This year’s Ski Down in a Gown Event was cancelled due to adverse snow conditions, prompting a shift in the annual competition, this season with a new charitable component.
Undeterred by the recreation cancellation, a 50-strong group gathered for a Glamorous Gown Après at Masa’s March 19, raising $1,180 for Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks (ASSP).
Typically the Ski Down in a Gown gathering turns the Sundance Run into a moving catwalk. Skiers swirl down the slope in sparkling sequined gowns, repurposed wedding dresses, feathered and flowered hats, boas and fur-trimmed capes, transforming the blue run into a sparkly spectacle.
But, this year’s warm temperatures led to a last minute change in plans.
Although there was much disappointment that the skiing segment was cancelled this year, it was a question of safety first, according to organizer Vera Steinberger.
“It’s a shame that Mother Nature brought spring on with such gusto, but our great community still came out for a high fashion get-together and fundraiser. With Sunday’s deep fresh powder turning to deep slush, we thought there was just too high a risk of injury. Although all the skiers are capable of handling these conditions with aplomb, 60 or 70 skiers following in the same track could lead to a tulle mishap.”
At Masa’s the audience of bejewelled and bedazzled ladies and their tuxedo-touting escorts listened to a presentation by Jenny Hawes, training director for ASSP. Suitably gowned in her wedding dress, Hawes said they were hoping to raise $1,000 for a new sit ski seat.
“Adaptive Sports at Sun Peaks was excited to be selected as a beneficiary of this year’s Ski Down in a Gown,” Hawes told SPIN. “The event reflects the community spirit that makes inclusive sport possible.”
Sit skis, she explained, are essential equipment enabling local athletes with physical disabilities to build independence, confidence and progression on snow.
Demand for adaptive lessons, particularly sit-skiing, continues to grow, she added. Volunteer instructors are expanding their training to meet winter demand while also preparing for adaptive mountain biking this summer.
“We are grateful to the organizers and participants for helping extend access to sport, belonging and lifelong confidence,” Hawes added. As well as continuing monetary donations through ASSP’s online portal, the Sun Peaks community can support equipment resale through the Adaptive Consignor Sports program.
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