Massive storms, deep snow, and high avalanche hazard keep the Masters grounded for the weekend.
Snowbird, UT
January 24, 2010



The North Face Masters first tour stop for the 2010 season has been postponed for the second day in a row after the event venue was judged unsafe for riders by the ski patrol. After an epic week of storms and accumulations topping five feet, the anxious athletes had to put themselves on hold yet again. Numerous avalanches plagued the slopes of upper Peruvian Gulch, which houses both Silver Fox and Baldy, the qualifier and final venues for this year’s competition. Even with extensive efforts performed by the brave souls of the Snowbird Ski Patrol, the danger proved too high to allow anyone in the area. A significant slide yesterday came within feet of plowing over the uninhabited judges tent at the bottom of Silver Fox. Talking with competitor Ashley Persan, who was slated to run first for the women, revealed a feeling of relief mixed with anticipation. “ I am so excited to ride in my first Masters, but I don’t want to be the first person jumping around out there when the conditions are so sketchy,” said Ashley.

Despite the grim outlook, the athletes took the opportunity to ski some of the best powder in the world. Travis Rice and Rob Kingwill, two of Jackson Hole’s finest, were spotted slaying the steep and deep. The smiles and hoots showed they weren’t too disappointed with how things turned out.

As the skies begin to clear this afternoon and evening, a bit of better weather is on the menu for tomorrow. If the conditions hold and the snow stabilizes, the Masters will begin Monday the 25th.