Most people who go on a skiing holiday do so for the sensation of improving their skills, partaking of the après ski nightlife and generally relaxing. This is not the case for those hardy men and women who ski and snowboard for a profession – so where do they chose to go?
Athletes
Athletes who earn their living from skiing demonstrate a level of skill that can only be envied at by the amateur but there are still similarities between the two groups. They both need to invest in appropriate equipment, for a start, and will both still be at risk of injury. This is why investing in insurance such as Allianz Global Assistance is important as the tougher the winter resort, the more likely it is that accidents can affect the skier.
St Anton, Austria
This is home to the World Cup Circuit and is famous for its steep waterfall shaped slopes. One of the many reasons why this resort is so popular with professional athletes is that it’s got plenty of off piste runs that can prove to be both exhilarating as well as dangerous. Après ski is taken seriously here but the bar is on the slope so you’ll have to still mount your skis to reach the comfort of your hotel.
Whistler, Canada
With a top elevation of 2,285 metres these two mountains should thrill any endurance skiers. The resort also has the Horseman Glacier which is always a temptation for the professional athlete.
Cortina d’Ampezzo, Italy
This beautiful resort is slightly old fashioned but this only adds to its charms. The main reason that it’s so popular with professionals is the Tofana run that is almost vertical so it’s ideal for racing. Apparently speeds of 85mph in 4 seconds have been recorded. The food in the local bars and restaurants is said to be very tasty as well.
Val d’Anniviers, Switzerland
Many professional skiers live in this region as it offers consistently high standard slopes with many different challenges. The area of Zinal is perfect for accommodation and provides access to the local resorts. One of the area’s main charms is the amount of off piste runs in the region.
Copper Mountain, Colorado
This very high mountain, 3,570 metres is one of the main reasons for its popularity with professionals. The other reason is the training camp at Woodward where athletes can practise their new manoeuvres on foam pits and trampolines. The run to try in Copper Mountain is Super Bee, which is very fast, though suitable for intermediates as well as professionals.