Catsuit parade

Méribel is right in the middle of the biggest ski area in the world, that's quite a statement. Advanced skiers are kept happy with the massive choice on offer with pistes, couloirs and accessible off-piste. Intermediate skiers can drown in the overwhelming network of blue and red pistes. And beginners don't even realise how good they have it, with nursery slopes and green pistes, until they visit other ski areas. But it's often forgotten that back in 1992 Méribel part- hosted some of the Winter Olympic games events. With another Winter Olympic games starting this weekend in Canada, let's quickly remember what went ahead here in Méribel. Most of the Ice Hockey games, plus the Alpine Skiing womens speed events finished down at Chaudanne.


The infrastructure is still in use, especially the Olympic race piste. A few days ago we were treated to a FIS Europa Cup mens giant slalom, and slalom. I'm not even going to attempt to describe what all that means, let's just say that some of the world's best ski racers were here before flying over to Canada.


There was a buzz about town; most alpine ski teams were here with their umpteen coaches; flags were flying, and yes the catsuits were super-tight pressed against the ripped athletes !?!


As usual I had spare time this week, so Canon and I sneaked up the Olympic race piste lift to have a poke about and take some photos. The area was strictly closed to the public. So my uniform 'just' allowed me this privilege.


The standard was jaw dropping of course. It was Ski Sunday in the flesh, but it hit home even more. Here is Great Britain's Noel Baxter.


The usual emotions appeared on cue. If only I had started skiing at the age of three instead of eighteen. If only I had the talent of these guys, blahh blahh blahh. Get a grip of yourself Martin, they are some of the world's best. There's no way I'm going to complain, I have the best job in the world after all.


I've had great fun this week in the mornings teaching a bunch of kids from the respected family tour operator, Ski Esprit. I've had seven complete wobbly beginners from the age of five up to nine years old. They've all picked it up really well, and it's great being part of their enjoyment and improvement. Future Olypmic champions, why not.


With the brilliant snow conditions at the moment, I'm really looking forward even more to catching up with the Joneses again next week. Mind you, the temperatures are freezing cold yet again. Good thing the boy racers aren't here anymore, because they would freeze solid in their flimsy catsuits !?!

Martin