Message #21606

[beastieboy]

"Patrolers seem to ski in a like manner: very controlled, very stable, constantly checking out what's going on with others. Never pushing the limits like jibbers or racers."

Hi LP,

This touches on a conversation that Liam and I were having a couple of weeks ago - a red coat with a cross on it makes you less likely to want to embarrass yourself by wiping out in front of a crowd (for example under the liftline).  In addition there is a feeling of visibility and a need to set a good example.  A lot of us ski fairly aggressively on bump and tree runs, but try to make really sure that we don't put anyone at risk by skiing fast around other people. 

In addition of course, the patrolling population is probably a little more 'mature' than the general skiing public.  It takes longer to recover after a bad crash, so that is a deterrent to risky behavior as well!

Another great time this weekend!  Hopefully the spring skiing will last well into April.