After a slow and relatively snowless early season, things are happening for the Crested Butte Mountain Sports Team. This past weekend, seven members of CBMST got out with Crested Butte Mountain Guides to take an introduction course on avalanche safety. The course consisted of two days of indoor and outdoor instruction. Students familiarized themselves with beacon function and victim rescue, learned about the different types of avalanches and scenarios in which certain avalanches occur. In addition, students braved the sub-zero temperatures and skinned Red Coon glades, where they got to view the recent slide on Coon Bowl. The course was taught by Ian Havlick and Evan Ross. Havlick explains, “It’s a privilege to introduce the world of avalanche safety and snow science to such talented and driven young athletes. I hope this avalanche education weekend is a springboard to years of safe backcountry ripping through patience and conservative decision making while pursuing steep lines around the globe.”
Getting their learn on… on a Saturday!
This weekend, a CBMST crew is headed to Snowbird to compete at the Junior Freeskiing Nationals. The crew consists of Brittany Barefield, Josie Byron, Patrick Curvin, Matt Evans, and coach Will Dujardin. “We’re definitely excited to kick off the season,” exclaims Matt Evans, who is in his final year on the team. “Stoked to hit it hard again.” Check back for updates and highlights from this weekend’s competition.
Huge props to Crested Butte Mountain Guides for providing this low cost intro to avalanche education for the kids. Visit their website at http://www.crestedbutteguides.com. Also, thank you to the CB Snowsports Foundation for organizing the course.
