The Snow Centre launches Rookie Freestyle Camp for youngsters

03 Aug 2010

The Snow Centre’s Rookie Freestyle Camps are the perfect way to introduce your young ones to the world of freestyle while keeping them entertained during the long summer break. Advanced young snowboarders (level 6 and above) are invited to get creative on the slopes, learning freestyle fundamentals such as performing tricks on kickers and rails, in a safe and controlled environment with qualified BASI instructors.

Camp members will ease into the activity, learning tricks on flat land to develop confidence, awareness and balance. They will make use of natural snow terrain such as moguls and bumps to develop confidence in jumping, before progressing to a specially designed Rookie Freestyle Park where they will start to perform basic tricks on raised features such as rails, boxes and kickers.

The Snow Centre, based in Hemel Hempstead, boasts a BASI Centre of Excellence Status making it the most highly qualified snowsports school in the south of England. Children of all abilities are catered for and they are guaranteed to receive world class coaching from some of the best instructors this side of the Alps.

 

Cool down the kids this Summer

27 Jul 2010

As the old wives tale suggests, rain on St. Swithin’s day signals downpours for forty days, but the Great British summer needn’t be a washout for families. The Snow Centre’s summer courses are the perfect way to keep youngsters of all ages and abilities entertained and active during the school holidays, whatever the weather.

Adrenaline seeking youngsters can join the ranks of snowboard legend Shaun Wright and free skiing champion Jon Olson in being part of the freestyle phenomenon. The Rookie Freestyle Camp invites advanced youngsters (level 6 and above) to get creative on the slopes, learning freestyle fundamentals such as performing tricks on kickers and rails, in a safe and controlled environment with qualified BASI instructors.

Camp members will ease into the activity, learning tricks on flat land to develop confidence, awareness and balance. They will make use of natural snow terrain such as moguls and bumps to develop confidence in jumping, before progressing to a specially designed Rookie Freestyle Park where they will start to perform basic tricks on raised features such as rails, boxes and kickers.

The Ski Performance Holiday Course is designed for advanced youngsters (level 6 and above) interested in developing their technical skiing skills. Attendees will learn how to ski slalom and moguls while developing carving turns, adapting to variable terrain and snow conditions on the slope.

There are also a number of options for beginners. Four year old children can learn to ski in a relaxed environment while playing in the snow; five and six-year-olds can enjoy a four day skiing course with one hour of skiing per day; and seven to 16-year-olds can chose between a four day skiing or snowboard course, receiving eight hours of tuition over the four days.

 

Hemel hopeful gains dream ski sponsorship deal

22 Jul 2010

A Hemel Hempstead based snowsports worker has landed a dream sponsorship deal with ski manufacturer Atomic, becoming part of the prestigious Atomic UK Freeski team.

18-year-old Ross Welch, who lives on Neptune Drive in Hemel Hemptead, works part time as a rental technician at The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead and developed an interest in freestyle skiing after becoming a regular on the facility’s slopes during his time off. After reaching the British Snow Tour Championships in Switzerland within a year of pursuing the sport, he is now a fully fledged member of the Atomic UK Freeski team and one of only four Atomic sponsored riders in the UK.

Since officially joining the team in May, Ross has entered a number of high profile competitions, enjoying early success such as finishing in 3rd place at the Milton Keynes Big Air Competition. His next challenge will be his first international trip as part of the team in the new year.

Ross added: “The last couple of months have been a roller coaster ride for me and it’s amazing that, after only one year of freeskiing, I have been lucky enough to find such a high profile sponsor. The Atomic team are amazing and I feel extremely privileged to have this opportunity. I am looking forward to my first international trip as part of the team in the new year and, with lots of practice, I’m sure I will continue to impress.

“I’m grateful to The Snow Centre for all of their support, as without them none of this would have been possible - from offering me my job in the first place, to helping me develop my skills to hosting the amazing freestyle sessions that have allowed me to experiment and grow. As a result of my success, they have gone on to develop a Rookie Freestyle Camp to help other enthusiasts get in to the sport at a young age.”

Freeskiing is a variety of alpine skiing that involves the use of advanced tricks, jumps, and terrain park features, such as rails, boxes, jibs, or other obstacles. The Snow Centre’s dedicated freestyle night, Park and Ride, runs every Friday evening and limited freestyle features are also available on Tuesday and Thursday evening.

 

The Snow Centre cools down the Capital with a chilly performance

30 Jun 2010

To mark the end of the first week of Summer, Austrian-themed performers have taken to the streets of London  dressed in full snowsports attire, braving the sweltering heat and entertaining crowds of commuters with their frosty antics. After the weekend’s heatwave culminated in the hottest day of the year on Sunday, The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead is inviting sweaty commuters to cool down on its real snow slope and take a break from the relentless heat of the City.

After traversing Westminster Bridge and causing a stir at the Houses of Parliament, the performance artists delighted commuters and tourists with traditional Austrian song and dance, hitting the stuffy tube lines to sweat it out at busy locations for the rest of the day.

The Snow Centre is uniquely twinned with the Ötztal region of Austria, a popular snowsports destination, enabling UK enthusiasts the chance to benefit from the latest Alpine coaching techniques and take advantage of exclusive holiday and training deals. With the best snow this side of the Alps and a snowsports school accredited with BASI Centre of Excellence status, The Snow Centre offers the perfect place to train before hitting the slopes.

Pete Gillespie, director of snowsports at The Snow Centre, said: “It looks as if the UK is gearing up for a scorching Summer, but commuters needn’t be hot and bothered all the time as it snows almost every day at The Snow Centre. With the best snow this side of the Alps, it’s the perfect place to escape the humidity of the city.

“We have a strong relationship with the Ötztal region in Austria and the culture and expertise found in the region has a strong influence on what we do. As well as creating an ironic and entertaining performance, we wanted to celebrate this partnership and I think it went down a storm with London’s busy commuters.”

 

Maximise your slope time with The Snow Centre’s summer offers

11 Jun 2010

The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead is gearing up for an offer-packed Summer, giving snowsports enthusiasts the chance to keep their snow legs during the off season without breaking the bank.

To celebrate the success of the For Boarders By Boarders (FBBB) Summer tour event, freestyle fanatics can now enjoy four hours for £35 or two hours for £25 every Friday throughout June, July and August. Budding young boarders can enjoy the excitement of the park too, with junior passes going at £25 for four hours and £20 for two hours.

Park and Ride, The Snow Centre’s dedicated freestyle night, continues to push the boundaries of indoor freestyle, with its park shapers working tirelessly to provide the most adventurous and progressive park plans yet. Keep an eye on the Hemel Freestyle Facebook page for all the latest news, photos, videos and park plans.

Those that would prefer to hone their ski or snowboard skills on a smooth, crystal white slope can enjoy two hours for the price of one on recreational lift passes from Monday through to Thursday over the same period.

Pete Gillespie, director of snowsports at The Snow Centre, said: “The summer months needn’t be about sitting around baking in the sun, as it snows almost every day at The Snow Centre. If you’re sitting at home counting down the months till the next winter season, then we are offering you the chance to keep your body active and your skills sharp at a heavily discounted price.”

 

Teams Required to Conquer Mountain in... Hemel Hempstead!

07 Jun 2010

The Snow Centre, Britain’s premier indoor snowsports destination, is offering businesses the chance to embark on one of its new and unique team building activities that will nurture team spirit as well as other traits important in the world of business.

The highlight of The Snow Centre’s corporate offering is ‘The Mountain Challenge’, the first full day team building experience to be offered by a UK-based indoor snowsports facility. The Mountain Challenge has been developed by instructors Steve Cross and Greg Price.

Prior to becoming an instructor at The Snow Centre, Steve owned his own company in the events sector for 12 years before moving into the team building arena, where he gained a wealth of experience developing and implementing programmes for an impressive list of corporate clients. Former City worker Greg joined The Snow Centre as an instructor in April 2009, after being made redundant from a £70k job with a global technology company as a result of the economic climate. Their shared knowledge of business, team building and the corporate psyche has been instrumental in ensuring that The Mountain Challenge is relevant and useful to the groups that tackle it.

Visitors are split into teams and given their own ‘local’ mountain guide to help them scale The Snow Centre’s slope. Teams have to devise the best route in the quickest time to reach the summit and raise a flag. Before the climb, a series of challenges are undertaken in order to raise the necessary funds to compete in the expedition.

Greg Price, snowsport instructor at The Snow Centre, said: “When Steve came up with the idea we all knew we were on to a winner and from then onwards we have been working hard to develop a corporate offering that we can be proud of. A lot of work has been put into making The Mountain Challenge as rewarding and beneficial as possible to all businesses that take part.

“The Snow Centre is little over 20 minutes by rail from central London and is the closest indoor snowsports facility to the City. Hemel Hempstead is the perfect location to bring your team to escape the hustle and bustle of the Capital and have a memorable experience that everyone will talk about for weeks.”

The Mountain Challenge can be undertaken by a group as small as 10 or as large as 40. Individuals are required to battle against the elements as they solve problems, work together as a team and of course, have fun. It will develop team working skills, creativity, lateral thinking, negotiation, budgeting and successful project management. Priced at £135 + VAT per person, the package can be tailored to suit a businesses’ individual requirements.

In addition, The Snow Centre offers a skiing World Cup Slalom Challenge, priced at £40 + VAT per person; teams are given specialist training for 30 minutes and then compete against other teams and the clock to find out who’s the leader of the pack!

The Snow Centre also offers a conferencing experience that is convenient and unique. Hire of the Centre’s Solden and Columbia suites includes: free car parking, wireless internet access and a buffet lunch, all with fantastic views overlooking the slope.

For more information about The Snow Centre’s corporate packages and facilities, call 0845 258 9000 and ask to speak to the Corporate Team who will be delighted to help tailor a package that works for your business.

 

Great value Easter courses at The Snow Centre

25 Mar 2010

Have you ever wondered whether your son or daughter has what it takes to become one of the stars of the Winter Olympics, traversing crystal white slopes with the crowd chanting their name? The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead is inviting budding young skiers and snowboarders to ditch the chocolate this Easter and wrap up for a holiday course to remember.

With the Vancouver Winter Olympics fresh in the minds of the nation’s young winter sports fans, the real snow slope is offering four day Easter courses in skiing and snowboarding, aimed at four different age brackets: four year-olds, five to six year-olds, seven to ten-years-olds and 11 to 16-year-olds.

Skiing courses for four, five and six-year-olds aim to give youngsters a taste of the slopes, with a loosely structured learning plan and a relaxed environment. The emphasis is on fun rather than developing technical prowess and students will develop basic skills such as balance and coordination.

Skiing and snowboarding courses for ages seven upwards will give students a good all round introduction to the sports and will be more focused on developing technical skills. Starting with the basics of equipment use, movement and balance, advanced students will learn to become more versatile on the slopes, developing skills such as turning and speed control.

Pete Gillespie, director of snowsports at The Snow Centre, said: “With winter sports being in the spotlight recently, we have seen a big increase in enquiries for children’s lessons. As a result we are offering budding young snowsports enthusiasts the chance to spend part of their Easter break following in the footsteps of their heroes on the best snow this side of the Alps.

“The courses are aimed at a variety of ages and levels of proficiency, so whether you are an absolute beginner or wannabe pro, there will be something for you. We are even offering a new course for four-year-olds which aims to get youngsters used to the snow environment at their own pace.”

Courses start from £60, with the first four day session running from 5 to 9 April and the second from 12 to 16 April. Parents needn’t worry about providing food, as they can pre-order packed lunches for their child from The Edge café.

 

The Snow Centre and DSUK forge partnership of paralympic proportions

22 Mar 2010

With the 2010 Winter Paralympics underway, The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead has forged a unique partnership with Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK) to improve its adaptive snowsports services and offer ongoing support to the charity.

DSUK have established an adaptive snowsports school at The Snow Centre, which will work in tandem with the centre’s own school, a BASI Centre of Excellence, to provide access to snowsports for people with any disability. DSUK provides specialist adaptive equipment and training to enable skiers with disabilities to take part in snowsports alongside able bodied skiers.

Adaptive Snowsports can benefit the individual in many ways including increased confidence, independence, self-esteem as well as physical and cognitive development. With both organisations seeking to make snowsports accessible to all, the school will work with enthusiasts at all levels, from recreational skiers right through to elite competitors.

The Snow Centre will continue to support the British Paralympic Team – particularly Tim Farr and Jane Sowerby, who train there in the off season to keep snow contact- and will provide financial support to the charity from fund-raising events throughout the year.

Pete Gillespie, director of snowsports at The Snow Centre, said: “We are delighted to announce the partnership with DSUK and get the adaptive snowsports school up and running. Since both of us share professional links with BASI and the notion that snowsports should be for all, the partnership makes perfect sense.

“As a result, we now have a full range of adaptive equipment and qualified instructors in house, so I’d urge anyone with a disability and an interest in snowsports to come down and give it a try.”

Sophie Wood, National Co-ordinator and Events Fundraiser at DSUK, said: “We have always had a very strong relationship with The Snow Centre, so we are delighted to make the partnership official. Apart from having great facilities and top quality snow, they are very accommodating to our needs and share our ethos.

“Together, we are looking forward to providing a first class facility for the disabled community to access  snowsports’’.

For more information or to book a lesson, visit www.thesnowcentre.com or call 0845 258 9000.

 

Winner of Snowboard Design Competition Unveiled

21 Dec 2009

A competition for Snowboard enthusiasts has given one lucky individual the chance to have their own bespoke snowboard created.

Sarah Yates has beaten off over fifty shortlisted entrants in the competition launched by The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead, and HEAD Snowboards. Her intricate bird-like design, complete with additional side boards, particularly stood out to the judges as a striking, original creation.

Sarah will see her design transformed into a one-of-a kind HEAD Transit snowboard and receive a pocketful of freestyle passes for The Snow Centre to put it through its paces.

Entrants were encouraged to showcase originality as well as design proficiency, laying down the most kaleidoscopic range of colours, shapes and text they could dream up. Judging the competition were The Snow Centre’s director of snowsports Pete Gillespie, the design crew at the fiendishly hip free publication, Don’t Panic and former Olympic half pipe rider Dan Wakeham.

Pete Gillespie, director of snowsports at The Snow Centre, said: “It was a difficult decision to make, but in the end it was Sarah’s board that really shone through. Artwork like this is not typically found in the freestyle world, which tends to favour simple, bold designs, but it was a refreshing change to see something so intricate and detailed.”

Matt Humphreys, winter sports category manager at HEAD, added: “It was by no means a runaway victory, and we were split more or less fifty fifty at HEAD between this and another design. However, it was the astounding level of detail that made Sarah’s design stand out. Clearly she invested a lot of time, effort and thought into her work, and the side boards were a really nice added extra.”

 

Freestyle Film Competition Winner Unveiled

15 Dec 2009

A video competition to become the next Warren Miller of the snowsports world has unveiled its winning entry.

35-year-old Jools Smith has beaten off stiff opposition to win a competition launched by The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead, to see who could create the best freestyle video this side of the Alps. As well as becoming the talk of the slopes, Joe’s managed to bag himself a freestyle season pass at The Snow Centre worth over £1,500.

Another season pass is still up for grabs for the flick that generates the most Youtube hits by Christmas Eve, so if you haven’t checked out the entries yet, visit www.youtube.com/thesnowcentre

Entrants were encouraged to showcase their originality and flair, just like on the slopes, riding the cream of the park’s features and capturing the best tricks riders had to offer. Judging the films were The Snow Centre’s director of snowsports Pete Gillespie, The Snow Centre’s park shapers and diggers with attitude, The DWA, and renowned snowsports film maker Gendle from Lockdown Projects.

Gendle added: “While all the films managed to capture some great footage, Jools’s piece stood out technically. The variety of angle’s he captures makes for lively and interesting viewing and he was the only film maker that managed to get footage while riding himself, a very difficult skill to master.

Pete Gillespie added: “All the films were made on the DC demo night, so as you can expect the quality of the riding was exceptional. What particularly impressed me about Jools’s film, as well the quality of his handiwork, was that he really managed to capture the fun of the occasion. A freestyle night is as much about goofing around with your peers as it is about pulling off killer moves, and his video really reflects this.

 

Freestyle Film Entries Go Live On Web

11 Dec 2009

A video competition to become the next Warren Miller of the snowsports world has unveiled its shortlist.

The freestyle films are the result of a competition launched by The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead, to see who could create the best freestyle video this side of the Alps. Season freestyle passes worth over £1,500 are up for grabs for the best overall video and the flick that generates the most YouTube hits.

Entrants were encouraged to showcase their originality and flair, just like on the slopes, riding the cream of the park’s features and capturing the best tricks riders have to offer. Judging the films will be The Snow Centre’s director of snowsports Pete Gillespie, The Snow Centre’s park shapers and diggers with attitude, The DWA, and renowned snowsports film maker Gendle from Lockdown Projects.

Pete Gillespie, director of snowsports at The Snow Centre, added “The quality of filming and editing the entrants have showcased has exceeded all of our expectations. We are in the process of judging the best video, but it’s up to the filmmakers to publicise their work online to win the ‘most hits’ category.

“So if you’re into freestyle, filmmaking or both, please show your support by visiting our YouTube channel to check out and comment on the videos.”

To see the entries visit The Snow Centre’s dedicated YouTube channel http://www.youtube.com/thesnowcentre

 

A Winter Wonderland hits The Snow Centre

17 Nov 2009

A magical winter wonderland fit for Father Christmas and his elves has appeared on the snow slopes of a local snowsports centre.

The Snow Centre, based in Hemel Hempstead, has launched its Santa’s Cabin in time for the festive season, replete with an authentic snow garden including a ten foot snowman, real snow slide and sledges for children and parents to enjoy.

Families wishing to entertain the children during the festive season can visit the centre, where children are able to meet Santa and his helpers in the cabin, receive a personalised gift from the man himself and have a festive photograph taken to savour the memory.

A visit costs £8 for a 15 minute experience, which includes a play in the Snow Garden, a visit with Santa and an age appropriate gift. The experience takes place in real snow and therefore warm outdoor clothing, gloves, hats and appropriate footwear are required.

Elise Hyslop added “Visiting The Snow Centre’s winter wonderland is a great way to show your children what Christmas is all about while getting yourself in the Christmas spirit at the same time. Whether playing under our ten foot Snowman, shooting down our real snow slide, or being pulled along on one of our sledges, there’s plenty to keep the little ones occupied while waiting for their personal visit with Santa.”

For more information or to book, visit www.thesnowcentre.com or call 0845 258 9000.

 

Dan Wakeham Joins Judging Panel for Snowboard Design Competition

11 Nov 2009

Half-pipe specialist Dan Wakeham, the highest ranked UK male snowboarder and the first British male snowboarder to compete in the winter Olympics in 2006, has joined the judging panel for a competition where designers are invited to have their dream snowboard turned into a reality.

The UK’s premiere snowsports centre, The Snow Centre, based in Hemel Hempstead, and HEAD Snowboards have teamed up to launch a competition for designers to create the most outrageous snowboard design yet. The winner will see their creation transformed into a one of a kind HEAD Transit snowboard along with a pocketful of freestyle passes or lessons to put it through its paces on the best snow this side of the Alps.

Entrants are encouraged to showcase originality as well as design proficiency, laying down the most kaleidoscopic range of colours, shapes and text they can dream up. Judging the competition will be The Snow Centre’s director of snowsports Pete Gillespie, The Snow Centre’s park shapers and diggers with attitude, The DWA, and the design possy at the fiendishly hip free publication, Don’t Panic.

All competition details can be found at www.thesnowcentre.com and entrants must register at freestyle@finncomms.com to take part.

 

Design Your Dream Board!

03 Nov 2009

Designers are invited to enter a competition to have their dream snowboard design turned into a reality.

The UK’s premiere snowsports centre, The Snow Centre, based in Hemel Hempstead, and HEAD Snowboards have teamed up to launch a competition for designers to create the most outrageous snowboard design yet. The winner will see their creation transformed into a one of a kind HEAD Transit snowboard along with a pocketful of freestyle passes or lessons to put it through its paces on the best snow this side of the Alps.

Entrants are encouraged to showcase originality as well as design proficiency, laying down the most kaleidoscopic range of colours, shapes and text they can dream up. Judging the competition will be The Snow Centre’s director of snowsports Pete Gillespie, The Snow Centre’s park shapers and diggers with attitude, The DWA, and the design possy at the fiendishly hip free publication, Don’t Panic.

Pete Gillespie, Director of snow sports at The Snow Centre, added “The Snow Centre has the fastest growing freestyle night – Park and Ride – in the UK with some amazing features to max out on each week. We’re really excited to see what other worldly creations the design community can come up with to create the deadliest of boards going. Snowboarding has always had a close relationship with design and we’re hoping this comp unearths the best Britain has to offer.

All competition details can be found at www.thesnowcentre.com and entrants must register at freestyle@finncomms.com to take part.

 

Cameras, Snow Centre, Action!

01 Oct 2009

Freestyle fanatics are invited to enter a competition to become the next Warren Miller of the snow sports world.

This Friday, The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead is launching a competition to see who can create the best freestyle video this side of the Alps. Season freestyle passes worth over £1,500 are up for grabs for the best overall video and the flick that generates the most YouTube hits.

Entrants are encouraged to showcase their originality and flair, just like on the slopes, riding the cream of the park’s features and capturing the best tricks riders have to offer. Judging the films will be The Snow Centre’s director of snowsports Pete Gillespie, The Snow Centre’s park shapers and diggers with attitude, The DWA, and renowned snowsports film maker Gendle from Lockdown Projects.

Pete Gillespie, said: “We are really looking forward to seeing the videos that our freestyle community produces. The quality of riding at the park is getting more and more extreme each week and we can’t wait to capture some of the UK’s best talent on film for the rest of the world to enjoy.”

All competition details can be found at www.thesnowcentre.com and entrants must register at freestyle@finncomms.com to take part.

 

Indoor Snow Centre Backs Brit at Winter Olympics

01 Oct 2009

The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead, is supporting Britain’s number one male Alpine Skier, Ed Drake in his Olympic bid with special fundraising event.

As the 2010 Winter Olympics draw closer, The Snow Centre has teamed up with ski holiday expert Scott Dunn to host a fundraising evening on 7 October to raise money for Britain’s best hope of Olympic gold.

Ed Drake, 23, is a full time member of the British team and is currently ranked sixth in the world  in his age group having won the prestigious 2009 Giant Slalom and Super G title.

Ed said: “I want to be an Olympian and ultimately my main goal is to win. I’ve been dreaming of taking part since I started racing, but it wouldn’t be possible without backing.”

The event will see a host of activities including live demonstrations, appearances from top ski-sports personalities and chances to win top holiday prizes.

Official sponsor, Scott Dunn, said: “The fundraising evening is a great way to gather support for Ed’s Olympic bid. Backing him for the Olympics is an important cause but to encourage donations we’ve set up a raffle to win a luxury holiday. Anyone interested in winning the prize and helping Britain get to the Olympics should log on to www.scottdunn.com/eddrake.”

 

Help Britain Win Gold at Winter Olympics

30 Sep 2009

We might be dreading the freeze descending on the UK, but one person looking forward to winter is Britain’s number one male Alpine Skier, Ed Drake.

As the 2010 Winter Olympics draw closer, the Snow Centre at Hemel Hempstead is supporting Ed Drake with a fundraising evening on 7 October.

Ed’s official sponsor ski holiday experts Scott Dunn will be hosting the evening which will involve a slalom racing demonstration, prizes and a meet and greet with Ed.

Ed first took to the slopes when he was three and twenty years later he has proven his early foray onto the snow wasn’t in vain when he won the 2009 title in the Giant Slalom and Super G. He is ranked sixth in the world for his age group and in the top 50 overall. The Snow Centre and Scott Dunn are keen to see Ed achieve his dream of becoming an Olympic gold medallist.

If you’d like to support Ed’s Olympic bid and be in with a chance of winning a luxury Scott Dunn holiday visit www.scottdunn.com/eddrake for details on purchasing a raffle ticket online.

 

The Snow Leopard Challenge

10 Aug 2009

Winter-loving Brits don’t let a little thing called summer stand in the way of them getting their snow fix.

Snow enthusiasts will head to The Snow Centre this Saturday in their droves to hit the slopes to raise money for charity and to support Kwame Nkrumah-Acheampong AKA The Snowleopard’s in his preparation for the Vancouver Winter Olympics.

The Snow Centre and The Snow Leopard, Ghana’s first and only athlete to qualify for a Winter Olympic Games, are hosting The Snow Leopard Challenge, an annual racing event that aims to raise over £3,000 for its nominated charities.

Since its launch four years ago, the competition has raised over £6000 toward The Snowleopard Trust, a charity that provides free ski lessons to local children who would not otherwise have the opportunity to try the sport, and toward supporting Kwame’s ski race training and Olympic preparation. This year, the challenge will also support two additional charities, The Sabre Trust and The Snow Camp.

Kwame Nkrumah-Acheampong, AKA The Snow Leopard, said: “I am really looking forward to Saturday’s event and we are expecting a great turn-out. The facilities and race conditions at The Snow Centre are just perfect so it is set to be a great evening of skiing, snowboarding and entertainment. We intend to share a lot of laughs along the way to reaching our fundraising target!”

Registration for the event begins at 4pm and it costs £25 to enter with proceeds spilt between the three charities and the Ghana Ski Team. All levels of skiers and snowboarders are welcome to participate in the knock-out dual slalom race and spectators will have panoramic views of all the action from The Snow Centre’s superb viewing balcony. Race and raffle prizes at the event include holidays in some of Europe’s top ski destinations, top of the range snowsports’ equipment and even professional digital cameras. 

Peter Gillespie, director of snowsports at The Snow Centre, said: “We are delighted to host The Snow Leopard Challenge at The Snow Centre. As the official indoor training base for Kwame we are committed to helping him raise as much money as possible for his chosen charities.”

 

There’s Snow Better Way to Keep Kids Entertained

04 Aug 2009

Around 20% of Brits opted for a staycation this year with the promise of soaring summer temperatures making the UK a holiday destination hot-spot*. But, as the Met office announce this week that the weather is due to remain ‘unsettled’, thrifty stay-at-home Brits are finding that their sunny holiday plans are heading down the drain. 

With the Great British summer proving to be a washout, The Snow Centre’s summer school courses are the perfect way to keep kids entertained and active.

The Snow Centre, based in Hemel Hempstead, boasts a BASI Centre of Excellence Status making it the most highly qualified snowsports school in the south of England. Children of all abilities are catered for and they are guaranteed to receive world class coaching from some of the best instructors this side of the Alps.

Four to six-year-olds can enjoy a four day skiing course with an hour of skiing per day for £50; Seven to 16-year-olds can choose between a four day course of skiing or snowboarding, receiving eight hours of tuition over the four days for £90 (members are eligible for discount on all courses).

Whether a beginner or a budding snowsports star, the courses are a superb way to occupy children whilst also offering them the chance to learn new or brush up on their existing sporting skills, make friends, build confidence and improve fitness.

Courses run on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays and Fridays until w/c 24th August.

For more information on how to book please call 0845 258 9000

 

Hemel Home to Winter Olympic Hopefuls

21 Jul 2009

The UK’s premiere snowsports centre, The Snow Centre is delighted to announce a deal to become the official indoor training ground for one of the most exciting hopefuls in recent Winter Olympic history.

Kwame Nkrumah-Acheampong - AKA The Snow Leopard – the sole member of the Ghanaian ski team has struck a year-long deal with The Snow Centre, based in Hemel Hempstead, to support his intense training schedule ahead of next year’s eagerly anticipated Winter Olympics in Vancouver.

The 33-year-old, who lives in Milton Keynes, will practice on the world class snow at the Hemel Hempstead-based centre in order to develop his slalom technique.

The Snow Centre is the UK’s newest snowsport centre which opened in May, and is the only British Association of Ski Instructors (BASI) Centre of Excellence in the south of England. Kwame will make use of the centre’s large 160m main slope and Britain’s biggest training slope of 100m. The centre also has the latest snow-making technology providing excellent snow conditions for his schooling.

Kwame is not the only Olympic hopeful attracted to the quality of facilities on offer at The Snow Centre. The Hemel Hempstead based centre is also used as a training ground by the historic Kandahar Race Club which provides world class training to GB stars including Jayme Baggio and Ed Drake.

Elise Hyslop, marketing manager at The Snow Centre: “We’re delighted to be the official indoor training ground for Kwame and the stomping ground for some of the hottest and most interesting Winter Olympic talent in Britain. As a BASI Centre of Excellence we have one of the most qualified ski schools outside of the Alps, and our facilities and ski conditions are perfect for their indoor training needs. We look forward to watching their progress in Hemel Hempstead as we head towards 2010.” 

Kwame Nkrumah-Acheampong, AKA The Snow Leopard said: “I am delighted to receive such tremendous support from The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead. The facilities at the centre are first class and will allow me to continue my Olympic training right on my doorstep. The quality of the snow is second to none and makes for the perfect technical alpine skiing training conditions this side of Europe.”

 

The Snow Stig

26 Jun 2009

The Snow Stig video - watch it here

 

Snow Centre Plays Host to Top Olympic Skier

09 Jun 2009

The weather may be looking up but winter fever has certainly hit the South East.

This weekend Chemmy Alcott, Britain’s number one skier and prime skiing medal hope at the 2010 Winter Olympics, descended on The Snow Centre, Hemel Hempstead to hold ski master classes for its customers and members of Snowheads internet chat forum.

London-born Chemmy is currently gearing up for this year’s World Cup, which starts in October, and for the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, which take place next February. She is back in the UK for intensive fitness training before jetting off for glacier ski training in New Zealand and Chile to put the finishing touches to her race preparation. She took time out from training on Saturday to offer tips and advice to ski enthusiasts at The Snow Centre in special ski master classes.

Chemmy Alcott said: “I am delighted to be at the new Snow Centre, it is fantastic that we now have such a great snowsports facility so close to the capital. Hopefully more people will be inspired to pick up the sport and with the quality of training on offer at The Snow Centre, we should be seeing more bright stars coming through the ranks very soon!”

The £23million Snow Centre opened last month and is the only indoor snowsports complex in the south to hold the prestigious Centre of Excellence status, given by the British Association of Snowsport Instructors (BASI), making it one of the most qualified snow schools outside of the Alps.

Peter Gillespie, director of snowsports at The Snow Centre, said: “We pride ourselves on the quality of coaching available here at The Snow Centre and the master classes held by Chemmy on Saturday were an inspiration to all. From beginners to budding Chemmys, The Snow Centre caters for all levels of ability and customers can expect nothing but the best when it comes to the quality of instruction and facilities.” 

 

The UK’s Premiere Snowsport School

10 May 2009

Once only the preserve of specialist centres in the Alps, snowsport enthusiasts in the UK can now take advantage of some of the best tuition available in Europe, thanks to The Snow Centre Snowsports School.

Its commitment to employ the highest qualified instructors reinforces The Snow Centre’s status as a British Association of Snowsport Instructors (BASI) Centre of Excellence - the only indoor complex in the south.

In addition, some of the centre’s top instructors are affiliated to organisations such as  International Ski instructors Association (ISIA), Snow Sports England, Snow Sports Scotland, International Federation of Ski Instructors (IVSI) and there is a first of its kind partnership with the Oetztal region Austria.
 
With the Winter Olympics set for Vancouver in 2010, this pedigree of expertise means The Snow Centre is even capable of providing race training to elite competitors such as the British Olympic team, including 2010 hopefuls, Ed Drake and Chemmy Alcott, both former Hemel Ski Centre visitors.

The 120 strong Snow Centre Snowsports School is headed up by the director of snowsports, Pete Silver Gillespie (BASI trainer/examiner, International Ski Teacher, ISIA, Alpine Performance Coach). He will be supported by:

• David Surrey (BASI Alpine level 2, SSE and SNSC) commercial and operations director at The Snow Centre and an Alpine Performance Coach
• Ashley Moulding (BASI ski instructor and ISIA) senior ski and snowboard instructor

In addition to offering a wide range of training courses for individuals, groups and families, The Snowsports School will also provide a coaching academy for instructors and coaches, helping others to develop their professional skills. Different courses are catered for including:

- Level 1 BASI
- BASI Senior Instructor
- British Association of Ski Patrollers (BASP) First Aid
- UK Snowsport Courses
- Freestyle Lessons
- Ladies’ Morning Coaching
- Junior Achievement Scheme

For further information on training and lesson visit:

www.thesnowcentre.com/snowsports-school

 

Ready, Steady, Snow - The UK’s Premiere Snowsports Centre in Hemel Hempstead

06 May 2009

The Snow Centre, the UK’s premiere snowsports centre, opened its doors to the public on 6 May 2009.

Based in Hemel Hempstead, the £23million snowsports centre boasts 8000m2 of real snow slopes including a 160m main slope and Britain’s largest indoor lesson slope of 100m. It is also the only indoor snow centre in the south to hold the prestigious Centre of Excellence status, given by the British Association of Snowsport Instructors (BASI), making it one of the most qualified snow schools outside of the Alps.

Snowsport enthusiasts are treated to top of the range facilities and equipment. State-of-the-art snow cannons provide some of the best snow this side of the Alps, while a first of its kind link with the Oetztal region of Austria enables The Snow Centre to benefit from the latest Alpine coaching techniques. There is even a large on-site Snow+Rock store.  And while the centre caters for snowsport beginners and experts, it also ensures families are not forgotten with a Snow Play area providing a fun zone for little people.

In addition Après Ski is well thought out and delivered with an alpine twist. The EDGE CaféBar, which overlooks the slope provides such delights as Glϋhwein, continental platters and indulgent hot chocolate. Furthermore, the centre provides unique team building and training programmes, motivational speakers and has three fully-equipped conference facilities.

David Surrey, Commercial and Operations Director of The Snow Centre, said: “The Snow Centre is truly a premiere destination in the UK for the very best in training, recreational snowsports and family fun.  Our commitment to providing the very best in customer service means everybody will be able to enjoy the centre, from beginners to experts, children to adults.”

The Snow Centre, built on the site of the former Hemel Ski Slope, is aiming to attract 250,000 visitors in its first year and is the first indoor snow sports venue within easy reach of the capital.

For more information visit www.thesnowcentre.com

 

First snow!

18 Mar 2009