The Kiwis certainly know how to clear snow in style!
The clip below shows a train charging along from Christchurch to Arthurs Pass earlier this month, with the heavy snowfall taking an absolute battering. National Rail could learn a thing or two from this — somehow I don't see "leaves on the track" causing too many delays after this!
Teton Gravity Research, the Jackson Hole based ski film company, have launched an open source freeskiing project, The Co-Lab, where the next generation of athletes and filmers have the chance to win $100,000.
The collaborative competition gives budding young athletes and film makers the chance to make the most of the great, affordable HD cameras on offer these days — well, that's if they can get one — the latest GoPro appears to be sold out everywhere! The next generation of pros are invited to upload their segments throughout next season to TetonGravity.com, where users can vote for edits. An outside panel of industry experts will then pick the winning entry.
The best and most popular edit will be put together to make a collaborative film, hence the C-Lab name, which TGR will release and the out-and-out winner will walk away with $100,000. This entire concept is a fantastic idea as the competition is open world wide and gives credence to both the riders and film makers.
With those behind the lens set to gain as much as any young guns looking for their first sponsorship deals, the Co-Lab comp could bring us the next Tim & Gendle (Lockdown Projects), Damian Doyle (Standing Sideways) or Dave Benedek (Robot Food).
TGR's Co-Founders Todd Jones & Steve Jones introducing The Co-Lab.
Over the years, Teton Gravity Research have bought us some of the most stunning and innovative ski and snowboard films to hit the market. Jeremy Jones three parter Deeper, Further, Higher is a particular favourite of mine, with part two — Further — set for release this autumn. TGR have worked with camera men from both sides of the Atlantic, including British photographer Dan Milner.
Jeremy Jones' Further trailer.
If you have been fortunate to ski or board this season — lucky you! The snow conditions are still superb in both Europe and America, with plenty more powder to come. It is the time of year where we enter the ski festival season — here are just a few ideas for March & April
Firstly Austria, Mayrhofen from March 26-31 has the superb Altitude festival, if you fancy a bit of comedy on your ski trip with the likes of Jimmy Carr, Ed Byrne, Frankie Boyle, Kevin Bridges & Phil Jupitus on the guest list.
On the Music front for jazz fans in France, from March 18-25 in Avoriaz the Jazz Up Festival is kicking off, with Tigran Hamasyan who won 1st Prize at the Montreux Jazz Festival recently.
Switzerland will offer the Caprices festival in Crans Montana, where amongst the acts performing here are are Charlie Winston, Sean Paul & The Earth Wind & Fire Experience from April 11-14.
These are just a few ideas — there is plenty of choice out there if you fancy a ski trip and want to enjoy a festival at the same time.
This season has surpassed all expectations, so what are you waiting for come and join the party!