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Alysa Liu Withdraws From 2026 World Figure Skating Championships

The Daily Desk — Mon, 09 Mar 2026 00:43:09 +0000

Olympic champion Alysa Liu has withdrawn from the upcoming World Figure Skating Championships, scheduled to begin March 24 at O2 Arena. The 20-year-old American, who recently captured Olympic gold at the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo, will skip the event following a demanding Olympic season. Her absence opens a spot on the U.S. team for Sarah Everhardt.

Event Summary

Liu was expected to compete alongside fellow American skaters Amber Glenn and Isabeau Levito when the world championships begin in Prague later this month.

Bradie Tennell had initially been named the first alternate but declined the invitation, leading U.S. Figure Skating to add Everhardt to the roster.

Liu entered the event as the defending world champion after winning the title in Boston last year. That victory made her the first American woman to claim the world title since Kimmie Meissner in 2006.

Statistical & Career Context

Liu’s withdrawal comes shortly after one of the most successful stretches of her career. At the 2026 Winter Olympics, she delivered the United States’ first women’s Olympic figure skating gold medal since Sarah Hughes won the event in 2002.

She also earned a second gold medal in the Olympic team competition, helping the United States defend its title alongside teammates including Glenn.

The 20-year-old’s career path has been unconventional. Liu initially retired following the 2022 Winter Olympics in Beijing, citing burnout after years of elite competition. She returned to the sport two years later and quickly re-established herself among the world’s top skaters.

Athlete Profile and Impact

Beyond competitive success, Liu has gained attention for her distinctive personality and style within the sport. Her unconventional aesthetic — including a streaked haircut and facial piercing — contrasts with the traditional image historically associated with women’s figure skating.

Observers have noted that her more relaxed approach since returning to competition has coincided with some of the strongest performances of her career.

Standings & Competition Implications

Liu’s absence reshapes the women’s field in Prague. Glenn and Levito remain the primary U.S. contenders, while Everhardt gains an opportunity to compete at her first senior world championships.

The world championships will also proceed without several other prominent athletes. Olympic pairs champions Riku Miura and Ryuichi Kihara of Japan have withdrawn, as have Italy’s Sara Conti and Niccolò Macii.

Belgium’s Loena Hendrickx also opted out following an injury-affected season that culminated in a 14th-place Olympic finish.

Skipping the world championships after the Olympics is a common decision among elite skaters. The competitive calendar begins in early autumn, and many athletes end their seasons following the intense Olympic schedule.

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Twin Milan and Cortina Olympic Cauldrons Extinguished as Winter Games Close in Verona

The Daily Desk — Mon, 23 Feb 2026 03:19:13 +0000

VERONA, Italy (Journos News) – The Milan Cortina Olympic cauldrons were extinguished on Sunday night, drawing the curtain on Italy’s widely dispersed 2026 Winter Games with a ceremony inside the ancient Arena in Verona. The twin flames — lit separately in Milan and Cortina d’Ampezzo — went dark simultaneously via video link, marking the formal end of what organizers described as the most geographically spread-out Winter Olympics to date.

Held over 17 days across mountain valleys, alpine towns and urban arenas, the Games combined historic venues with a decentralized model that Olympic officials say could influence future editions. The closing ceremony sought to reflect that blend of heritage and modernity, pairing operatic tributes with contemporary Italian pop and dance music.

Declaring the Games closed, International Olympic Committee President Kirsty Coventry praised the local organizing committee for delivering “a new kind of winter games” and setting a “very high standard for the future.” It was the first Winter Olympics overseen by Coventry in her role as IOC president.

A ceremony rooted in Italian culture

Staged inside the Roman-era Verona Arena, roughly midway between the various competition clusters, the 2½-hour ceremony leaned heavily into Italy’s artistic traditions. The production opened with a theatrical nod to lyric opera, long associated with the Arena’s summer festival, before transitioning into modern performances.

Characters from operas such as La Traviata, Aida and Rigoletto were theatrically “unpacked” from mirrored crates placed around the amphitheater. Seventeenth-century musicians performed “Libiamo ne’ lieti calici,” while costumed figures moved from the stage into the piazza outside, mingling with athletes carrying national flags.

Later segments featured ballet dancer Roberto Bolle in an aerial performance staged within a ring of light symbolizing the sun. He descended onto a set designed to resemble the Venetian lagoon, complete with gondolas, dancing to music by Italian singer Joan Thiele. The program culminated with DJ Gabry Ponte energizing athletes in the arena, followed by a final performance from Achille Lauro, who closed the night with the song “Incoscienti Giovani.”

Approximately 12,000 spectators attended the ceremony — a smaller gathering than the opening event in Milan’s San Siro stadium, which drew more than 60,000.

Record medal haul for Italy

A total of 116 medal events were contested across eight sports and 16 disciplines, including the Olympic debut of ski mountaineering. The final medals — in the 50-kilometer mass start cross-country skiing races — were awarded just hours before the closing event.

Host nation Italy achieved its strongest Winter Olympic performance, collecting 30 medals: 10 gold, six silver and 14 bronze. The tally surpassed its previous record of 20 medals set at the 1994 Lillehammer Games.

Giovanni Malagò, president of the Milan Cortina Foundation, credited Italian athletes with uniting the country and contributing significantly to the Games’ overall success. Many of the medalists were present in the arena, wearing white headbands emblazoned with “Italia.”

The Olympic flame, encased in a Venetian glass vessel, was carried into the Arena by Italian gold medalists from the 1994 Lillehammer Winter Games. Illuminated Olympic rings appeared on the stone steps behind the stage as the flame was raised in the center of the amphitheater.

A new geographic model

The Italy-hosted Games spanned approximately 22,000 square kilometers (8,500 square miles), stretching from ice events in Milan to alpine skiing and snowboarding in Valtellina near the Swiss border, biathlon in Anterselva near Austria, and cross-country skiing in Val di Fiemme north of Verona. Sliding sports, curling and women’s downhill competitions took place in Cortina d’Ampezzo.

Organizers had argued that the decentralized format would reduce the need for new construction by relying largely on existing facilities. While that approach posed logistical challenges, IOC officials suggested it may serve as a template for future Winter Games in regions with established winter sports infrastructure.

Following tradition, the Olympic flag was handed to representatives of France, which will host the next Winter Games in 2030. French organizers plan to stage events across Alpine venues and the Mediterranean city of Nice, maintaining a similarly distributed structure. Speedskating is expected to be held either in Italy or the Netherlands, according to organizers.

Paralympics to follow in Verona

The Verona Arena will again serve as the ceremonial focal point when it hosts the opening of the Milan Cortina Paralympic Winter Games on March 6. The Paralympics will run through March 15, using many of the same competition sites.

The extinguishing of the Milan Cortina Olympic cauldrons — an unprecedented dual arrangement — was accompanied by a light show rather than fireworks, in line with local restrictions intended to avoid disturbing animals in and around Verona.

As the lights dimmed and athletes filed out, the ceremony underscored both the scale and the experimentation of Italy’s Winter Olympics. Whether the spread-out model becomes a long-term blueprint for the Olympic movement may depend on future hosts, but for now, the 2026 edition closes as a chapter that combined tradition, geography and adaptation in equal measure.

Source: AP News – Twin Milan and Cortina Olympic cauldrons are extinguished, signaling the end of Winter Games

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Dog Makes Unexpected Appearance During Milan-Cortina Olympic Cross-Country Event

The Daily Desk — Thu, 19 Feb 2026 00:18:11 +0000

TESERO, Italy (Journos News) – At the Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics on Wednesday, a four-legged visitor stole the spotlight during the women’s cross-country team sprint heats. As elite athletes raced toward the finish, a dog wandered onto the course, running alongside competitors down the straightaway.

The unexpected visitor did not disrupt the skiers, who maintained their pace while spectators cheered. Venue officials quickly intervened once the dog crossed the finish line. Organizers later confirmed that the animal had escaped from a nearby owner during a routine walk.

The incident occurred on a day already marked by Olympic history. On the same course, Norwegian skier Johannes Hoesflot Klaebo secured his record 10th Olympic gold medal and his fifth of the Milan-Cortina Games, adding another milestone to his decorated career.

Cross-Country Racing Continues Despite Canine Distraction

Spectators cheer as a dog briefly joins the women’s Olympic team sprint – Olympic Broadcasting Services via AP

The dog’s brief cameo highlighted the unpredictable nature of outdoor winter sports, where even carefully secured courses can encounter unplanned interruptions. Officials emphasized that safety measures remained in place and that no athletes were harmed or impeded.

Fan Reactions and Lighthearted Moment

Spectators captured the playful interruption on social media, with many praising the skiers’ composure. While the dog’s dash across the finish line added levity to the competition, organizers reaffirmed the importance of course security for the remainder of the Games.

The Milan-Cortina Olympics continue to showcase both athletic excellence and memorable, unscripted moments that remind fans of the lighter side of sport.

Source: AP News – Loose dog makes Olympic cameo on the cross-country ski course at the Milan Cortina Games

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Zen the Border Collie Saves Lives in Italy’s Avalanche-Prone Dolomites

The Daily Desk — Mon, 07 Apr 2025 10:54:32 +0000

Zen the Border Collie: Teaching Other Dogs to Save Lives in Italy’s Avalanche-Prone Dolomites

In the heart of the breathtaking Dolomites, a region known for its jagged peaks and scenic beauty, Zen, a 5-year-old Border Collie, is on a mission — one that could save lives. Zen is not your typical dog. As part of a growing team of avalanche rescue dogs in Italy, Zen plays a pivotal role in locating people buried under snow, helping save lives in one of the world’s most avalanche-prone regions.

On a snowy day above the chic ski resort town of Cortina d’Ampezzo, Zen demonstrates his skills to a group of 20 other dogs in training for avalanche rescue. The air is crisp, the mountains stand tall, and Zen’s swift movements around a snow mound signal to his handler that he’s picked up a scent — someone is buried deep below.

This isn’t just a training exercise; Zen, who has been a rescue dog for three years, is showing others how it’s done. His work is part of an essential effort to train rescue dogs in the Dolomites, an area where avalanches have been claiming more victims in recent years. The number of people caught in avalanches has increased by a staggering 50% over the past 25 years.

As climate change causes heavier, wetter snow to become more common, the risks of avalanches have grown. This kind of snow is especially dangerous for those who are trapped, as it compresses the air pockets that could otherwise allow a victim to breathe. In this environment, trained avalanche rescue dogs are often the first and best chance of survival.

According to Adriano Favre, who runs the canine training camps in Cortina, the ability of a trained dog’s nose to locate buried victims is more accurate than any transponder. They can find people trapped in snow in a way that human rescuers just can’t — making their role in life-saving operations absolutely critical.

Zen’s job is clear: after catching the scent, he finds the “victim,” a volunteer buried in the snow for the exercise. Zen pulls up a rope tug toy, signaling success. His handler, Paolo Sbisa, praises him with a well-earned pat. But this bond between dog and handler is more than just love — it’s vital for their work. As Sbisa says, “Our dogs need to have an intense relationship with the handler. If not, we can’t read what he is trying to tell us.” That connection is the foundation of their life-saving work.

However, not all of Zen’s missions are training exercises. Just days earlier, Zen was part of a real-life rescue on Giau Pass, where a deadly avalanche buried three backcountry skiers.

Zen’s role was vital in this actual rescue. While two of the victims were found using transponders, Zen’s sharp nose was key to locating the third skier, a woman buried 12 feet deep under snow. Unfortunately, despite the efforts, both she and another skier passed away. This tragic outcome underscores a critical truth in avalanche rescues: if a dog is called in, survival is often unlikely.

Rescuers like Sbisa emphasize the importance of having the right safety gear — transponders, probes, and shovels — as the first line of defense. In many cases, self-rescue by those who are with the victim can be the difference between life and death. Dogs, unfortunately, often locate bodies rather than survivors.

The rise in avalanche-related incidents in Italy is alarming. According to the AINEVA snow and avalanche monitoring service, avalanches requiring rescues have doubled since the year 2000, from about 30 to 60 incidents annually. The number of people caught in avalanches has also surged from 65 to 110 each year.

The first 15 minutes after being buried are critical for survival, according to Igor Chiambretti, technical chief of AINEVA. If a person isn’t found within 35 minutes, their chances of survival drop drastically. But rescue efforts are hampered by delays — it takes 15 to 20 minutes for rescuers to reach avalanche sites, and bad weather can stretch this window even further.

There’s hope, however. The introduction of avalanche dogs at ski areas could reduce this response time to just five minutes, potentially saving more lives.

What’s making matters worse is climate change. As warmer temperatures and moisture-laden air create conditions for heavier snowfalls, the risk of avalanches has intensified. Wet snow with higher water content, once a springtime phenomenon, is now common as early as December. This snow is denser and more dangerous, especially in areas like the Italian Alps, where avalanche survival is becoming increasingly difficult.

Gianni Marigo, a climatologist with AINEVA, points out that the Italian Alps are a “hot spot within a hot spot” for climate change, where warming is happening at an accelerated rate. The combination of less snow overall and more dangerous snow conditions has created a perilous situation for both hikers and rescuers.

In a rare and miraculous turn of events, Roberto Ferrino, a backcountry skier, was buried under an avalanche in the northwestern Piedmont Alps for over four hours. By the time he was found, he was well beyond the average survival window. Despite the odds, Ferrino survived, thanks to a lucky air pocket that allowed him to breathe.

While Ferrino doesn’t regret venturing out, he admits that his lack of caution, particularly in choosing a steep slope, was a mistake. His story serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of backcountry skiing — and the vital importance of being prepared.

Zen the Border Collie, along with many other trained avalanche dogs, plays an irreplaceable role in saving lives in Italy’s avalanche-prone mountains. As climate change and more frequent avalanches pose increasing threats, these incredible animals are on the front lines, showing us that sometimes, the difference between life and death is a dog’s nose and a deep bond with its handler.

Source: AP News – Zen the Border collie teaches other dogs how to rescue people in Italy’s avalanche-prone Dolomites

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Ski Jumping Scandal: Norway’s Olympic Champions Suspended Over Cheating

The Daily Desk — Thu, 13 Mar 2025 06:36:42 +0000

Cheating Scandal Rocks Ski Jumping: Olympic Champions Suspended, Norway’s Reputation in Question

A Shocking Scandal in Ski Jumping

Ski jumping has been hit by a major cheating scandal, shaking the sport’s integrity and tarnishing Norway’s reputation for fair play. Team officials were caught manipulating ski suits, leading to the suspension of two Olympic gold medalists, Marius Lindvik and Johann André Forfang. The scandal, which surfaced during the Nordic World Championships, has drawn comparisons to infamous sports controversies such as sign-stealing in baseball and match-fixing in soccer.

What Happened?

Norway’s national team dominated the Nordic World Championships, but behind the scenes, officials had altered ski suits to improve aerodynamics and give their athletes an unfair advantage.
Footage secretly recorded and leaked by a whistleblower exposed the illegal modifications, leading to an investigation by the International Ski and Snowboard Federation (FIS).
Upon review, FIS discovered tampered seams in the crotch area of Norwegian ski suits, confirming the cheating allegations.

Suspensions and Admissions of Guilt

Marius Lindvik and Johann André Forfang denied any involvement but were suspended on Wednesday and placed under official investigation.
Head coach Magnus Brevig and equipment manager Adrian Livelten admitted to their roles in the scandal and were removed from their positions.
Assistant coach Thomas Lobben is also under investigation, and all Norwegian ski suits from the championships have been confiscated for further examination.

How Did Norway Cheat?

Suit Manipulation: Team officials secretly modified pre-approved ski suits by adding extra material to increase their surface area, improving aerodynamics and extending flight time.
Microchip Tampering: RFID chips, which are attached to each ski suit for tracking, were manipulated to prevent detection of the alterations.
Tactical Advantage: FIS rules indicate that even a 5% increase in surface area can significantly improve a jumper’s distance, though the exact impact of Norway’s modifications remains uncertain.

Global Reaction and Norway’s Tarnished Reputation

Norway, a country known for its leadership in human rights, transparency, and sportsmanship, is now at the center of an integrity crisis. This is especially damaging as Norway previously led efforts to exclude Russian athletes from international competitions over ethical concerns.

FIS Secretary General Michel Vion vowed a thorough investigation to ensure ski jumping remains free from manipulation.
FIS Race Director Sandro Pertile described Norway’s cheating as “by far the worst” he has seen in five years, stating, “This action killed our principles, our style, our joy for the discipline.”
Several nations, including Austria, Slovenia, and Poland, formally protested Norway’s actions.

Ongoing Investigation and Potential Consequences

FIS has seized all Norwegian ski suits used in both men’s and women’s ski jumping at the championships.
Lindvik’s normal hill gold medal is under review, raising questions about whether past victories, including his 2022 Olympic title, should also be investigated.
The Ski Jumping World Cup resumes this week in Oslo, but Norway’s top athletes won’t be competing.

This scandal has cast a dark shadow over Norway’s dominance in ski jumping. While athletes claim they were unaware of the cheating, the involvement of top officials raises concerns about a broader culture of rule-breaking. As the investigation unfolds, the ski jumping world watches closely, waiting to see how FIS will respond to one of the sport’s biggest controversies.

Source

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Niseko: The Snow Paradise of Asia and Beyond

The Daily Desk — Wed, 12 Mar 2025 14:40:36 +0000

How Niseko Became the Powder Capital of Asia – and Maybe Even the World

The Ultimate Powder Paradise

I find myself deep in the trees, thigh-deep in powder, struggling through the snow. Instead of riding my board, I’m carrying it, muttering about taking the wrong line. Meanwhile, just 20 feet below, Chris Laurent from Paris has his own dilemma.

“I can’t find my ski,” he exclaims, both laughing and swearing as he digs through a growing mound of fresh snow.

These are the challenges that skiers and snowboarders dream of—and pay to experience.

Welcome to Niseko, the powder capital of Asia, and some say, the world.

Japan has long been revered as a mecca for powder skiing. However, in recent years, warming winters, declining snowfall, and a shrinking number of local skiers and snowboarders have threatened its once-thriving resorts.

But this season brought renewed excitement. With the La Niña weather pattern—a period of cooler temperatures—returning, industry insiders anticipated massive snowfalls reminiscent of Niseko’s legendary past. Their hopes were justified. Early in the season, Niseko shattered a 68-year-old record for December snowfall.

After a brief lull in January, February saw an influx of Siberian cold fronts sweeping across the Sea of Japan, dumping fresh powder on Hokkaido’s most famous ski town.

Jia-Rong Chen, a former tech employee from Tokyo, came to Niseko for the season and experienced the town’s signature snowfall firsthand.

“It snows a lot—truly the best quality snow in Japan. Early in the season, I went up every day. But by mid-season, I was almost spoiled. I’d had enough powder already,” he admits.

While snowfall may fluctuate throughout the season, Niseko remains consistent compared to other resorts. Even as Japan’s aging population and declining ski culture have led to hundreds of resort closures, Niseko continues to thrive.

Unlike other struggling resorts, Niseko has seen a surge in foreign visitors and luxury developments. High-end hotels like Setsu Niseko—winner of the World’s Best New Ski Hotel at the 2023 World Ski Awards—and Muwa Niseko are setting new standards for hospitality. Michelin-starred Japanese chefs are also investing in the region, ensuring that Niseko remains not just a ski town but a high-end winter destination.

A key factor behind the area’s snow reliability is the local belief that Mount Yotei—a towering peak resembling Mount Fuji—is a “snow catcher,” ensuring consistent snowfall. Climatologists agree that Niseko’s geography makes it uniquely positioned to receive dry, light powder when Siberian cold fronts collide with the warm moisture of the Sea of Japan.

Despite its consistent snowfall, experts remain cautious about the long-term effects of climate change.

“December temperatures were below normal, but January was abnormally hot. La Niña is rapidly decaying,” says Professor Tomonori Sato, a meteorological researcher from Hokkaido University. “In my hometown of Niigata, the snow is very wet and heavy. But in Hokkaido, it remains dry and light—ideal for skiing.”

Hokkaido’s unique climate, surrounded by water, fuels the weather systems responsible for its legendary powder. While global warming remains a concern, most experts believe Niseko’s appeal will endure.

Before the pandemic, Niseko was often referred to as an “Aussie town,” with Australians making up about 50% of visitors. Today, that figure has dropped to just over 20%, but overall visitor numbers have surged, with more travelers coming from North America, Europe, and beyond.

“The biggest shift for us has been the rise of American visitors,” says Patrick Ohtani, COO of Luxe Nomad, which manages high-end properties across Asia. “In 2017, U.S. visitors accounted for only 619 guest nights. This year, we’ve booked 4,823 nights—an increase of 404%. Revenue from U.S. travelers has jumped by 130%.”

The introduction of the IKON pass, which grants skiers seven days of unrestricted access to Niseko United, has contributed to this growth. More American skiers, even those with access to world-class resorts back home, are now flying halfway around the globe to experience Niseko’s unparalleled powder.

A stroll through Hirafu, Niseko’s most upscale ski village, reveals just how much the town has transformed. Preening influencers snap selfies in luxury snowsuits, while others sip champagne in a Louis Vuitton-designed yurt. Michelin-starred food trucks serve dumplings, while upscale steakhouses charge $170 for premium cuts.

Heli-ski operators cater to affluent thrill-seekers, and luxury concierge services offer everything from private chef’s tables to exclusive snowmobile tours.

Gone are the days when Niseko was simply called the “Vale of the East” or the “St. Moritz of Japan.” Today, it’s a world-class destination in its own right.

“I’ve been in Niseko for 10 years, and I don’t think we’ve ever had a bad snow year,” says Ohtani. “We’re incredibly lucky—Siberian winds pick up moisture, hit a high-pressure system, and the snow just starts falling. Compared to other ski destinations, our altitude plays a major role.”

For now, Niseko remains bulletproof—an evolving, luxury-laden haven for powder seekers from across the globe. And as long as the snow keeps falling, the legend of Niseko will continue to grow.

Source

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Why Uphill Skiing is Gaining Popularity at US Resorts

The Daily Desk — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 06:41:30 +0000

The Rise of Uphill Skiing: Why This Labor-Intensive Trend is Booming at US Resorts

In ski towns across the United States, a new trend is gaining traction — “earning your turns.” This laborious yet rewarding ski practice, which involves ascending mountains without the aid of ski lifts or gondolas, has been gaining popularity among skiers of all levels. What started as a backcountry pursuit is now becoming a mainstream fitness craze in ski resorts across the nation.

What is Uphilling?

“Earning your turns” refers to the act of climbing a mountain under your own power before skiing or snowboarding down. To do this, skiers use specialized gear, including bindings and boots that allow for uphill movement, paired with “skins” — synthetic fabric strips placed on the undersides of skis to provide traction. Some skiers may also hike up with their gear on their backs.

While backcountry skiing and ski mountaineering are the more extreme versions of uphill skiing, a fitness-focused version is now thriving in resort areas, attracting those looking for a good workout and a chance to enjoy fresh tracks before the lifts open for the day.

Uphill Skiing Grows in Popularity

Uphill access at ski resorts has grown significantly in recent years. According to the National Ski Areas Association (NSAA), the number of resorts allowing uphill skiing has nearly tripled over the past decade. In the 2023/24 season, 65% of resorts permitted uphill access in some form, up from just 33% a decade ago.

At some resorts, uphill skiing is allowed only before or after regular operating hours, while others offer access throughout the day. Skiers will often see parallel tracks on the side of the mountain or zig-zagging paths in steeper terrain — all signs of a growing trend.

The Climb and Its Rewards

The concept of uphill skiing is not only about fitness but also about community and camaraderie. In towns like Steamboat Springs, Colorado, where uphill skiing has flourished, locals like Cara Marrs, a dedicated uphiller and dietitian, say it’s become a way to bond with friends.

“It’s huge, really, how much uphilling has grown,” says Marrs, who has lived in Steamboat for 27 years. The resort allows uphill access before 9 a.m. and after 4:30 p.m. daily, with a $39 armband that provides access after completing a safety video and waiver.

“Back in the day, it was more for backcountry skiing. But now people are doing it for fitness,” Marrs explains.

For professional adventure skier Brody Leven, uphilling has become a social activity as much as a fitness challenge. “In the winter, the majority of the way that I and many skiers catch up with our friends is on the skin track, as we call it, which is on the hike up,” says Leven, who is a self-described “entirely human-powered” skier.

Uphill for Fitness and Fun

Uphill skiing, particularly in resort areas, is largely driven by fitness and fun. Skiers like Terrin Abell, a program manager in Breckenridge, Colorado, discovered the joy of uphilling during a full moon ski with friends. “I was hooked from the first time,” Abell says, noting how the sport blends exercise with the thrill of skiing down an empty mountain. “If you go up on a powder day, you’re going to get the most delicious, perfectly groomed first run down.”

Abell now participates in events like the Imperial Challenge in Breckenridge, which involves skiing uphill as part of a spring tradition. “I’ll be in a tutu, I’ll be in a costume. I do these things because I’m in it for the fun,” she says.

Varied Uphill Policies Across Resorts

While many resorts embrace uphilling, policies vary. Some resorts require an additional fee on top of a regular ski pass, while others charge only for a dedicated uphill pass. In places like Aspen Snowmass in Colorado, uphill skiing is permitted at certain hours and with designated routes, offering a more flexible approach.

At Snowbowl in Arizona, uphill access is free but only allowed during specific hours and on designated routes that change with snowmaking, grooming, and weather conditions. In Utah, resorts like Powder Mountain and Alta offer uphill access under varying conditions, with Powder Mountain allowing access during operating hours on designated routes.

Safety and Rules

As with any outdoor activity, safety is paramount. Before heading uphill, skiers should familiarize themselves with resort rules, including designated routes and operational hours. Always yield to downhill skiers and be mindful of grooming and snowmaking equipment. Wearing bright-colored gear enhances visibility, particularly during early morning or evening hours.

While uphilling isn’t for everyone, it offers a unique and rewarding experience for those willing to put in the effort. “The first couple of times, you’re like, ‘Why am I doing this?’” says Abell. “But then the sun comes up, and you get to the top. Then you transition and ski down, and you’re like, ‘Wow, that was the best thing ever.’”

Conclusion

Uphill skiing at US resorts has rapidly evolved from a niche activity for backcountry enthusiasts to a popular fitness trend embraced by a wide range of skiers. Whether for fitness, fun, or a sense of accomplishment, this unique way of enjoying the mountain is here to stay, offering skiers an additional reward for their efforts — fresh tracks and the rush of skiing down before the crowds.

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Swiss Snowboarding Star Sophie Hediger Dies in Tragic Avalanche

The Daily Desk — Wed, 25 Dec 2024 14:55:51 +0000

Swiss Snowboard Cross Olympian Sophie Hediger Dies in Avalanche at 26

Swiss snowboard cross Olympian Sophie Hediger, a rising star in her sport, tragically lost her life in an avalanche in Arosa. The 26-year-old athlete, who had recently celebrated her first World Cup podium finishes, passed away on December 23, as confirmed by the Swiss Ski Federation (Swiss-Ski) on December 24.

A Promising Career Cut Short

Hediger’s talent shone early in her career. She captured a silver medal at the Lillehammer 2016 Winter Youth Olympic Games and went on to represent Switzerland in both individual and mixed team snowboard cross events at the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics.

Her breakthrough came last season on the FIS World Cup circuit, where she achieved two podium finishes. She secured second place at St. Moritz in January and followed it up with a third-place finish in Gudauri, Georgia, just a week later.

A Community in Mourning

Walter Reusser, Swiss-Ski Sport CEO, expressed the deep sorrow felt across the Swiss skiing community:
“We are stunned, and our thoughts are with Sophie’s family, to whom we express our deepest condolences. For the Swiss Ski family, the tragic death of Sophie Hediger has cast a dark shadow over the Christmas holidays.”

Hediger’s untimely passing has left a significant void not only in her sport but also in the hearts of those who knew her.

A Life Rooted in the Mountains

Born and raised in Horgen, near Lake Zurich, Hediger was deeply connected to the mountains that shaped her life and career. She spent much of her time freeriding at the Arosa resort, the site of the tragic avalanche.

The entire snowboarding community remembers Sophie Hediger not just as an exceptional athlete but as a bright and passionate individual whose potential was just beginning to unfold.

Source

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