Monarch Mountain is hosting its third-annual, free-to-attend, all day Telefestivus event Saturday, Feb. 9, an event that celebrates the skill and thrill of Telemark skiing.
“It’s a great day for all levels of Telemarkers to check out equipment, and hang out with other free-heel minded people.” Said Kathryn Wadsworth, the event coordinator for Monarch Mountain.
Telemark equipment is a type of downhill skiing equipment where the skier’s boot heel is not attached to the ski. The sport and the equipment are named for Telemark, Norway, where the sport of skiing originated. It’s a combination of alpine and Nordic skiing.
“Telemark equipment is similar to downhill equipment except for the heel of the boot is not connected,” said Wadsworth. “There’s a sense of freedom when Telemark skiing, and in the world of skiing it’s an old style. People used to enable them to hike up mountains and ski down.”
The event will feature a variety of events and activities throughout the day. The day-schedule is as follows:
9 a.m.-3 p.m.: Telemark Equipment Demos
10:30 a.m.: Free, one-hour Telemark equipment Demos
12 noon: High Noon Feats of Strength; uphill/downhill fun races on Freeway and Little Mo
1:30 p.m.: Guided social hike to Mirkwood
2 p.m.: Avalanche Beacon Demos
3:30 p.m.: Airing of Grievances; group ski down Tele Alley
The free Telemark Clinics require the purchase of a lift ticket and a waiver signature. The High Noon Feats of Strength uphill and downhill races also require a waiver signature, but participants will receive a complimentary uphill lift-ticket for those races.
“It’s important that if you want to participate in the free clinics and events throughout the day then you need to provide your own Telemark equipment,” says Wadsworth. “We do have (Telemark) equipment available for rent at area ski shops, but the demos are for a run or two, not for daylong checkout.”
Wadsworth says the resort wants those who may be new to Telemark skiing, as well as the seasoned skiers, to enjoy the Telefestivus Event
“Everyone is encouraged and welcome to come and spend the day and learn more about Telemarking.” Wadsworth said.
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