Sunday, Jan. 25 at 12 p.m. — John Tidd will be teaching his annual Telemark Clinic at Pico Mountain on Sunday, Jan. 25, from 12-4 p.m. Tidd is a PSIA telemark instructor and is the guy you want to connect with regardless of whether you’re hoping to make your first telemark turns, or looking to refine your current skills. Space is limited at this event, and there are only a few spots left.
This course is for skiers looking to tackle more challenging terrain, or those who want to spice up tours by being able to take better advantage of skiable downhill areas. This course will take place on easy, lift-accessed, downhill terrain at Pico and will emphasize skill demonstration, practice, and technique evaluation. This is an introductory level class for the beginning and intermediate telemark skiers looking to develop and refine their skills.
For this course, metal edged skis with three-pin/cable bindings are recommended. Leashes are required, and plastic telemark boots are highly recommended. It is possible to get by with lighter equipment, but if you are just starting to learn more supportive gear will be easier to handle.
The event will run from 12 – 4 p.m. and will offer two groups: one is for those wanting to explore and improve their telemark skills (tele equipment required); the other is for backcountry skiers who want more security and skill to tackle the more challenging downhill parts of a backcountry trail. This group will stay on the beginner slope at Pico and can ski on whatever backcountry touring equipment they normally use (ski leashes still required by law – a length of cord tied to the boot/ankle is acceptable).
For more info, visit catamounttrail.org.
Photo courtesy of Catamount Trail Association
A telemark skier kneels into a turn during a past clinic. Fresh snow is welcomed by all snowsports athletes — although powder can add to the challenge, it also cushions a fall.
