After a brief introduction to snow chains we departed Bury St
Edmonds TAC ahead of schedule (A TA thing). We made good time on our travels
despite the constant downpour of rain and arrived safely at the Euro Tunnel
crossing 3 hours later. We had a few rest stops whilst travelling through Europe
mainly to change drivers but also to let us passengers relieve the pain in our
derrières. We arrived in Neustift, Austria around midday, unfortunately never
finding the elusive McDonalds in Rammstein - much to the SSM’s disappointment.
On arrival Capt Smith gave us an exercise briefing that really
got the group excited about the week ahead., We were then issued with our ski
equipment and clothing before being shown our rooms. Day one was quite nerve
racking for many of us as this was the first time we had ever been on ski’s
and the weather conditions were quite poor. However we had plenty of enthusiasm
and our ski instructors soon showed themselves to be excellent. There were quite
a few spills and interesting stopping styles demonstrated on the first day but
anybody who fell over was helped up, brushed down and got back on with the task
in hand (but only after photographic evidence was recorded on camera).
One thing we all managed to embrace fully was the wonderful
tradition of Après Ski. The Umbrella Bar was the perfect way to end a hard day
of skiing and some of us even had enough energy left to do a bit of dancing.
Driving conditions were pretty poor all week and one trip back is particularly
memorable because there had been heavy snow during the day and after putting on
snow chains the normal 30min journey took 2hrs – we managed to arrive back at
the accommodation thanks to the conscientiousness and talents of the female
driver!
On the Wednesday night everybody went into town and had dinner
at the Pizzeria followed by drinks in the local bar. The food and service were
excellent which made for a fantastic atmosphere and the sharing of the week’s
stories so far. Midweek also saw the weather improve and there was a spectacular
the view of the peaks from the top of the Stubai Glacier was truly amazing. Alas
it didn’t last and Friday saw heavy snow, strong winds and virtually zero
visibility. Despite this the beginners all managed to pass their B.S.P
assessments, even though the snow was up to our shins, waists for some of us!.
It was a wonderful feeling once we had passed, being let loose on the slopes in
groups of three without supervision and our confidence increased almost
immediately.
Friday Night’s entertainment was Tobogganing. This proved
interesting!! It involved a wooden sledge and a very icy track (at least we
think it was a track). Once we had all had a stiff drink at the bar (for the
nerves of course) we set off on our way. Carnage ensued and people battled to
keep control and stay on track as best they could until they found the next bar!
Luckily for the insurance company we all made it safely to the bottom – one
way or another.
On our final day of skiing, small groups split off to do their
favourite runs, a few quite courageously skied off the mountain with the
Instructors and the other experienced members of the group whilst some of us
stuck to the faithful Blue 7 run that we had come to love. That evening we
handed back all of our equipment and loaded the vehicles ready for an early
departure the following morning. We then enjoyed a fabulous BBQ thanks to Howie
and Franziska. It was an amazing trip and I would encourage everyone else to
seriously consider taking up this opportunity if it is available in the future.
Thanks must go to several agencies including the Ulysses Trust for assisting
with funding, without such financial support the cost to individuals would be
far higher than it is – thanks.
