Lake Wanaka, New Zealand – Aspiring young big mountain skiers and boarders can learn and compete under the guidance of some of New Zealand’s top freeskiers during the Pump Mini Mountain at Treble Cone ski area near Lake Wanaka next weekend.nThe Pump Mini Mountain is designed to serve as an introduction to big mountain events and as a lead-up to the New Zealand Juniors at the end of the month. The weekend is about learning to safely approach and use the steep terrain to advance enjoyment and competition points.
Day one on Saturday, Sept. 18 is a four-hour class that includes a tour of the competition venue with guidance on choosing the best line, technique and feature tricks the judges are looking for. The Treble Cone freeride coaches will be supported by top freeskiers Geoff Small and Sam Smoothy, who will also judge the event.
The competition day follows next Sunday, Sept. 19, with an inspection of the course in the morning for all athletes and then a two-run big mountain event.
“Treble Cone’s varied terrain is the ideal playground for young skiers and boarders looking to advance their confidence and abilities to the next level. To be mentored by our elite freeskiers and riders provides a great opportunity for the juniors to learn in a safe and fun environment,” says Nigel Kerr, marketing manager at Treble Cone.
The Pump Mini Mountain weekend is aimed at young competent skiers and boarders looking to progress their big mountain skills. The focus is on providing a challenging and rewarding experience, while building confidence to safely ski the big mountain.
Awards will be handed out on the courtyard deck at Treble Cone at 3 p.m. Both days start at 10:30 a.m.
The Pump Big Mountain is offered to children 7-13 years old. The two-day weekend training and competition costs NZ$40, or NZ$30 for just the Sunday competition. Half-price lift passes are available to all participants and one parent/guardian of each competitor. Registration takes place online at www.treblecone.com or contact Treble Cone for an entry form.