realskiers

Hey Jim...for sure it's been a while since I've been back and all things change.

Yup Max...that a series of pictures through the years. The ones (blue jacket) from the Clendenin site were from 2 ski seasons ago in Chile performing edging drills.

and still evoloving! g

A few thoughts about Gary's hybird skiing. When I first met Gary in Jackson Hole (now close to 5 years ago), he was wearing a PMTS.org patch on his ski jacket. He was the first person I ever discussed PMTS with on a face to face basis. And, he and Alice actually had been to Harald's camps! Whoo, I'm impressed. He just made these big GS turns and Alice was not far behind. He had the technique basics down pretty well.

My sense is that Gary is not technique focused, he's more about enjoying the mountain and the moment, especially when skiing with friends. Early PMTS, that is " lift and tip", was much less complex than the deep flexing movements advocated by Harald today. Looking at the Clendenin site photo's of Gary, a tall, centered stance with hands to the front and side are clearly visible. That's a very comfortable position and a lot of really good skiing can be done, maybe not very high edge skiing, but, serviceable over the whole mountain. Works for him, works for Alice.

I've stated many times, that Clendenin's four word turn sequence, is similar to simplified, brushed PMTS movements taught by Harald. For example, use of little toe edge, tipping movements, skis close together. I have to think that much of Gary and Alice's improvement is attributable to being under the watchful eye of a capable instructor, recently that's been John, and, getting the feedback needed to improve. They brought good technique. plus passion for improving into the training, and, just built up skills from that level.

Above all, Gary has clarity in what he wants from his skiing. Too often, in forums, perhaps we argue that our clarity should be adopted by others. What I will testify to is that Gary has a great time when he skis. More than a little rubs off on me when we get to ski together.