Warren Miller’s 63rd movie 'Flow State'

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FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

PUBLISHED BY BLACK DIAMOND 15 Bedford Street, Covent Garden, London WC2E 9HE. Telephone: 020 7240 4071 www.blackdiamond.co.uk Š2012 Black Diamond Films. All rights reserved.

No part of this publication may be used, reproduced, stored in an information retrieval system or transmitted in any manner whatsoever without the express permission of the publishers. This Publication has been produced wholly upon information received from contributors and while the publishers trust their content will be of interest to readers, the accuracy cannot be guaranteed. The publisher cannot accept, and hereby disclaims, any liability for the consequences of inaccuracies, errors, omissions or opinions in such information for publication or otherwise. No representations, whether within the meaning of the Misrepresentation Act 1967 or otherwise, warranties or endorsements of information contained herein are given or intended and full verification of all information must be sought from the respective contributors. The publication of the articles herein does not necessarily imply that the opinions are those of the publishers.

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OUR EDITOR ENTERS HIS OWN STATE OF FLOW

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THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

CHARACTERS: GUY CHAMBERS PIXELS: ALEX WITKOWICZ

“WHAT

makes a life

worth living?” This is the question that Mihaly

Czikszentmihalyi,

the

positive

psychologist and director of the Quality of Life Centre in Clermont USA, has been asking and defining for years. He concludes that money cannot make us happy and it is the lasting satisfaction in activities of heightened focus and immersion such as skiing that creates a notion of a ‘state of flow’.

The hallmark of flow is a feeling of

spontaneous joy or even rapture and it is this feeling that best describes the euphoria of carving on powder packed corduroy or blasting through waist deep champagne powder. It is the feeling of crisp cold air and the bright blue skyline on a surreal white canvas linked to the art of sliding down the side of a mountain with only 20mm between you and at the ground is a ‘state of flow’. It is this total immersion of senses with the completely engaged performance of skiing or boarding that is the essence of Warren Miller’s ‘Flow State’.

Black Diamond and Warren Miller Entertainment bring you the 63rd film from Warren Miller and the spontaneous joy of ‘Flow State’. The annual ignition to the ski season is brought to you by host Jonny Moseley and other world class athletes such as Colby West, Jess McMillan and David Wise as they throw down some of the most impressive action the Warren Miller film crews have ever captured.

The ‘Flow State’ session guides you to

the top of the world’s most striking peaks including Japan, Norway, Austria and beyond, Olympic gold medallist Ted Ligety takes on Alaska’s mighty Chugach and Julian Carr bombs down Utah’s famed Wasatch capital. With super slow motion, HD quality and a pulsating soundtrack this will guarantee to put you in a “state of flow” so make sure you are prepared and as Warren would say: “If you don’t go this year you will be one year older when you do.”

EDITOR GUY CHAMBERS DESIGNER

CRAIG JOHNSON

ADVERT MANAGER SIOBHAN BURKE TOUR DIRECTOR

JIM ODOIRE

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CINEMA ON STEROIDS THE WARREN MILLER TOUR DIRECTOR TELLS YOU WHAT TO EXPECT

8 IS THIS PAGE

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

CHARACTERS: JIM ODOIRE PIXELS: MARCUS CASTON

IF

you are reading this, the chances are that you

are sitting in a seat at one of the 30 or so cinemas that the Warren Miller ‘Flow State’ ski and snowboard film tour is visiting around the UK in 2012, waiting for the start of the film. If this is the case, you will have also received a free ski lock courtesy of the tour’s lead sponsor Nissan Navara and a mystery red envelope with ‘Do not open until the interval’ on it Let’s see if you can do as you are told...

In just a few minutes the lights will dim, the film

will start and your winter season will ignite with 90 minutes of big screen skiing and snowboarding action that features the world’s best winter sports athletes in the world’s most exotic mountain locations. Warren Miller’s film crews have travelled the globe from Alaska to Austria and from Squaw Valley to Svalbard searching for perfect winter conditions and the best skiing action. Flow State will bring you the steepest spines, the deepest powder, the newest freestyle tricks and the biggest cliff drops - all mixed in with a smattering of humour, some historical interest and a killer soundtrack thrown in for good measure

As any Warren Miller fan knows, a visit to a

Warren Miller film tour show is so much more than a ‘normal’ trip to the cinema. Along with the goodies you got on entry there is also a prize draw during the film’s natural interval every night.

So when the lights go up, make sure

you stay firmly put as our compere makes a number of ticket holders lucky winners of the skiing and boarding schwag that has been kindly donated by all of the tours’ sponsors Nissan Navara, Ski Lake Tahoe, Mizuno, K2 skis, The Independent, Virgin Holidays and Ski Club of Great Britain.

Even if you don’t win, don’t despair!

You’ve got the second half of the film to enjoy and everyone can get up to 45% off SkiSet ski hire at any of their 800 ski shops around the Alps and North America and a not-to-be-missed offer to join the Ski Club and receive an Osprey rucksack, just check out the back of your prize draw stub for details. And as if that’s not enough, at the end of the tour every ticket is put into a draw to win a brand new Nissan Navara or a fantastic ski holiday of a lifetime to Lake Tahoe, California.

I hope you enjoy the film, make sure

you stop by on your way out and grab a tour t-shirt or DVD of last year’s film ‘Like There’s No Tomorrow’ and pray for snow.

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FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

T H I S Y E A R ’ S WA R R E N M I L L E R M O V IE IS FLOW STATE

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y E A R ’ S WA R R E N M I L L E R M O V I E

SEQUENCE NOTES

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FLOW STATE, SCENE BY SCENE

THIS Y E A R’S WA RRE N M ILLE R M OV IE IS FLOW STATE

FLOW STATE IS THIS Y E A R’S WA RRE N M ILLE R M OV IE

TEN THINGS TO DO

CHARACTERS: WARREN MILLER ENTERTAINMENT BIG PIXELS: ALEX WITKOWICZ (Utah) SMALL PIXELS: BRADEN GUNEM (Colorado) / GLEN CLAYDON (Japan) / JEFF ENGERBRETSON (Alaska)

ASPEN CONTINUES TO INSPIRE THE SNOW-LOVER, CHRIS DAVENPORT

CHUGACH POWDER GUIDES, ALASKA ATHLETES: Ted Ligety, Marcus Caston, Phil Meier EQUIPMENT: Skis, Helicopter Olympic Gold Medalist Ted Ligety and racer-turned-freeskier Marcus Caston take the lead from Swiss freeskier Phil Meier and learn how to approach the backcountry as they’re set loose in 1,663,267 square miles of pure Alaskan wilderness. The Chugach Range averages 600 inches of snowfall per year that covers countless powder walls, averaging 3,000 - 4,000ft in vertical expanse. After a handful of ragdoll wipeouts and stomach-churning crashes, Ligety and Caston learn two valuable lessons: One, Alaskan heli-skiing is not for the meek; and two, conquering your fear is the greatest reward of all.

NISEKO, JAPAN ATHLETES: Tyler Ceccanti, Roman Rohrmoser, Tatsuya Tayagaki EQUIPMENT: Skis Miles away from Tokyo’s bright lights and high-tech populace lays Japan’s finest mountain destination, Niseko. While most of the globe was in a serious drought last winter, Niseko was constantly shoveling. At least that’s how Tyler Ceccanti, Roman Rohrmoser and Tatsuya Tayagaki make it seem. Although they come from different cultures and different sides of the globe, a deep love for powder snow unites these skiing superstars.

CHARACTERS: CHRIS DAVENPORT

NORTHSTAR, CALIFORNIA ATHLETES: Toby Miller, Aspen Spora, Billy Mann, David Wise, Eero Ettala, Elena Hight, Austin Simonpietri EQUIPMENT: Skis, Snowboards

ASPEN

Eleven-year-olds Aspen Spora and Toby Miller don’t build snowmen or play video games during the winter; they huck cliffs and throw big air in the park. While Aspen proves he can hold his own in the powder, the park is where he really shines.

Even with an obvious height disadvantage, he gives David Wise a run for his money when they hit the Superpipe. After only a few minutes of watching Aspen land tricks in the park, it’s easy to see how much he loves the sport. “I would have no life

produces some of the

most world-renowned skiers, like Chris

without skiing,” he admits. “My life would be school, ping-pong and eating.” It’s a good thing he put on a pair of skis at such

Davenport. Spend a day in the life of an elite

a young age because we agree: “Skiing is much better than school.”

local like Dav and explore some of his favorite

C O N T I N U E S

spots in Aspen/Snowmass.

1. Best Expert Terrain - Looking for some great steeps and stashes? Check out some of North America’s only inbounds hike-to terrain at Aspen Highlands. In the words of Dav, “The Highlands Bowl takes this (category) by a British mile!”

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NEW STUFF FROM EllIS BRIGHAM

BIG PIXELS: PETER MATHIS

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CHARACTERS: VINCE SHULEY PIXELS: JUSTA JESKOVA

IN

Avalanche Airbag System, the industry’s most trusted technology for preventing burial in an avalanche. When activated by the user the ABS system utilises compressed CO2 to inflate two integrated, 85 litre airbags that keep the user on the surface of the avalanche and speed up rescue due to their visibility.

going to provide them with a world class guest experience. Above all, they want snow. And lots of it.

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K2 BRIGHTSIDE SKIS £385 (SKI ONlY) A new addition to K2’s range of back-country skis, these perform well on and off piste.

Voted top by our team of testers.

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a world of turbulent weather and an even more turbulent economy, vacationing

skiers and snowboarders are less willing to take chances. They want a resort that they can get to quickly from an international airport, and they want a resort that’s

WHEN YOUR VACATION IS A SNOWFALL GAMBLE IT’S BEST TO BACK THE FAVOURITE: WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

NORTH FACE PATROl 24 ABS PACK £749.99 Features the innovative ABS

C O N T I N U E S

BRIGHT AND SHINY

lOFOTEN GTX PRO JACKET £459.99 The defining big mountain, all-weather ski jacket. The iconic Lofoten is engineered in 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro stretch ripstop waterproof/breathable fabric with laminated seams and 8mm GORE-TEX micro taping. Sizes: S – XL

DAKINE ZONE JACKET £320 New outerwear collection from the respected luggage and accessory brand. Products have a technical freeride and backcountry slant for the savvy older customer looking for the next cool brand.

lOFOTEN GTX PRO PANTS £399.99

MONS ROYAl BOYFRIEND lONG SlEEvE £69.99

BRIGHT AND SHINY

THIS Y E A R’S WA RRE N M ILLE R M OV IE IS FLOW STATE

FLOW STATE IS THIS Y E A R’S WA RRE N M ILLE R M OV IE

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y E A R ’ S WA R R E N M I L L E R M O V I E

This cult backcountry workhorse continues to lead the way in performance ski pants design . Amazing semi-relaxed engineered fit in durable 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro fabric. Sizes: S – XL

Uber cool merino wool brand offering stylish underwear and baselayers that are perfect up the mountain or on the city streets. Started in 2009 in lake Wanaka in New Zealand, they already have a loyal following and are exclusive to Snow+Rock in the UK

NEW STUFF FROM SNOW+ROCK

BIG PIXELS: PETER MATHIS

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FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y E A R ’ S WA R R E N M I L L E R M O V I E

A PERSONAL VIEW OF LAKE TAHOE

GET MORE OUT OF THE MOUNTAIN

CHARACTERS: JENN GLECKMAN PIXELS: COREY RICH/

HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT

I’VE

called Lake Tahoe home

now for over twelve years. Before then, I lived in some pretty cool places, including the French Alps. When asked why I call

THE SKI CLUB OF GREAT BRITAIN HAS A NEW PRESIDENT AND SOME NEW GETAWAYS

this place home, or why I continue to live here, my answer is simple. It’s because I love living here.

Put simply, Lake Tahoe is gorgeous. An enormous alpine lake, the largest in North America.

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PIXELS: ROSSWOODHALL.COM

THE

Ski Club is the biggest snowsports club in the UK

for good reason, with a flourishing community of skiers and snowboarders. With new president Frank Gardner on board the Club continues to drive and inspire people to ski while adding more and more value for its members. Frank Gardner is the BBC’s award-winning security correspondent reporting for TV, radio and online programmes. He’s enjoyed skiing down some of the world’s more unusual slopes in Iran, Lebanon and Transylvania.

C O N T I N U E S

ONE LOCAL’S PERSPECTIVE

THIS Y E A R’S WA RRE N M ILLE R M OV IE IS FLOW STATE

FLOW STATE IS THIS Y E A R’S WA RRE N M ILLE R M OV IE

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T H I S Y E A R ’ S WA R R E N M I L L E R M O V IE IS FLOW STATE

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y E A R ’ S WA R R E N M I L L E R M O V I E

OUT TO THE LAST FRONTIER

9:12AM

CHARACTERS: tobias c. van Veen PIXELS: DAVE SILVER

Jetset anticipation.

The roar of the jet engines wake me from slumber as we whip high and fast through white cirrus. Below me stretches the Coast Range. The inside passage, once sailed by Captain James Cook, stretches into the distance off to the west, while the wild mountains of British Columbia dominate the east. The orange glow of a morning sun refracts a thousand shards of light from glaciers far below. I keep the sunglasses on. All I can see out the hazy window are first descents.

10:33am. Windblown to Smithereens.

Smithers airport is a patch of icy tarmac. I glance around and recognise a few skiers with their racoon-eyes; suspicions are confirmed as the two-metre bags clank through the carousel. Soon, we are shaking hands: there’s Jaime, a guide with Last Frontier, all nimble smiles, and a handful of European guests, zoned if not zonked from the timewarp across the Atlantic to this far Canadian outpost, and yet visibly excited as we step outside into the cool air and spy, in the distance, the massive mountains that surround us. Without further ado, our luxury coach arrives. The next few hours pass in conversation, sleep, and Scrabble as Jaime fills us in on the terrain. It’s huge, he says - bigger then anything we’ve ever seen. We devour fresh sandwiches as the coach rattles over a well-worn

MEMORIES BURNED INTO MUSCLE FROM AN INDELIBLE POWDER JOURNEY, MARCH 2012

road dwarfed by four metre snowbanks. The Stewart-Cassiar appears to lead into the middle of absolute nowhere.

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FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y E A R ’ S WA R R E N M I L L E R M O V I E

SKI WAXING, WHY BOTHER?

CHARACTERS: DOUGIE CRAWFORD BIG PIXELS: PETER MATHIS

AS

a ski racer tuning and waxing skis is just part of my daily routine, you

just always do your skis for the next day. The top 3 in World Championships

MAINTAINING YOUR OWN SKIS IS NOT DIFFICULT

have been separated by 0.01 seconds! So it is not a case of every second counts; it is every hundredth! When I’m training and racing I often spend hours a day in the ski room, sharpening edges, waxing, scraping and brushing to make my skis run faster and grip better on the snow. Skiers from other countries are able to employ an expert wax technician but due to budgets, I have to do all this myself.

Consequently when I was asked why bother for recreational skiing I was a bit taken aback - stunned in fact.

The answer is simple, having sharp edges and skis that are running makes skiing easier, safer and more enjoyable. Sharp edges help you grip, especially on harder snow or ice giving you much more control. Waxing helps your skis glide smoothly and turn more quickly, making it easier to get around the mountain. It also protects your bases making your skis last longer. Even better, maintaining your own skis is not at all difficult.

Here’s my guide to getting skis (or snowboards) ready to get the most out of your snow trips. Here I talk about preparing skis but it all applies equally to snowboards too!

Edging Having sharp edges makes it easier to turn and means you can ski better and more confidently in tough conditions like ice. I tune my skis to 87° as this helps get them sharper than at 90° however they don’t stay as sharp for as long (but as I sharpen my skis every day, it’s not a problem). I recommend that for recreational skiing you should sharpen to between 88° and 90°. 90° is sharp enough for almost all conditions but if it’s really icy try 88°.

World Cup pistes are generally sheet ice so I use an incredible “Snowglide” edging machine but as this costs over £2000 it is probably a bit extreme for most recreational skiers! A DataWax Get-a-Grip is an easy to use, affordable edging tool that is very portable so you can sharpen your skis in just a few minutes of an evening of a ski holiday. This tool has the option of either 88° or 90° angles so that you can tune your skis for exactly what you need.

Hold the Get-a-grip with the plastic touching the base and the file against the side edge. Have the file facing so that it cuts as you pull towards you, you don’t

PIXELS: ALEX WITKOWICZ

need to press too hard. Pull the guide towards you, running in long smooth strokes, keeping the pressure even and the plastic guide flat against the base.

C O N T I N U E S

CONTENT

Repeat until the edge is sharp along the whole length of the ski. Running a diamond stone along both the base and side of the edge will get them super smooth. If it has been rocky it’s worth doing this both before and after filing to get rid of any burrs in the edge.

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ASK ALCOTT CHARACTERS: JIM ODOIRE PIXELS: PHOTOFARM

WARREN MILLER FILM CREW’S JIM ODOIRE CATCHES UP WITH CHEMMY ALCOTT ON A FLEETING VISIT BACK TO LONDON

SINCE

What are your plans for this come-back season? This year is about getting the feel back, improving the start numbers and my big goal is to get faster on the flats (always been my nemesis) since both the World Champ hill in 2013 in Schladming and the Olympic track have long sections of fast flats.

With Sochi 2014 on the horizon how do go about preparing long term?

I go out there every day and try to be better, stronger, faster so that in February 2014 i will be at my peak and know that whatever happens i have given it my all.

suffering a career-threatening injury

in a horrific ski crash in 2010, the UK’s #1 skier Chemmy Alcott has defied the odds and battled her wayback from injury to resume full-time trainingin advance of the forthcoming World Cup circuit this season.

How’s the leg? Within one camp back, I completely forgot about my

What are your plans after Sochi? I am going to be a female adventurer/

‘weak’ leg. Yes, sometimes because of all the metal work it aches post

explorer.

skiing but when I am skiing at speeds of up to 130kph (love all the new GPS gadgets that give us our average speed) it doesn’t even register.

Your other half is the UK’s #1 male skier Dougie Crawford Are you competitive with eachother on the slopes ? Yes always - from skiing, to

Is there any one piece of equipment or advice that has particularly helped on

who can catch the first wave, to who can eat dinner the fastest - the Crawford/

your road to recovery? Everyone at Third Space medical center. Within a month post

Alcott household is full of games, challenges and after dinner competitions!

crash i was back to satisfying my endorphin addiction by working out with the physio,

Both Dougie and you are ambassadors for Mizuno’s Breath

trainers and in the gyrotonics studio. As well as the Compex muscle stim which worked so

Thermo range. I understand it’s all about an innovative a new

well that even after months of non weight bearing, my right leg was still bigger than my

technology that has helped you with your comeback – tell me

left. The Game Ready, ice and compression machine which I plugged into at night which

about it It’s great working with a company that has so much focus on

allowed me to rest without hammering painkillers was also integral to my recovery.

research and development and as far as technology is concerned the

When did you start training again and how has it been going over the summer? As some

Japanese are years ahead of us - for me, being warm means I’m less likely

of you maybe aware I took part on Dancing with Ice, which really helped physically and mentally

to be susceptable to injury, can ski for longer so train harder and get

- as well as getting daily physio! It helped my feeling for edges and foot control and also gave me a big distraction when I couldn’t ski. My first ski camp was in May with my boyfriend Dougie Crawford where we were both following the same basic return to snow programme. Within 6

stronger - I don’t miss time having to go to the cafe to warm up because of the magic of the thermals using my body moisture to heat me up. Also they are so warm I can use less layers helping me move easier which is

months i am now flying through the air comfortably on 60 meter jumps, hitting fast speeds and

imperative in what we do.

pushing the limit again. My expectations of my comeback have been blown out the water since I

Finally, if people want to follow your comeback and help what can they

didn’t expect to be skiing this fast so soon - but that can only be a good thing!

do ? I am a social network busy bee so you can folllow me on twitter @Chemmyski

So how are you funding yourself for the coming season? I am massively grateful to my

or facebook at Team Chemmy and if you are feeling generous and want to support

sponsors for putting me in a position so that I can have this last one push for a PB at my 4th

check out the Donation tab on my website www.chemmyalcott.com

Olympics in Sochi. Monarch recently came on board as my head sponsor along with Skiset, Mizuno, Landrover, Atomic and J2Ski. I’m fortunate to have such great brands behind me.

There is still a short fall so I have also set up a donation page on my website where ski fans can get a kind of ‘money can’t buy’ personal experience and help me fulfill my dream.

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SEQUENCE NOTES

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT FLOW STATE, SCENE BY SCENE

12 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

CHARACTERS: WARREN MILLER ENTERTAINMENT BIG PIXELS: ALEX WITKOWICZ (Utah) SMALL PIXELS: BRADEN GUNEM (Colorado) / GLEN CLAYDON (Japan) / JEFF ENGERBRETSON (Alaska)

CHUGACH POWDER GUIDES, ALASKA ATHLETES: Ted Ligety, Marcus Caston, Phil Meier EQUIPMENT: Skis, Helicopter Olympic Gold Medalist Ted Ligety and racer-turned-freeskier Marcus Caston take the lead from Swiss freeskier Phil Meier and learn how to approach the backcountry as they’re set loose in 1,663,267 square miles of pure Alaskan wilderness. The Chugach Range averages 600 inches of snowfall per year that covers countless powder walls, averaging 3,000 - 4,000ft in vertical expanse. After a handful of ragdoll wipeouts and stomach-churning crashes, Ligety and Caston learn two valuable lessons: One, Alaskan heli-skiing is not for the meek; and two, conquering your fear is the greatest reward of all.

NISEKO, JAPAN ATHLETES: Tyler Ceccanti, Roman Rohrmoser, Tatsuya Tayagaki EQUIPMENT: Skis Miles away from Tokyo’s bright lights and high-tech populace lays Japan’s finest mountain destination, Niseko. While most of the globe was in a serious drought last winter, Niseko was constantly shoveling. At least that’s how Tyler Ceccanti, Roman Rohrmoser and Tatsuya Tayagaki make it seem. Although they come from different cultures and different sides of the globe, a deep love for powder snow unites these skiing superstars.

NORTHSTAR, CALIFORNIA ATHLETES: Toby Miller, Aspen Spora, Billy Mann, David Wise, Eero Ettala, Elena Hight, Austin Simonpietri EQUIPMENT: Skis, Snowboards Eleven-year-olds Aspen Spora and Toby Miller don’t build snowmen or play video games during the winter; they huck cliffs and throw big air in the park. While Aspen proves he can hold his own in the powder, the park is where he really shines.

Even with an obvious height disadvantage, he gives David Wise a run for his money when they hit the Superpipe. After only a few minutes of watching Aspen land tricks in the park, it’s easy to see how much he loves the sport. “I would have no life without skiing,” he admits. “My life would be school, ping-pong and eating.” It’s a good thing he put on a pair of skis at such a young age because we agree: “Skiing is much better than school.”

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FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

TELLURIDE, COLORADO ATHLETES: Jess McMillan, Daron Rahlves, Josh Bibby, Chris Davenport, Regan Smith EQUIPMENT: Skis, Helicopter, NASCAR Vehicle Jess makes it to Telluride just in time for takeoff, where she is welcomed by big-mountain legend Chris Davenport, skiracing icon Daron Rahlves and Canadian big-mountain skier Josh Bibby. Watch as this team of backcountry experts takes on Telluride and lays tracks all across the San Juans. This area is home to 14 peaks that reach over 14,000 feet, and last season’s wild weather made it a target for avalanche danger. “I think one of the things that’s most attractive for me about the sport of skiing is the mental focus that you need when you’re out in the mountains,” says Davenport. “It’s such a dangerous environment.”

KINGS & CORN, ALASKA ATHLETES: Tommy Moe, Daron Rahlves, Marco Sullivan EQUIPMENT: Skis, Helicopter, Fishing Boat, Floatplane, Fishing Poles With a floatplane, helicopter and slew of fishing boats, Tommy takes World Cup Champions Daron Rahlves and Marco Sullivan to the top of Tordillo’s volcanic peaks and ancient glaciers, terrain that is accessible only by helicopter. After years of grueling training and continuous practice, they’re champing at the bit to ski Alaska’s untracked peaks.

FLOW RIDERS ATHLETES: Frederik Kalbermatten, Tim Humphreys, Chas Guldemond, Gulli Gudmundsson, Victor De Le Rue EQUIPMENT: Snowboards Leave it to these snowboarders to catch the biggest air. This montage of boarding antics showcases over-the-top jumps, unthinkable jibs and endless pow shots. Adrenaline-pumping footage of the world’s top snowboarding talent will take over the screen. Watch as these famed riders charge down powder spines and crush it in the urban scene.

C O N T I N U E D

SEQUENCE NOTES

14 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

10TH MOUNTAIN DIVISION, COLORADO ATHLETES: Chris Anthony, Scott Kennett, Tony Seibert, Various 10th Mountain Division Veterans EQUIPMENT: Skis, Authentic 10th Mountain Division Military Equipment Go back in time with Warren Miller legend Chris Anthony as he explores the roots of American ski culture and celebrates our country’s renowned 10th Mountain Division. These “original ski bums,” as Scott Kennett describes them, pioneered the way for today’s ski culture. Watch vintage footage of the veterans attempting to navigate The Rockies’ unforgiving terrain with 7ft hickory skis and 90-pound packs. And have a laugh as Anthony, Seibert and Scott Kennett take an unsuccessful stab at skiing on this now antique equipment.

CORDOVA, ALASKA ATHLETES: Kevin Quinn, Travis Ganong, Mitch Tölderer EQUIPMENT: Skis, Helicopter Ultimate ski bums Kevin and Jessica Quinn moved to Alaska and opened Points North Heli-Adventures, Inc. Without a doubt, they have the best job in Cordova - navigating helicopters through the Chugach, spotting lines and delivering skiers to their destination. Shredding with Points North is so enticing that the Quinns have World Cup racer Travis Ganong washing dishes just to earn a few powder turns. But with all the skiing Travis wants to do, he’s going to need a bigger sink.

C O N T I N U E S

BIG PIXELS: ALEX WITKOWICZ (Utah) SMALL PIXELS: COURT LEVE (Alaska) / ALEX WITKOWICZ (Norway) / PETER MATHIS (Switzerland)

THIS IS P A G E 15

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

C O N T I N U E D

SEQUENCE NOTES MÜRREN, SWITZERLAND ATHLETES: Hugo Harrisson, Sascha Schmid EQUIPMENT: Skis, Funitel, Cable Car Perched on the side of a cliff and only accessible by cable car or train, Mürren is a “classic European ski town,” as bigmountain skier Hugo Harrisson describes it. After exploring the village on skis, climb another 7,000ft to the summit of the Eiger and watch Hugo and local sensation Sascha Schmid lay fresh tracks between jagged chutes. Things may seem harsh on the Eiger - all snow and exposed rock - but to these powder-thirsty skiers, it’s paradise. “It gives a lot of options for BASE jumpers, speed flyers, climbers, mountaineers, freeskiers - it’s the top of Europe,” says Hugo.

CANYONS RESORT, UTAH Athletes: Blake Nyman, Keely Kelleher, Julian Carr, Kaylin Richardson, Cooper Hoffmeister, Branden Doyon Equipment: Skis, Helicopter With 12,000ft peaks, plenty of lift-access backcountry and ample amounts of “the greatest snow on earth,” Canyons Resort has perfected the recipe for a legendary Utah skiing experience. Follow the crew as they ski beyond the boundary rope and show off their favorite spots in the Wasatch Mountains. Countless laps through powder fields and steep chutes leave these big-mountain skiers wanting more. As Keely describes “[Snow] accelerates everyone’s mood. You can feel that energy rip down the coolest mountains in the world.”

RETRO FREESTYLE SKIING, SQUAW VALLEY ATHLETES: Jonny Moseley, Bob Howard, Thom Brisson EQUIPMENT: Short Skis Is it really true that today’s freeskiing stems from ski ballet? That’s at least what Bob Howard claims. Flashback with Moseley as he digs up his neon one-piece and takes us back in time for a little ski ballet. Back when ski ballet was a legitimate sport, it gave skiers the chance to gain mad street-cred. “We got points for good hair, cool clothes, pyrotechnical things,” says freestyle legend Bob Howard. You’re probably laughing, but these skiers take their pliés and pirouettes very seriously as they hotdog through the Lake Tahoe area.

16 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

BIG PIXELS: ALEX WITKOWICZ (Utah) SMALL PIXELS: PETER MATHIS (Switzerland) / SCOTT MARKEWITZ (Utah) / SCOTT MARKEWITZ (Utah)

HOW YOU LIKE ME NOW? ATHLETES: Jossi Wells, Clayton Vila, Dane Tudor, Josh Stack, Alex Schlopy, Cam Riley, Leigh Powis, Sean Pettit, Riley Leboe, Sean Jordan, Mike Henitiuk, Andreas Håtveit, Paddy Graham, Banks Gilberti, Pep Fujas, Karl Fostvedt, Joss Christensen, Bobby Brown, Willie Borm, Charley Ager

EQUIPMENT: Skis, Winches No terrain is off-limits and no slope is out-of-bounds for the outrageous freeskiers showcased in this progressive freestyle montage. Watch as the world’s top skiers attack urban transitions, towering cliffs and gnarly rails - reinventing the sport of freeskiing. Whether they’re in the park or the parking lot, these guys never stop charging.

COLBY WEST’S AUSTRIA ATHLETE: Colby James West EQUIPMENT: Skis Join X Games Champion Colby James West as he travels to the foot of Europe’s Kitzsteinhorn Glacier to introduce the art of freeskiing to the Austrian village of Kaprun - or so he thinks. Colby gears up in a tall-tee and his park skis, hoping to share the gospel of mute grabs and rail slides with this isolated population. Little does he know, he’s preaching to the choir.

SVALBARD, NORWAY ATHLETES: Jackie Paaso, Aurélien Ducroz, Doug Stoup EQUIPMENT: Skis, Sailboat, Touring Gear To adventure skiers Jackie Paaso and Aurélien Ducroz, Svalbard (Europe’s northernmost archipelago) holds some of the most unique terrain on earth. Instead of a snowmobile or helicopter, Jackie and Aurélien board a 62ft sailboat to explore the Norwegian Arctic, in search of the steepest lines. “There’s not too many places left in the world where you can be alone,” agrees Aurélien. Once on shore, they summit crystal glaciers and cover their hiking tracks with perfect lines. “Both the journey up the mountain and down the mountain really make a great experience,” says Jackie. “Everything feels a lot better on the way down when you’ve really earned those turns.”

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FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

K2 BRIGHTSIDE SKIS £385 (SKI ONLY) A new addition to K2’s range of back-country skis, these perform well on and off piste.

Voted top by our team of testers.

ANON M1 GOGGLES £179.99 This exciting goggle innovation uses magnets to make interchanging lenses a breeze.

DAKINE ZONE JACKET £320 New outerwear collection from the respected luggage and accessory brand. Products have a technical freeride and backcountry slant for the savvy older customer looking for the next cool brand.

MONS ROYAL BOYFRIEND LONG SLEEVE £69.99

BRIGHT AND SHINY

NEW STUFF FROM SNOW+ROCK

BIG PIXELS: PETER MATHIS

18 I S T H I S P A G E

Uber cool merino wool brand offering stylish underwear and baselayers that are perfect up the mountain or on the city streets. Started in 2009 in lake Wanaka in New Zealand, they already have a loyal following and are exclusive to Snow+Rock in the UK. AVAILABLE FROM ALL SNOW+ROCK STORES AND AT SNOWANDROCK.COM

the latest gear from the world’s best brands

New Click & Collect as easy as...

1.

order online from snowandrock.com (choose ‘click & collect’ at checkout)

2.

receive an sms saying your order is ready

3.

pick up from your chosen store

Or order online and get products delivered for free* using exclusive code: WMFREEDEL For more information and the full range go to www.snowandrock.com / For great advice and service visit us in-store 0845 100 1000

www.snowandrock.com

21

Stores Nationwide

National Stores: Birmingham • Brighton • Bristol • Chertsey • Croydon • Exeter • Gateshead • Gloucester • Hemel Hempstead Manchester (Didsbury & Chill Factore) • Romford • Portsmouth • Wirral. Ireland Store: • Dublin. London Stores: • Chelsea Covent Garden • Harrods • Kensington • Monument. *free standard delivery available until 31.12.12

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

BRIGHT AND SHINY

NEW STUFF FROM ELLIS BRIGHAM

BIG PIXELS: PETER MATHIS

ATOMIC ALIBI £540 Winner of the FallLine Ski of the Year award. An ultralightweight titanium insert runs the length of the ski like a stabilising backbone. As a result the Alibi runs smoothly on piste, allowing the skier to control the ski effortlessly and with precision.

NORTH FACE PATROL 24 ABS PACK £749.99 Features the innovative ABS Avalanche Airbag System, the industry’s most trusted technology for preventing burial in an avalanche. When activated by the user the ABS system utilises compressed CO2 to inflate two integrated, 85 litre airbags that keep the user on the surface of the avalanche and speed up rescue due to their visibility.

RECON MOD LIVE £319.99 This ground breaking device brings completely new meaning to your alpine experience. MOD Live delivers crisp widescreen graphics of the important information that you want to see as you tear down the mountain. Speed, vertical descent, jump airtime, navigation and distance are all delivered using built-in precision GPS and an integrated suite of sensors.

LOFOTEN GTX PRO JACKET £459.99

The defining big mountain, all-weather ski jacket. The iconic Lofoten is engineered in 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro stretch ripstop waterproof/breathable fabric with laminated seams and 8mm GORE-TEX micro taping. Sizes: S - XL

LOFOTEN GTX PRO PANTS £399.99 This cult backcountry workhorse continues to lead the way in performance ski pants design. Amazing semi-relaxed engineered fit in durable 3-layer GORE-TEX Pro fabric. Sizes: S - XL AVAILABLE FROM ALL ELLIS BRIGHAM STORES AND AT ELLIS-BRIGHAM.COM

20 I S T H I S P A G E

Mount Werner East Face: Steamboat

WORK HARD PLAY HARD 24 specialist shops nationwide 2 exciting mail order catalogues www.ellis-brigham.com www.snowboard-asylum.com find us on

WIN A HOLIDAY FOR TWO www.ellis-brigham.com/steamboat

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

ONE LOCAL’S PERSPECTIVE A PERSONAL VIEW OF LAKE TAHOE

22 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

CHARACTERS: JENN GLECKMAN PIXELS: COREY RICH/

HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT

I’VE

called Lake Tahoe home

now for over twelve years. Before then, I lived in some pretty cool places, including the French Alps. When asked why I call this place home, or why I continue to live here, my answer is simple. It’s because I love living here.

Put simply, Lake Tahoe is gorgeous. An

enormous alpine lake, the largest in North America.

C O N T I N U E S THIS IS P A G E 23 43

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

PIXELS: COREY RICH / HEAVENLY MOUNTAIN RESORT C O N T I N U E D

ONE LOCAL’S PERSPECTIVE

Its scenic beauty is the type that makes amateur cell-

personality, and more importantly, terrain.

phone photographs like mine look flawless. And when the

mountains that surround it are dressed in my favorite

resorts over the years. Like pretty much anytime I’ve

color, white, it’s the only place in the world I want to be.

skied KT-22 at Squaw Valley. Or storm skiing in Sierra-

But beyond the jaw-dropping, cliché-inducing beauty

at-Tahoe’s trees (free refills!). The fun of descending any

of Lake Tahoe, there is – at least for me – the skiing. That

of The Chutes at Mt. Rose, some of the longest continuous

is why I first came here, and why I stay. Lake Tahoe has

vertical in North America. The deep powder in Sentinel

the highest concentration of ski resorts in North America.

Bowl at Kirkwood. And the long steep runs off Northstar

It also boasts 300 days of sunshine each year and an

California’s Backside. Alpine Meadows’ hike-to bowls are

annual average of 400 inches of snow. While that might

always worth the effort. And there’s nothing like making

seem contradictory, storms come in big to this part of the

powder turns in Heavenly’s Killebrew Canyon with the

world, and are typically measured in feet and not inches.

Nevada desert expanding below you.

Snowstorms move through fast, leaving us with plenty

of bluebird powder days. This explains why fat skis and

love skiing at Lake Tahoe. Clearly boredom really isn’t an

sunblock are both needed during a Lake Tahoe winter.

option with this much variety. It’s more a function of your

stamina.

The seven Ski Lake Tahoe resorts, which together

I’ve had plenty of memorable days at each of these

You get the idea. These are just a few reasons why I

comprise a boggling 17,000 acres of skiable terrain, are

located all around Lake Tahoe. Each has its own unique

Lake Tahoe ski vacation and see for yourself.

24 I S T H I S P A G E

But don’t take my word for it. Plan your own

u Custom ski packages available for any length of stay.

Located in the center of seven world-class ski resorts, all within one hour of our all-suite property. Or simply walk to Heavenly Mountain Resort, one of North America’s premier ski destinations.

Your package includes: • skiing/boarding at our choice of 7 world-class resorts • lodging in a spacious two-room suite • complimentary cooked-to-order breakfast daily and evening manager’s reception* *Must be of legal drinking age. Subject to State and Local laws.

Lake Tahoe - Hotel & Ski Resort 800.988.9850 • embassytahoe.com

Luxurious Resort at Squaw Creek Ski in, ski-out to Squaw Valley

Ski packages with Squaw Valley lift ticket and breakfast each morning start at *$279US warrenmiller@destinationhotels.com • www.visitsquawcreek.com *per person, per night, based on double occupancy.

Discover squaw valley’s

Legendary Location Escape to ski-in/ski-out Squaw Valley Lodge, renowned for spacious and well appointed condominiums and the finest of hotel amenities and services.

•Ski-In/Ski-Out Convenience •Spacious Condominiums •Extensive Health Club with Indoor/ Outdoor Spas •Steps from Dining & Shopping

001.530.562.4846

For more information visit skisquawlodge.com or your preferred travel professional.

SkiSquawLodge.com

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

BUY IT!

THIS IS THE NEW WARREN MILLER DVD RELEASE “DON’T TAKE LIFE TOO SERIOUSLY, BECAUSE YOU CAN’T COME OUT OF IT ALIVE!”: WARREN MILLER

NARRATED

by Olympic

Gold Medalist Jonny Moseley and shot on location on five

continents,

There’s

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celebrates the moments that make up a perfect winter.

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Washington to the legendary powder of Squaw Valley, California; from the striking Himalayas

in

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hemisphere’s highest peak in Portillo, Chile. Alaska. Utah.

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Norway. It’s all here, just waiting for you to fill in the blank...

PURCHASE FROM: WARRENMILLER.CO.UK PURCHASE FROM: DEMANDDVD.CO.UK

28 I S T H I S P A G E

A warm hello from California where Glen Plake, pioneer of extreme skiing, is always taking his “go big” attitude and going even bigger. Join Glen on the sunshine-soaked slopes of Tahoe and Mammoth and find out why there’s no snow like California snow.

Elevate your sense of adventure at visitcalifornia.co.uk

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

30 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

TEN THINGS TO DO ASPEN CONTINUES TO INSPIRE THE SNOW-LOVER, CHRIS DAVENPORT

CHARACTERS: CHRIS DAVENPORT

ASPEN

produces some of the

most world-renowned skiers, like Chris Davenport. Spend a day in the life of an

elite local like Dav and explore some of his favourite spots in Aspen/Snowmass.

1. Best Expert Terrain - Looking for some

great steeps and stashes? Check out some of North America’s only inbounds hike-to terrain at Aspen Highlands. In the words of Dav, “The Highlands Bowl takes this (category) by a British mile!”

C O N T I N U E S

T H I S I S PAGE 31 43

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

C O N T I N U E D

32 I S T H I S P A G E

TEN THINGS TO DO

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

2. Best Cruiser Terrain - Even the big mountain skiers

6. Best Powder Skiing - It’s hard not to trust the advice of

enjoy the quality cruisers that Aspen has to offer. When

someone that truly knows the meaning of powder. “By far

asked about his favourite cruisers, Davenport remarks,

it’s the G-Zones in Highlands Bowl- guaranteed face shots

“Absolutely the Big Burn at Snowmass - also Tiehack with

a week after a storm.”

its new high speed lift, which will change the way people ski Buttermilk.”

7. Best Terrain Park - This answer comes as no surprise seeing that the park at Buttermilk has an Olympic-sized

3. Best for Kids - Buttermilk is home to one of the best

superpipe as just one of its many epic features. Dav agrees

programs for kids in the valley, the Powder Pandas. “The

with much of the park-skiing community that the X Games

Powder Pandas program is legendary and now part of the

Park at Buttermilk is unbeatable.

Aspen Valley Ski and Snowboard Club (AVSC).”

schedule all winter long. We asked him what airline carrier he turns to and trusts out of Aspen to get him to the powder. “United Flights are the most frequent and

C O N T I N U E S

4. Best Flights - As a pro-skier, Dav often has a stacked

consistent.”

5. Best Nightclub - For a great night out on the town, many agree that Escobar has been the spot to go. Great dancing, drinks and company keep you entertained to the wee hours of the morning. Per Dav, “Escobar has been killing it lately - what a great spot.”

THIS IS P A G E 33

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

C O N T I N U E D

TEN THINGS TO DO

8. Best Rental Shop - Dav supports the homegrown, posh

10. Best Coffee Shop - With so many options for a hot cup

ski rental shop, Gorsuch. “Gorsuch, unique to Colorado.

of coffee it can be hard to choose. Dav generally stays loyal

Founded by Renie and David Gorsuch, who met while

to the hand-roasted coffee at Ink! Coffee located on East

competing in the 1960 Winter Olympics. The flagship

Durant. He refers to himself as a “Cafe Ink guy.”

Gorsuch store is located at the base of Ajax Mountain but there’s also one in The Little Nell and two stores in

Aspen Skiing Company operates the four mountains in

Snowmass. This is the place to get your “rich people ski

the Aspen/Snowmass area - Snowmass, Aspen Mountain,

gear, including a pair of limited edition, hand-crafted

Aspen Highlands and Buttermilk - as well as the award-

Heidi Skis, which come completed with tip-to-tail white

winning Ski & Snowboard Schools of Aspen/Snowmass.

ash core and the potential to have a bespoke topsheet

The area offers unparalleled nightlife and off-slope

made to your design.” (Heidi skis cost from $1,250.00.)

activities as well. Aspen/Snowmass is accessible by two of the most convenient airports in the mountains – Aspen/

9. Best On-Mountain Lunch - After a long morning of

Pitkin County Airport (ASE) (3 miles from Aspen) and

crushing the slopes, Bonnie’s is one of Dav’s favourite

Eagle County Airport (EGE) (70 miles from Aspen). For

places to take in the views, the vibe and indulge in some

more information on Aspen Skiing Company, please

mid-day munching. “We love Bonnie’s on Ajax - it is where

call +1 800-525-6200 or +1 970-925-1220, or visit the

the elite come to blend in with the locals.”

company’s website at www.aspensnowmass.com.

34 I S T H I S P A G E

SUN SNOW FUN CONNECT & SHARE

aspensnowmass.com 877-282-7736

Deep Powder The Gant, Aspen, Colorado’s premier condominium vacation rentals combine the comforts and luxuries of home with the service of a world-class hotel. The Gant offers: • Individually decorated one to four bedroom condominiums featuring full kitchens, living areas with wood-burning fireplaces, and private balconies or patios • Outstanding pools and hot tub • Exceptional skiing at four mountains within Aspen & Snowmass • Overnight ski tuning, full-service concierge, and complimentary shuttle service

Luxurious Accommodations

The Gant-Aspen, providing superior service and an exceptional lodging experience.

610 S. West End Street • Aspen, CO 81611 Reservations: 970-925-5000 • Fax: 970-925-6891 www.gantaspen.com

A SURE THING FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

WHEN YOUR VACATION IS A SNOWFALL GAMBLE IT’S BEST TO BACK THE FAVOURITE: WHISTLER BLACKCOMB

38 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

CHARACTERS: VINCE SHULEY PIXELS: JUSTA JESKOVA

IN

a world of turbulent weather and an even more turbulent economy, vacationing

skiers and snowboarders are less willing to take chances. They want a resort that they can get to quickly from an international airport, and they want a resort thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s going to provide them with a world class guest experience. Above all, they want snow. And lots of it.

It is this golden trifecta of convenience, service and snow that Whistler

continuously provides, year after year. There are many other ski resorts in the world that offer great service and proximity to urban centres, but on the criterion of snowfall, Whistler remains unmatched.

C O N T I N U E S THIS IS P A G E 39

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EARâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

C O N T I N U E D

A SURE THING

PIXELS: TIM HAILWOOD

The 10-year annual average cumulative snowfall for Whistler Blackcomb is 11.9m (39.1ft), a number that has seen steady increase in the last three years. Monthly records continue to be broken; the 2011-2012 season had its snowiest March in recent history with 405cm (159in) and the year before saw the second largest seasonal snowfall ever with 1579cm (622in). While no resort could ever guarantee the snow to arrive, Whistler Blackcomb is as close as it gets.

Why is Whistler so fortunate? Luck may play a part, but

the consistent snow can be better explained with regional weather systems and Whistlerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s unique geography.

Storms take shape as a result of the sun heating the Earth unevenly and the atmosphere redistributing its heat.

Elongated regions of low atmospheric pressure (called troughs) tend to form frequently in the Gulf of Alaska and are carried east by the polar jet stream. These moistureC O N T I N U E S

40 I S T H I S P A G E

P: Eric Berger

NO WONDER WEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;RE CONSISTENTLY RATED THE #1 RESORT IN NORTH AMERICA

visit whistlerblackcomb.com/uk or your preferred travel professional for details

/

/

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

C O N T I N U E D

A SURE THING

PIXELS: MIKE CRANE

heavy storms roll off the Pacific Ocean hitting the west

side-by-side mountains, a vibrant mountain culture of

coast of British Columbia and Washington State, often

athletes, artists, film makers, photographers, festivals

bringing familiar rain to cities such as Vancouver and

and events that is unmatched, and of course, arguably the

Seattle. But as the precipitous clouds travel inland and up

best après scene anywhere.

the sides of mountains, they cool and start dumping the

white stuff with fierce intensity. This is where Whistler’s

bowls, three glaciers, more than 200 marked trails, and

geographical location comes into play. As storms pass over

one mile of vertical have helped to establish it as the

mountain ranges they tend to lose their moisture, which

destination on every skier and rider’s must-do list. Link

is the reason why the Rocky Mountains will typically not

all of that terrain with the world’s most advanced high-

have as deep a snowpack as that of the Coast Mountains

speed lift system (37 lifts including 17 express lifts and the

(where Whistler is located).

PEAK 2 PEAK Gondola), and you have an unrivaled ski

Cyclic weather systems such as El Niño Southern

and snowboard experience. And while Whistler Blackcomb

Oscillation (ENSO) bring even more powerful storms to

is a true skier and snowboarder’s dream come true, the

the Coast Mountains, the crowd favourite being ENSO’s

huge, wide-open, and varied terrain of these mountains

cold phase La Niña. These seasons are characterised by

is ideal for skiers of all levels including families, children

cooler than normal temperatures and above-average

and those who are new to the sport.

snowfalls.

Add to all that snow the most skiable terrain in North

endure through seasons of unpredictable weather, and

America, the continent’s longest winter season, a world

two mountains full of adventure why gamble your winter

record-breaking gondola that connects the peaks of two

vacation? Whistler Blackcomb is a sure thing.

42 I S T H I S P A G E

Whistler and Blackcomb’s massive terrain, 16 alpine

With a proven record of reliable snow, an ability to

Ski the Best of North America with Virgin Holidays With 16 world class resorts to choose from across the USA and Canada, Virgin Holidays will take you to the best powder on the planet in style.

F R E E Ski C arriage!

available Virgin Atla on all ntic to North A flights merica

To book call 0844 557 3949 or visit virginholidays.co.uk/warrenmiller FROM

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

GET MORE OUT OF THE MOUNTAIN THE SKI CLUB OF GREAT BRITAIN HAS A NEW PRESIDENT AND SOME NEW GETAWAYS

44 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

PIXELS: ROSSWOODHALL.COM

THE

Ski Club is the biggest snowsports club in the UK

for good reason, with a flourishing community of skiers and snowboarders. With new president Frank Gardner on board the Club continues to drive and inspire people to ski while adding more and more value for its members. Frank Gardner is the BBC’s award-winning security correspondent reporting for TV, radio and online programmes. He’s enjoyed skiing down some of the world’s more unusual slopes in Iran, Lebanon and Transylvania.

C O N T I N U E S THIS IS P A G E 45

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

C O N T I N U E D

GET MORE OUT OF THE MOUNTAIN

PIXELS: ROSSWOODHALL.COM

help plan your holiday too. Members can also rate resorts and read comments and feedback from others.

For those heading out to the snow, the unrivalled

Ski Club Leader service, available in over 30 top resorts worldwide, provides the opportunity to ski with other members and find your way around the mountain. Our volunteer Leaders know how to find the best runs of the day, those secret stashes of powder and toasty restaurants tucked away from busy pistes.

We run Ski Club holidays for members too. The Ski

Club Freshtracks team have listened carefully to their loyal following of snow-hungry holiday-makers and created an inspirational selection of winter getaways for the new season; introducing the first ever ‘Chalet Freshtracks’,

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46 I S T H I S P A G E

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FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

OUT TO THE LAST FRONTIER

MEMORIES BURNED INTO MUSCLE FROM AN INDELIBLE POWDER JOURNEY, MARCH 2012

50 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

9:12AM.

CHARACTERS: tobias c. van Veen PIXELS: DAVE SILVER

Jetset anticipation.

The roar of the jet engines wake me from slumber as we whip high and fast through white cirrus. Below me stretches the Coast Range. The inside passage, once sailed by Captain James Cook, stretches into the distance off to the west, while the wild mountains of British Columbia dominate the east. The orange glow of a morning sun refracts a thousand shards of light from glaciers far below. I keep the sunglasses on. All I can see out the hazy window are first descents.

10:33am. Windblown to Smithereens.

Smithers airport is a patch of icy tarmac. I glance around and recognise a few skiers with their racoon-eyes; suspicions are confirmed as the two-metre bags clank through the carousel. Soon, we are shaking hands: there’s Jaime, a guide with Last Frontier, all nimble smiles, and a handful of European guests, zoned if not zonked from the timewarp across the Atlantic to this far Canadian outpost, and yet visibly excited as we step outside into the cool air and spy, in the distance, the massive mountains that surround us. Without further ado, our luxury coach arrives. The next few hours pass in conversation, sleep, and Scrabble as Jaime fills us in on the terrain. It’s huge, he says - bigger then anything we’ve ever seen. We devour fresh sandwiches as the coach rattles over a well-worn road dwarfed by four metre snowbanks. The Stewart-Cassiar appears to lead into the middle of absolute nowhere.

C O N T I N U E S THIS IS P A G E 51

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

C O N T I N U E D

OUT TO THE LAST FRONTIER

PIXELS: DAVE SILVER

5:48pm. Home by the firelight.

and I line the pillows up against the crackling cartilage in

Bell 2 Lodge glows warm in the twilight wood, its yellow

my knees, and bounce down at speed, popping and airing,

cedars buried by a monumental snowpack. Bags are

whooping and hollering, sprays of white gold flying high

tossed in a snowmobile sled, and I amble in for the first

over my head. I am a powder cowboy incarnate…and yes

briefing with our lead guide, Jeff. Soon we are immersed

perhaps slightly delusional.

in weather, terrain and the primal hunt for powder. Plans are set - we will take off first thing in the morning after

11:24am. Powder hound unbound.

beacon practice. Then we’re off to our cozy chalets through

The summit reveals itself as whispy, low-lying clouds part.

corridors of snow. The air is crisp, and the orange evening

Jeff prepares us for the 700 metre descent. The line is a

light flickers across the surrounding peaks, which stretch,

Shangri-La. From the alpine bowl we slip past haunting

tantalisingly, in all directions. I get lost - but find the hot

cornices. Spindrift floats against the sun; snow crystals

tub, yoga room, snow cave, firepit and outdoor ice bar.

hang suspended as if in slow-motion. A natural halfpipe,

Then I stumble across my cabin, with sprawling king-

carved out by wind, is ripe for slashing and smearing. The

sized bed, hot shower and a roaring firestove. I think I like

playful terrain spills out into a wide meadow, where we

this place.

surf powder, skiing without speed limits. The yellow bird is far down below, a mirage in the mind’s eye. It is the only

8:47am. Up the bird

other human artifact for as far as I can see. The powder

Anne is at the helm, our Québecois chopper madame,

universe surrounds us.

guiding the graceful, 5-seater A-Star into the thin air. First

peak, first run, and we are out the door. Beacons checked,

are one, dancing with delicacy, crowning each summit

skis clicked, and Jeff leads the way down an untouched

with a gentle touchdown. The advantage of the small

bowl of sparkling smokedust. I am last to roll and let

team is clear: this is the way it is meant to be, a tight crew

loose into high-speed airplane turns, screaming into the

scouting transcendent lines in massive terrain. Digital

wind, rooster tails flourishing. We’ve finally landed, and

cameras fill memory cards with vast views. There are,

are reaping the benefits of over seven days of storm that

simply, too many peaks to count. Hungry eyes scan the

dumped untold metres prior to our arrival.

jagged horizon of limitless possibility.

10:38am. Valley of the Gods.

1:12pm. Arctic hors d’ouevres.

Two hours later, after riding all manner of descents into

Lunch appears by flying carpet. The guides dig out a

alpine valleys of blue spruce, we set out to explore deep

picnic table as we bask in the sun and snow. The chef

into a new drainage. Tucked behind our last peak, the

anticipates all: soups, hearty sandwiches, sausages and

golden line awaits us: we’ve unearthed a small nirvana

cheeses, nuts and fresh fruits, hot chocolate and juices,

of pillows and christmas trees, thigh-deep in champagne

crisp vegetables and Swiss chocolate. We stock up the

blower. The usually staid Germans giggle with glee:

pockets with Toblerone, and zippers up, declare ourselves

they’ve never skied anything like this. Me, I’m a BC boy,

ready for round two. Snow shadow boxers.

52 I S T H I S P A G E

As before, the chopper awaits. Anne and the machine

go beyond.

Picture the largest single heliski area on the planet, 82 feet of annual snowfall, groups of just 4 or 5 guests, and two remote lodges to choose from. Now imagine yourself with four like minded enthusiasts cranking out turn after turn in zero-density-blower-fluffypow. Try wiping that smile off your face.

Visit our corner of northern British Columbia, Canada, and discover for yourself what makes Last Frontier a legend in its own right.

0203 059 8787 | uk@lastfrontierheli.com lastfrontierheli.com THIS IS P A G E 57

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

C O N T I N U E D

OUT TO THE LAST FRONTIER

PIXELS: DAVE SILVER

4:28pm. Schnaaps & soak for the snowblind.

That is the last I remember as the ancient bottle of scotch

We gesticulate wildly as we clamber out at the lodge,

is revealed from its hidden lair.

recanting the day’s tales with an eye on the après. Dark amber ales and pilsner - then rounds of schnapps, as we

9:48am. There are strange deeds done under

feast on hearty meats, chili and soup in the intimacy of the

whitegold sun...

cedar-planked bar. Soon, aching quads call for the hot tub.

I am balanced between heaven and earth in the high

Donning flip-flops and a fluffy white robe, I head to the

alpine, where the Coast and the Skeena ranges collide.

sauna. After the sweat session, I let my tortured muscles

The mountain is indelibly imprinted on my muscles and

relax in the outdoor bubbled bliss. Above me, crystal stars

memory. I glance far to the western horizon, where the

align in the deep black as the sun sets. The moon climbs

hallowed light reveals a skier’s Kubla Kahn: innumerable

above distant peaks. The snow is electrified with the

slopes unfolding into the impossible distance. The pleasure

ethereal, northern lights.

dome is decreed; we are redeemed as snowy saints. Our next line sees tracks only every few years. We are not even

7:37pm. Feast of the snowfiends.

close to the same range we were in yesterday: blue skies

We decide on wines. Laughing at the long table are guides,

have granted us range to roam and flying we have gone.

chopper hands, owners and guests. Then, it’s a feast: fresh

We have travelled far enough to get a glimpse of Alaska.

arugula salad with red and golden beets, dressed with lemon feta crumble; duck breast with jasmine rice, sweet

I turn to my ever-smirking tailguide. “Hey,” I say, thinking

chili sauce and Japanese edamame; pickerel fillet with red

I have a joke for his omnipotent grin - a product of knowing

pepper polenta, baby squash and oven roasted potatoes.

he lives the job of dreams. “I can see Sarah Palin from

Then dessert: out of this world, freshly made blueberry

here.” Only a guffaw. He’s heard it all. Time to ski the

cheesecake. And chocolate. We retire for ales and pool

dream of light, sparkling snow and ghostly shadow.

upstairs, before I am dragged into a ping-pong match.

54 I S T H I S P A G E

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BRITAIN’S #1 DOWNHILL SKIER

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FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

SKI WAXING, WHY BOTHER? MAINTAINING YOUR OWN SKIS IS NOT DIFFICULT

56 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

CHARACTERS: DOUGIE CRAWFORD BIG PIXELS: PETER MATHIS

AS

a ski racer tuning and waxing skis is just part of my daily routine, you

just always do your skis for the next day. The top 3 in World Championships have been separated by 0.01 seconds! So it is not a case of every second counts; it is every hundredth! When I’m training and racing I often spend hours a day in the ski room, sharpening edges, waxing, scraping and brushing to make my skis run faster and grip better on the snow. Skiers from other countries are able to employ an expert wax technician but due to budgets, I have to do all this myself.

Consequently when I was asked why bother for recreational skiing I was a bit taken aback - stunned in fact. The answer is simple, having sharp edges and skis that are running makes skiing easier, safer and more enjoyable. Sharp edges help you grip, especially on harder snow or ice giving you much more control. Waxing helps your skis glide smoothly and turn more quickly, making it easier to get around the mountain. It also protects your bases making your skis last longer. Even better, maintaining your own skis is not at all difficult.

Here’s my guide to getting skis (or snowboards) ready to get the

most out of your snow trips. Here I talk about preparing skis but it all applies equally to snowboards too!

Edging Having sharp edges makes it easier to turn and means you can ski better and more confidently in tough conditions like ice. I tune my skis to 87° as this helps get them sharper than at 90° however they don’t stay as sharp for as long (but as I sharpen my skis every day, it’s not a problem). I recommend that for recreational skiing you should sharpen to between 88° and 90°. 90° is sharp enough for almost all conditions but if it’s really icy try 88°.

World Cup pistes are generally sheet ice so I use an incredible “Snowglide”

edging machine but as this costs over £2000 it is probably a bit extreme for most recreational skiers! A DataWax Get-a-Grip is an easy to use, affordable edging tool that is very portable so you can sharpen your skis in just a few minutes of an evening of a ski holiday. This tool has the option of either 88° or 90° angles so that you can tune your skis for exactly what you need.

Hold the Get-a-grip with the plastic touching the base and the file against

the side edge. Have the file facing so that it cuts as you pull towards you, you don’t need to press too hard. Pull the guide towards you, running in long smooth strokes, keeping the pressure even and the plastic guide flat against the base.

C O N T I N U E S

Repeat until the edge is sharp along the whole length of the ski. Running a diamond stone along both the base and side of the edge will get them super smooth. If it has been rocky it’s worth doing this both before and after filing to get rid of any burrs in the edge.

THIS IS P A G E 57

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

C O N T I N U E D

SKI WAXING, WHY BOTHER? Waxing There is a lot of nonsense and old wives tales about waxing but in essence it is an easy three stage process - prepare the base, apply the wax, get rid of the excess. Done!

The first stage is to ensure that the base of the ski is clean

and dry, that the pores aren’t blocked and that it has some “structure”. The base can be cleaned with a base cleaner /wax remover. To use base cleaner spray it on first then wipe it across the whole ski with a paper towel so that the whole ski is covered. Then, with a fresh paper towel, polish it to remove the base cleaner, you’ll be surprised at how much dirt your skis pick up.

DOUGIE CRAWFORD OFF THE SLOPES...

Next, the base has to be gently rubbed to create the

structure with a brush or structure pad. Always rub from tip to tail using long firm strokes. Structure pads are a much cheaper option than the selection of brushes I use, they add a nice simple structure to the base to get the pores open on the base and get it ready to absorb the wax.

Once the base is ready, you need to apply hot wax and

scrape the ski. Choosing a wax can be complicated as there are various temperature waxes. For racing this is an extremely important decision, but for recreational skiing if you don’t know the likely temperature a universal wax is great. Gently press your chosen wax against the hot waxing iron, dripping the wax onto the ski. Then, iron in the wax until you have a smooth thin layer of wax across the whole surface of the base.

Do this using long smooth strokes from tip to tail, always keep the iron moving or you may damage the ski base. Once this has been achieved leave the ski to cool. I always finish with one long pass along the ski to make the wax as smooth as possible, because this makes scraping easier.

58 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

The next stage is to scrape the ski using a plastic scraper. Remember: the

important wax is already within the base, you are only scraping off the excess.

Hold the scraper with both hands with your index fingers looped over the top outside edge and your thumbs in the middle. Try to apply even pressure across the whole scraper so that it scrapes the full width of the scraper on each pass.

Again try to use long smooth strokes, tip to tail, until you can’t take any more off the ski.

The final stage is to brush the wax to create an almost microscopically

roughened surface. If the surface was perfectly smooth then there would be suction and the ski would “stick”. For racing brushing is a very important stage.

For recreational skiing scraping and then running over the base with a structure pad is sufficient. So wrap a structure pad around your plastic scraper and gently run it along the length of the ski, you don’t need to do this more than once if you have even pressure and it touches the full width of the ski.

So there you have it, for the sake of a few minutes before, during and after

your holiday with some simple equipment you can make your skiing easier, smoother and most importantly more enjoyable.

DataWax can provide you with a special Warren Miller Tour Ski

(or snowboard) Preparation Kit including all the items mentioned here - just visit www.DataWax.com with the promo code WMDC12 for a 20% discount.

WHAT IS FLUORO? n Many ski waxes advertise that they contain ‘fluoro’ (LF - low fluoro and HF high fluoro). n Fluoro

is related to PTFE (Teflon) and is added to waxes to make them smoother and easier to apply as well as making skis faster.

n For

recreational skiing ‘LF’ waxes are best.

WHY SERVICE YOUR GEAR? n Easier

...AND ON!

Turning n Protects your equipment n More enjoyment n Increased control

THIS IS P A G E 59

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

ASK ALCOTT CHARACTERS: JIM ODOIRE PIXELS: PHOTOFARM

WARREN MILLER FILM CREW’S JIM ODOIRE CATCHES UP WITH CHEMMY ALCOTT ON A FLEETING VISIT BACK TO LONDON

SINCE

suffering a career-threatening injury

in a horrific ski crash in 2010, the UK’s #1 skier Chemmy Alcott has defied the odds and battled her way back from injury to resume full-time training in advance of

the forthcoming World Cup circuit this season.

How’s the leg? Within one camp back, I completely forgot about my ‘weak’ leg. Yes, sometimes because of all the metal work it aches post skiing but when I am skiing at speeds of up to 130kph (love all the new GPS gadgets that give us our average speed) it doesn’t even register.

Is there any one piece of equipment or advice that has particularly helped on your road to recovery? Everyone at Third Space medical center. Within a month post crash I was back to satisfying my endorphin addiction by working out with the physio, trainers and in the gyrotonics studio. As well as the Compex muscle stim which worked so well that even after months of non weight bearing, my right leg was still bigger than my left. The Game Ready, ice and compression machine which I plugged into at night which allowed me to rest without hammering painkillers was also integral to my recovery.

When did you start training again and how has it been going over the summer? As some of you maybe aware I took part on Dancing with Ice, which really helped physically and mentally - as well as getting daily physio! It helped my feeling for edges and foot control and also gave me a big distraction when I couldn’t ski. My first ski camp was in May with my boyfriend Dougie Crawford where we were both following the same basic return to snow programme. Within 6 months I am now flying through the air comfortably on 60 meter jumps, hitting fast speeds and pushing the limit again. My expectations of my comeback have been blown out the water since I didn’t expect to be skiing this fast so soon - but that can only be a good thing!

So how are you funding yourself for the coming season? I am massively grateful to my sponsors for putting me in a position so that I can have this last one push for a PB at my 4th Olympics in Sochi. Monarch recently came on board as my head sponsor along with Skiset, Mizuno, Landrover, Atomic and J2Ski. I’m fortunate to have such great brands behind me.

There is still a short fall so I have also set up a donation page on my website where ski fans can get a kind of ‘money can’t buy’ personal experience and help me fulfil my dream.

60 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

What are your plans for this come-back season? This year is about getting the feel back, improving the start numbers and my big goal is to get faster on the flats (always been my nemesis) since both the World Champ hill in 2013 in Schladming and the Olympic track have long sections of fast flats.

With Sochi 2014 on the horizon how do go about preparing long term?

I go out there every day and try to be better, stronger, faster so that in February 2014 I will be at my peak and know that whatever happens I have given it my all.

What are your plans after Sochi? I am going to be a female adventurer/ explorer.

Your other half is the UK’s #1 male skier Dougie Crawford. Are you competitive with each other on the slopes ? Yes always - from skiing, to who can catch the first wave, to who can eat dinner the fastest - the Crawford/ Alcott household is full of games, challenges and after dinner competitions!

Both Dougie and you are ambassadors for Mizuno’s Breath Thermo range. I understand it’s all about an innovative new technology that has helped you with your comeback – tell me about it It’s great working with a company that has so much focus on research and development and as far as technology is concerned the Japanese are years ahead of us - for me, being warm means I’m less likely to be susceptible to injury, can ski for longer so train harder and get stronger - I don’t miss time having to go to the cafe to warm up because of the magic of the thermals using my body moisture to heat me up. Also they are so warm I can use less layers helping me move easier which is imperative in what we do.

Finally, if people want to follow your comeback and help what can they do ? I am a social network busy bee so you can follow me on twitter @Chemmyski or facebook at Team Chemmy and if you are feeling generous and want to support check out the Donation tab on my website www.chemmyalcott.com

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Information correct at the time of going to print. Model shots shown are for illustration purposes only. Models are subject to availability. Nissan Motor (GB) Limited, The Rivers Office Park, Denham Way, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 9YS.

FLOW STATE I S T H I S Y EAR’S WARREN M ILLER M OVIE

EXPERIENCE THE FLOW STATE HERE...

TOWN CINEMA

DATES

Aberdeen

The Belmont

November 27

Aberdeen

The Belmont

December 6

Aviemore

Spey Valley Cinema

December 11

Bo’ness

Hippodrome

November 29

Brighton

Cineworld

December 10

Bristol (Cribbs Causeway)

Vue Cinema

November 13

Didsbury

Cineworld

December 6

Dundee

DCA

December 5

Durham

Gala

December 4

Edinburgh

Dominion

November 26

Edinburgh

Dominion

December 2

Glasgow

Film Theatre

December 3

Inverness

Eden Court

November 22

Inverness

Eden Court

December 12

Leamington Spa

Apollo Cinema

November 28

Leeds (Kirkstall)

Vue Cinema

December 4

London (West End - Gala Night)

Vue Cinema

November 15

London (Fulham)

Vue Cinema

November 26

London (Shepherd’s Bush)

Vue Cinema

December 6

London (Wimbledon)

Ski Club of GB

December 7

London (West End)

Vue Cinema

December 12

London (West End)

Vue Cinema

December 13

Nottingham

Cineworld

December 5

Oxford

Ultimate Picture Palace

November 12

Penrith

Rheged Centre

November 29

Perth

Concert Hall

December 4

Poole

Lighthouse

January 10

Reading

Vue Cinema

November 27

Sheffield

Vue Cinema

December 5

Southampton

Cineworld

December 11

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64 I S T H I S P A G E

THIS YEAR’ S WARREN MILLER MOVIE IS FLOW STATE

THE TOUR DATES “IF YOU DON’T GO THIS YEAR YOU’LL BE ONE YEAR OLDER WHEN YOU DO.”

WARREN MILLER

PIXELS: ALEX WITKOWICZ

T H I S I S PAGE 65

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Information correct at the time of going to print. Model shots shown are for illustration purposes only. Models are subject to availability. Nissan Motor (GB) Limited, The Rivers Office Park, Denham Way, Rickmansworth, Hertfordshire WD3 9YS.