Swain, NY - Skiers and snowboarders, if you have ever wanted
to know what it is like to ski or ride with the Ski Patrol, you can have the
chance on Saturday January 4 or Sunday March 1. Swain Ski Patrol is hosting an
open house that includes a free one day lift pass and lunch. Hours are 10 a.m.
to 2 p.m. each day.
Many of the best skiers on the hill belong to the National
Ski Patrol. This esteemed national organization was formed in the 1930s to
provide safety and first aid for the recreational ski industry. The Swain Ski
Patrol is seeking new members. Participation in the open house is by no means
an obligation to join Ski Patrol. It is a chance for skiers and snow boarders
to have a look close up as to what the men and women in the red coats do.
The Ski Patrol keeps the area safe and, when needed,
provides first aid and transport off the hill. Patrollers are trained in skiing
and sled handling as well as professional level first responder skills. The Ski
Patrol makes the first tracks in the snow each morning to assess and report
trail conditions as well as the final sweep at the end of the day, to be sure
nobody is left behind. The enjoyment of being outdoors, engaged in an exciting
sport and the satisfaction and confidence that comes from being well trained
are great personal benefits for the patroller. When asked what they love most
about Ski Patrol, most members will immediately talk about the comradery.
Classes begin in January for the “S & T” (Ski and
Toboggan) portion of the training for new candidates joining the Patrol.
Candidates who attend the first open house and apply for patrol membership may
be eligible to begin training immediately.
Swain Ski and Snowboard Center, in the northern Allegany
County community of Swain, has a summit elevation of nearly 2,000 feet with 35
trails over 120 acres. The vertical drop of 650 feet is served by three quad
chair lifts and a double chair lift. Natural snowfall and artificial snowmaking
on the north facing mountain side has meant that the slopes have been open
since late November, even on many days when warm temperatures meant that no
snow was to be seen in most other places. Recent natural snowfall and
temperatures are making for excellent January snow conditions.
Space is limited for the open house. Participants are asked
to pre-register by emailing membership@swainskipatrol.org or calling membership
coordinator Steve Walker at 607-382-3195. (photos provided).
