On Saturday, September 30, Sport Aberdeen’s Adventure
Aberdeen Snowsports Centre played host to “The Drop In” – a community hub event
designed to celebrate and promote snowsports in the north east.
Organised collectively by the community sports hub in
Garthdee, The Drop In offered something for all levels and abilities, with all
sessions priced at only £5 to break down the barrier of price.
More than 110 people were introduced to snowsports for the
first time through beginner taster sessions – approximately 70 tried skiing and
30 tried snowboarding.
The Drop In hosted club-led open sessions aimed at more
experienced individuals, consisting of club members and coaches from Grampian
Snowsports Club and Aberdeen Snowsports Club who were on hand to deliver tips, tricks
and guidance on various disciplines from racing to freestyle and everything in
between.
An impressive 43 contenders aged from 6 to 48 years old
took part in the “Drop In Jam” – a relaxed and fun competition with prizes for
freestyle and time-trial categories. This was recognised as the best attended
ski and snowboard freestyle event in Scotland this year, receiving recognition
from Snowsports Scotland.
Prizes were provided by local businesses Craigdon Mountain Sports, Boarderline Store, Ride Coffee House and The Lecht for those who competed in the Drop In Jam. Prizes included snowsports equipment including t-shirts, hoodies, ski goggles, a rucksack, mountain ski gloves and loads of stickers.
To add to the excitement, DJ Kidproquo from the WabLab radio show provided music all day at the event, as well as local business ABERDAM Dutch Fries with its scran van for those working up an appetite.
Since the event, 17 individuals have signed up to a coached programme to continue with weekly lessons and several others have engaged in private lessons.
Mike Gifford, Adventure Aberdeen Manager, said: “It was great to see a range of organisations collaborating together to create a real community spirit and buzz at our Adventure Aberdeen Snowsports Centre.
“The atmosphere at the venue and around the slopes on the day was immense, and I hope this will be the catalyst for a wave of energy and enthusiasm for snowsports in Aberdeen.
“Thanks to the organisations mentioned who generously donated prizes for the Drop In Jam, and to our staff for working hard to make the event a success.
“We hope to continue the positive relationships with partner clubs and other organisations, and we look forward to the next event. Watch this space!”