But for the grace of god we go...... to Chicopee

March 23rd was a Big night of hills. After we all wrapped family and business commitments, off to chicopee we go. Members Dean, Dietmar, Rich, Dave, John, just can't get enough. Tom is out with shoulder injuries - (ouch).

When you reflect on what makes a team strong it always comes back to commitment. Tonight we surely should be committed.

After ducking police on patrol, narrow bike bridges and lots of green patches we found the motherload. Who said we can't ski? (aside from the authorities). Chicopee sets up for a snow mobile jumping event as we ski - the "carnies are asleep in their trailers".

After numerous climbs to warm up we begin the downhill challenge and boy was it fast and not really controllable for turning. After many styles it was finally the Chinese downhill that took the cup - Dave out in front Diemar and Dean in hot pursuit. John and Rich on the camera. A night to remember Video footage not available in this medium but can be shared. Just e-mail.

The Weather Giveth ... and Takes away

Well those of little faith would say it is over - however the True West Sider would know that "it ain't over 'till its over". Just 2 short years ago Members Rich and John Skiied right through to April 13th. Sounds crazy but I think we could have repeat - at least one April ski if all goes well. Just a round the corner is snow and we are now on high alert - for the next three weeks we will be on a ski - when available schedule - meaning that if there is snow we must go!! So warn the Family - heck bring them along. The Season closer is targeted to be March 31st - but lets see what we can do about that!!

Pray for snow!!!!!!! And in the mean time keep your tips up and don't let the weather get you down!!

Jeff's Update

Good News for West Side Fans following the fate of our Guest Jeff!!! He is on the mend and spirits are high. According to Mr. Donnelly " he is seriously considering his return to the West Side upon his recovery from accident #2". Well I guess there is no stopping you Jeff - three times is a charm!! Jeff - the West Side team wishes you all the best and speedy recovery! You definitely have the right spirit -you just can't keep a good man down.

Sunday Mar 5th

Fast and furious!
Good base, temp -4c.
Controllable. 17 k. What happened to all the fair weather members? Your missing the fair weather. Randy and 5ean who? TPB tripple header to close it at cabana.
members Dave, John, Deitmar, Tom.

Westside goes to Peaks Men's day

click on title above for pictoral
Steep, Fast and full of big air!!
The team met at Peaks to leave our West Side mark on a big event. Full day of fun and high speed cruising. Peaks steep slopes meant lots of speed. Chineese downhills were the order of the day. Dave and John Square off for the Big air. Everyone tries and survives.
Thanks to Ed for the accomodations, John and Little Joe (sorry about the Shoulder Joe! Get well soon) for the tickets, Mike Kelly (why weren't you here?) and all that participated!!!!

Special Mention to Tom who began his stand up comedy act to the stage at Peaks. The evening ended with Dinner at Teds Dinner and wind down session where it usually begins - The cabana!! We all returned home alive and ready for the next back country adventure. - JP

Paricipants Dave, Rich, Tom, Deitmar, John, Ed, Andrew L, Andy Davis, Ted Pimm, Mike Atkinson,

Sunday Feb 25th

Antoher great Night - Dave, John and Tom carve up a storm. Tom takes Blue run and nearly hits Mimi and goes down hard. Another shoulder injury!!! When asked what now? Tom replies take me home!!