.
Overall a good, strong all-rounder.
Built up from the Vertigo Motion of last
year, the 724 Motion’s are happiest offpiste. They’re very stable and solid holding really well in longer turns. The first
thing you will notice is how well they grip
on harder snow. The 724 Motion’s is
definitely a ski for those who like to ride
fast. Fingers crossed that Volkl improve
the dodgy graphics for next season!
DARKSUM M E R . CO.UK : 0 2 3
FREESTYLE
Rossignol Scratch FS
THE TOP SKIS FOR 2003/04 VIRTUALLY EVERY SKI RESORT HAS A FUN PARK
NOWADAYS AND IF YOU’RE THINKING ABOUT HEADING IN THERE OR JIBBING
AROUND ON THE PISTE , THESE ARE THE SKIS FOR THE JOB.
As with last years Scratch FS, we see
snowboard technologies brought to the
ski. The Scratch FS are at home in the
park and pipe but are also not shy in the
backcountry. The Scratch FS are very
responsive in short turns allowing you
to set yourself up just right for your hits
and get yourself safely away on landing.
They’re also pretty handy on rails too.
Overall, a nice park ski that can comfortably handle that little bit more.
LINE SKOGEN SPRANG
Line skis and fun-parks go together like
JD and Coke with the Skogen Sprang
proving no exception. One of the most
enjoyable park skis I have ridden. They
have a remarkable amount of pop which
makes for absolutely amazing take-offs
and landings. However, on the downside,
when out of the park and ripping fast
around the rest of the mountain they
didn’t hold their grip too well. A really nice
park-specific ski with slick graphics.
VOLKL V PRO
Sporting some flash new Austin Powers
inspired graphics from the pen of Jamie
Strachan, the new Volkl V Pro is a winner. It’s a nice, solid ski built for jibbing
in the park as well as playing all over the
mountain. It’s stiff enough to hold well
when pushed at speed and handles challenging off-piste without worries. If you’re
buying one pair of skis that you want to
do everything on this season, the V Pro’s
are a good choice.
A 5,000-strong crowd, one of the largest
snow quarter-pipes in the UK and a flawless
5ft Flare. That’s how Mike Wakefield made
his spectacular transition from snowblades
to skis. All this at the Daily Mail Ski and
Snowboard Show in November 2002 and
since then Mike’s been making his mark
on the ski world. Already helped out with
Salomon sponsorship, Mike’s grabbing the
top spot on the winners podium virtually
every time he enters a competition.
( WORDS ZACK WRAGG MAIN PHOTO DOPESHOTS.COM
Head MadTrix
The new revamped MadTrix was an unexpected delight to ski on. Very versatile in
the park but didn’t handle jibbing around
the rest of the mountain too well. The
MadTrix seemed to really come out of
its shell in the halfpipe. Good stability on
landing and very nice when riding switch
– especially at higher speeds. The only
downside are the graphics needing some
serious livening up! Overall, it’s a solid ski
that can cover the whole mountain well.
024 : DARKSUM M E R . CO.UK
Salomon 1080
The original twin-tip ski remains
unchanged from last year. The versatility of the 1080 ski is renowned and it
comfortably handles most things that the
mountain can throw at it. The 1080 is at
its glorious best in softer, deeper snow
but when you hit the harder stuff you will
feel the edges slide a little more on turns.
The 1080 is a great all-rounder that works
equally well for beginners right through to
advanced skiers.
Atomic Tweak
The Tweak was another surprise. The ski
itself looks nothing special and the graphics could definitely be improved, but out
in the field they really proved themselves
as a solid ski. They ran well in the pipe
and park, and handled switch as well as
any other ski. Out on the piste they rode
reasonably well at speed but do struggle
when the snow gets really hard. Their
stability and strength make them a good
all-rounder.
PORTRAIT
DANNYBOY )
place in 4 of the AIM Series
This summer alone, 17 year-old Mike Wakefield has claimed 1st
ition at the British Ski
compet
Breed
New
.co.uk
rounds and took 1st place in the Natives
ridiculous inverts and
nailing
ld
Sheffie
in
slope
home
his
at
found
be
often
can
Show. Mike
chilling with the staff.
but I reached a point where
Why did you start skiing? Well, I was snowblading for quite a while
[in snowblading] was
future
the
that
realised
I
tricks.
my
with
bigger
I felt I couldn’t go any
myself.
for
es
challeng
limited so I moved onto skis where I could find bigger
head out to Mammoth next
What do you want to do next with your skiing? I am hoping to
I am out there I’m also
While
kickers.
huge
some
hitting
on
season with Dave Young and work
thinking about doing the X-Games qualifiers.
X-Games? I’d love for that
Cool, so we’ll hopefully see you representing the UK in the next
to happen but I will have to wait and see.
540 in the half-pipe, but I think
What’s your best trick? Well, my favourite trick to do is a Flatspin
t.
McTwis
a
or
720
Corked
a
be
to
the best one I do would have
I would love to sort out is
What trick are you mainly working on at the moment? One trick
now.
to
up
once
it
land
to
d
manage
only
have
I
720.
a Switch Misty
love skiing and I train quite a
OK, away from skiing. What other stuff do you do for fun? I
snowboarding, I also do
some
do
and
slope
bit for it. Every now and then I like to go out on the
like to chill out with my
just
I
though,
all
of
Most
too.
arding
skatebo
and
a fair bit of wakeboarding
friends and have some fun.
DARKSUM M E R . CO.UK : 0 2 5
( WORDS / PORTRAITS DANNYBOY
MAIN PHOTOS
ALEX EKINS )
THE LINE SKIS & ACG ALLIANCE
You may have heard about or seen the Line Pro Team on the
slopes around the UK last year but this season has witnessed
changes to the team line up and the forging of an alliance with
sportswear giant Nike ACG to create the ‘Line ACG Pro Team’.
At first glance it looks like the perfect partnership. Line Skis are
one of the younger ski brands that have so far focused their efforts
purely on freeskiing and its development. Sponsoring some of the
hottest up and coming talent, they have had a strong team in the
US for a few years and extended their interest to the UK a couple
of seasons ago. Nike ACG need no introduction and have always
prided themselves as being the renegades of the sports world.
However, they previously seem to have struggled for direction in
the snowpsorts market.
‘Noddy’ Gowans
New on the team
and the senior member at 26 years old.
Loves to take his
Line Motherships out
into the backcountry
and off big powder
kickers. Also does
well in the bar!
026 : DARKSUM M E R . CO.UK
The alliance signals a positive move for all involved and will provide
a stable base for some great young UK riders as well as encourage other ski companies to strengthen the freeride side of their
operation. Hopefully, it will also offer inspiration to younger skiers
seeing that, upon reaching a certain level, great benefits and travel
opportunities exist through freeskiing.
This format has been the blueprint for snowboarding since its
inception. Snowboard companies would select and sponsor riders who, like missionaries, would head off into the big bad world
individually and collectively to compete in competitions, appear
in videos, tour in demo’s and generally spread the word. And it
worked! Skiing, for a while, was left behind like an ugly kid at
prom that no one wants to dance with.
Andy Bennett
Arguably the best
new UK rider on the
ski scene. Grabbed
2nd in the Verbier
Ride slopestyle, 3rd
in the Saas Fee Ride
Big Air and 6th in the
ChamJam slopestyle
last season.
Tom Last
Current British Big Air
Champ and heading
to Verbier with Andy
this coming season.
Another of the young
riders proving the UK
can produce skiers
able to mix it with
the rest of the world.
And so we will see the Line ACG Pro Team touring the UK and
Europe this coming season. The team will perform demo’s for the
crowds who will also have the chance to try out the latest Line Skis
and ACG apparel. Budding freestylers will have the opportunity to
ski with the team where they will be given tips and advice by the
pros. The team are also performing at the large events such as the
Daily Mail Ski and Snowboard Show.
emerging side of skiing further into the mainstream making it more
accessible and appealing to everyone.
Towards the end of the season in April, the team will be coaching
at the Pro Ski Camp in Les Deux Alpes (for more information see
www.proskicamps.com). The team will pass on their tips to anyone
wanting to get into freestyle or add to their existing bag of tricks.
Team rider, Noddy Gowan, said “I think it’s going to be a very positive move from both sides of the table. Line is a very progressive
company into new things and looking towards the future of the
sport. They are young, dynamic, exciting and the leaders in the
‘new Skool’ freeskiing scene. Nike ACG appreciates this and has
seen this as a market that they want to be a part of. They will add
huge support to the team and provide product that will give the
riders the freedom to do what they want, in (pardon the pun) all
conditions. It’s going to be an exciting season!”
The intention behind the Line and ACG alliance is to push the
Visit www.lineacg.com for tour dates and more info.
Joe Hague
The only ski-boarder
on the team. Has a
list of podium places
to rival his teammates. A larger than
life character who’s
jokes and Peter Kay
sketches keep the
crew entertained.
Paddy Graham
Another talented
youngster at the tender age of 15. After
switching over from
ski boards he now
sports some very
smooth D-Spins and
corked 720s in his
bag of tricks.
Murray Buchan
The youngest member of the team at
just 11 years of age.
He’s the youngest
ever sponsored UK
skier and already
nailing 1080’s off
the Hillend kicker!
Truly one to watch
for the future.
DARKSUM M E R . CO.UK : 0 2 7
M
S / COVERT-PROJECTS.CO
( WORDS GAVIN CARRUTHER
)
M
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/ DOP
PHOTOS AIM SERIES
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with the sole purpose of uncove
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up and coming UK ride
final leg
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skiers – 12 months ago
only event!
Air, Slopestyle
The first leg of the UK tour saw Big
hips take
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mpi
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exactly what The Orange
got underway
The Big Air and Slopestyle events
ACG Team
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with the usual suspects from the
ing masbust
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nett
leading the pack. Andy Ben
the
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nailed it smooth.
Edinburgh
The next leg of the tour was up in
Championships.
– home of the National Slopestyle
n away in
bee
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The Line ACG Team may hav
k in town
bac
was
ld
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nt display
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and took no pris
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of corked 7s and misty flips. Loc
to push
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but
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ing
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s.
meant busines
record breaking
Whilst the UK was sweltering in
was a long, cold
s
serie
the
heat, the third round of
e that is Milton
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gian
the
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day spent at –5
l Skier-X threw
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light
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yet another new name into the
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top.
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y
And
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The finals saw a show
and
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things up by
step
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ton.
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the landing.
out
ched
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C rail at
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it
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over the kicker,
place.
first
ther
ano
the foot of the slope that gave him
y enough to
Sheffield, being the only place craz
venue for
the
ingly
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have a halfpipe,
nships.
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round 4 and the National Halfpipe
Mike
net,
Ben
y
The final was made up of And
been pushing
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w for the
sho
t
grea
a
on
ing
putt
their limits and
level by throwing
crowd. Mike stepped it up another
followed by
spin
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down a McTwist, Alley-oop
e the rest were
prov
to
run
one
another Flatspin all in
Champion.
pipe
Half
of
n
crow
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to
just pretenders
l Big Air
Stop 5 in Halifax saw the Nationa
out of ladies at
turn
est
bigg
the
Championships and
to Rachel,
er
che
big
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far.
so
ps
any of the com
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and
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claimed
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beat quite a few of the guys
the
won
ki
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the Women's title and
.
540
sive
mas
men's with a
l Indoor Big Air
The final UK stop sees the Nationa
ape on 18
Xsc
rd
tlefo
Cas
finals take place at
year wraps up
this
es
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AIM
The
3.
October 200
the Alpine
with
in Les Deux Alpes in March 2004
National Championships.
AIM Series visit
For more information on the Orange
www.aimseries.com
028
CO.UK
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M E R .CO.UK
. CO.UK : 0 29
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DARKSUM MER
British achievement in the world of skiing has
been somewhat thin on the ground. However,
one saving grace, one fleeting moment of celluloid magic will forever allow us Brits to hold our
head high in every bar, in every ski town around
the world. Ladies and gentlemen, we give you
the finest moment in the history of British skiing...
Enter 007 in The Spy Who Loved Me.
Greatest Moment in British Skiing
In February next year skiers from around 35 countries
will meet in Neiderau, Austria for
the four yearly World Championships in Alpine skiing.
030 : DARKSUM M E R . CO.UK
Why should this interest you?
Because they are all disabled: some blind or visually impaired,
some permanently confined to wheel-chairs
and others standing with arm or leg amputations.
Should Great Britain be there?
After all, we have competed in every Winter Paralympic Games since
1976 when they started. We have entered the World Cup skiing
circuit annually and on occasions we have won Gold medals on the same
courses as raced by the able bodied Alpine racers.
Our racers mostly fund themselves. BUT, our National Team is
shrinking and soon will be no more, UNLESS you can help.
NATIONAL HANDICAPPED SKIERS ASSOCIATION,
a Charity run by volunteers, runs The British Adaptive Ski Team
on behalf of SnowsportGB. Their small band of
volunteers no longer find it possible to find willing sponsors.
If you think GB should be competing in Alpine Sport what can you do?
Buy tickets at the Ski Show in aid of the skiing charities.
Contact our Chairperson or SnowsportGB to see how you can help.
Donations and volunteer help are always welcome.
Chair of NHSA: [email protected]
SnowsportGB: [email protected]
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