Roving Rachel

This week I've met some fantastic visitors to Méribel. I've had a couple lessons with Rachel, Alex, Jan and Joe, see photo below. We've looked at the basics of ski technique, ie balance, steering and grip. After a few trips down the Altiport green piste we agreed to venture further afield.


We looked at how the snow conditions can affect our performance, and how our mental state can affect the route that we take down slopes. As much as possible it's nice for me to show different routes around the massive Méribel ski area, especially quieter unknown tracks. At the end of this afternoons session I was chuffed to be able to share this knowledge and take such a track to avoid the late afternoon rush hour. But within a few seconds a shout of 'MARTIN' shot my way.

I quickly looked behind me to see just three skiers instead of four. Panic stations, but hang on, all I could hear was 'Are you OK Rachel?' amongst giggles. As instructors we have gut reactions, and this time it wasn't great.

Where the hell was Rachel? I couldn't see any evidence, no movement, nothing, just debris of ski equipment. However, after 20 seconds or so a large tree trunk swayed, and then Rachel's head popped up, plus further giggles. Joe and Alex got down on their stomachs to reach for Rachel. I reached down as well, but into my bag for my camera sensing a couple of cheeky shots for the blog.

Did I panic, you bet. Did I feel a little guilty, massively. But we all went for a beer down at Jacks bar after skiing. A great story was told by everyone, and further lessons were booked by 'Team Extreme'. So that concluded another great day in the office.

Plenty to look forward to this week. Snow storms and cold temperatures are heading our way. Plus Harriet is finally back out again from England on Thursday to look after me. Happy days.

Martin