Message #5344

[jim-ratliff]

Unfortunately, Ron and Gary and Midwife have all seen me ski, so they are aware of my very real limitations.  I believe that PMTS provides the skills and tools to build a very good foundation. 

But it is interesting that:
1. John Clendenin (who is PMTS black certified) has a slightly different technique for skiing bumps; and
2. The DesLauriers (sp??) brothers are either PMTS certified or similar, but I have heard that they teach a little something more in their all-mountain camp; and
3. Gary Cassara, who has a PMTS patch on his jacket uses a little bit more/less/different than strictly PMTS in his skiing.

Now, I've never been to either of the camps above, but my conclusion is that knowing PMTS will make you a better skier; but it's also good to remember that our desire is to enjoy the skiing experience and for me that allows room for other techniques (or even poor technique while I learn).  I don't imagine I'll ever be able to ski bumps like either Harald or John (or Gary or Ron), but I can still enjoy getting outdoors and playing.