Pass ski hill attracting novices at special event

The Pass Powderkeg Ski Society is sliding into February with an event everyone can get involved with to enjoy the long winter months.

In hopes to elevate their attendance during the open season, create an easy opportunity for beginners to get involved with a favourite Canadian pastime and join the national movement hosted by the Canadian Ski Council, the Pass Ski Society in Crowsnest Pass is hosting its Never Ever Days this Feb. 24-25.

“When people think about skiing and snowboarding there are significant barriers into entry that stand in the way. You have to figure out equipment, how to dress and how much it will cost,” says Joey O’Brien, manager of Community Services.

“So, when you have a marketing plan like Never Ever Days that’s a national promotion it helps reduce some of the barriers to entry and allows people to get the full experience of a day on the hill.”

Never Ever Days dedicate several days out of the year to first-time or novice skiers to create an all-inclusive experience to get them on the hill, enjoying the crisp mountain air and making tracks down the snow as they experience the thrill of winter sports. From skiing to snowboarding, these days offer a package to participants that allows them rental equipment, a lift ticket and a lesson in their sport of choosing, for $25.

With more than 80 ski areas across the country taking part in offering these full-day experiences to everyone eager to learn, the Crowsnest Pass is just one location in southern Alberta that’s excited to offer its services and put the local ski hill on the map as a community location perfect for all skill levels.

“What’s really interesting is that only 18.2 per cent of people who try skiing for the first time stay with it. The industry is rife with people who think it saves money by getting family or friends to teach them rather than a professional,” says O’Brien. Tthe Pass Powderkeg Ski Society has been a staple skiing spot since 1938.