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Aspiring freestyle skiers and snowboarders, what better way to spend a weekend than with an Olympian working on halfpipe and terrain park skills in the fresh snow and sunshine? On a long weekend in early February, ten people were doing just that at the Aomori Spring Freestyle Camp, with snowboard Olympian Katie Tsuyuki – and they had an amazing time!
The Riders
We had an international crowd – from USA, Thailand, UK, Australia and New Zealand – all looking to reach different goals. Our groups got right to work safely and efficiently moving toward their targets.
coaching skiers and snowboarders at freestyle camp
halfpipe at Aomori Spring with view of Mt Iwaki
Terrain Park & Pipe
Our park & pipe designers Development Snowparks had the slopestyle and halfpipe courses primed for the camp. The slopestyle park had new rails, boxes and good sized jumps for learning, plus well-shaped large-medium jumps. The halfpipe was at a full seven meters or twenty two feet, one of the biggest halfpipes in Japan. For halfpipe training our guests had VIP treatment being shuttled on a snowmobile up to the top of the pipe.
The camp also included lunches – Aomori Spring’s Ramen House, overlooking the halfpipe and Mt Iwake – was a favourite spot for the group!
Katie’s Talk About Passion
On Saturday night Katie gave a brilliant lecture about how passion helped her get to the 2014 Sochi Olympics and she shared how others can use her tactics to reach their life goals. This event was so gravitational it was also attended by hotel staff and resort guests.
snowboarder learning boardslide on box at freestyle camp
Goals Reached
By Sunday afternoon everyone had reached their desired objectives, some riders even accomplished beyond expectations. Mostly all the attendees got more than they imagined as the three days were very educational but still loads of fun. To top it off everyone went home with goodie bags, a tricks and tips booklet and a report card to remind them what to work on after the camp.
The camp ended with smiles, high fives and powder slashes… the best ending to an awesome three days of progression.
Want some of the action?
We are running two day Freestyle Snowboard Coaching Sessions for the last three weekends of March. Check out details on our Facebook Events Page.
If you’re ready to take things to an even higher level, the week-long Aomori Spring Pro Camp may be the thing for you! More details here.