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SkiTripTemple
 
Video by Robbie Lange

12 Physical Education Outdoor Education - Skiing and Snowboarding Trips

Chris Leader —

Mt Hutt & Temple Basin

Early August saw the Year 12 outdoor education class go on two skiing and snowboarding trips to gain experience in the snow sports and learn some of the basic skills associated with skiing and snowboarding. As well as this the boys were able to gain some valuable experience in snow safety, national parks and ski fields.

The first trip was on Monday for the Option 1 group of the class for a day trip to Canterbury’s most popular ski destination Mt Hutt. After having to postpone the trip from the previous Thursday due to poor weather, the boys were hoping for some good conditions and at the beginning of the day it was very promising. Once up the mountain the boys were fitted into their boots, skis and boards and put through their paces on the mountain with a ski lesson. After this the boys got some free time, had some lunch and then got the disappointing news that the mountain was shutting due to extreme winds and weather conditions. Some highlights of the day included Tapu Uliano going from an ultra-beginner to somewhat of an expert and Kava Tangifua’s ability to put chains on tyres before we drove up the mountain.

The following day the Option 2 Trip headed across the West Coast Road to the destination of Temple Basin in the Arthurs Pass. After stopping for a famous Sheffield pie, the group charged on through to the foot of Mt Temple and put their equipment on the goods lift where it was transported to base camp at Temple Basin. From here the boys started the treacherous hike up the mountain to the Basin field where they were met by fresh snow, cool temperatures, and a spacious hut. After being set up, put in rooms and eating lunch it was time to hit the field and get some lessons and free time. After a long day skiing and snowboarding the boys then went inside and had dinner and relaxed for the night in anticipation for some more free time on the Wednesday, before walking back down to the vans and heading back to STC. Some key awards came from the trip and they included. Most Improved – Levi Hodgson, Battler of the day – Ben Scarlett, Courage award – Mitchell McKeowen, Mistake of the day – Thomas New and MVP – Joe Dravitzki and Oliver Wilkinson. A huge thank you goes to the Temple Basin crew for looking after all of us and to Mr Allen, Mr Leader and Mr Lange for their organisation and support of the trips.