What, when, and where?
Beginner daze was founded with the explicit intent of introducing new people to skiing while recognizing the many barriers to entry that exist for a sport with past and present gate-keeping practices. In coalition with other campus organizations, we have created a (hopefully) yearly event at no cost to participants. The ski club coordinates transportation, gear rentals, lessons, and food for a day trip to Big Bear Mountain Resort.
Generally speaking, participants can expect an early morning departure from Pomona College with a 1.5 hour drive each way (traffic/weather dependent). Upon arrival, participants will be fitted for ski gear (boots, skis, poles, helmets, goggles) and given lift tickets for the day. The morning session will include an introductory ski lesson with Big Bear resort instructors on the magic carpet with the option to learn how to ride a chair lift and ski longer runs. Lunch will be provided as a pack-out meal or pizzas. The afternoon session will give participants time to test out their newly learned skills or just hang out and enjoy the snow/winter environment. Prior to leaving campus, a pack-out breakfast will be provided. But we’d recommend grabbing a snack or two from the dining halls in anticipation of a day spent in the car/outside.
Who is eligible for the trip?
This trip is geared towards making skiing and snowboarding more accessible for all, especially students who have never had the opportunity to experience winter sports. (For students from FLI backgrounds please reach out to us at 5c.ski.snowboard.club@gmail.com to find out more about funding for this trip).
Transportation?
Provided by the ski club: vans and carpools.
Should I try skiing or snowboarding?
Up to you! It’s often said that skiing is easier to learn, but harder to master than snowboarding. That being said, try whatever you think is cooler!
What should I wear?
Participants are encouraged to use the OEC or 5C Ski & Snowboard Club to borrow winter gear. Appropriate winter gear for skiing includes snow pants, a winter jacket, and gloves/mittens. Additionally, we’d recommend tall/warm (wool, if possible) socks, long-underwear bottoms (or synthetic athletic sweats), and a long-underwear top (or synthetic athletic long-sleeve/pullover). Sunglasses or eyeglasses are recommended in case goggles are not available. Absolutely none of this gear needs to be purchased to participate in beginner daze, we are sharing this information for reference only. Weather at Big Bear can range from about 0 ºF – 50 ºF during the winter with snowy or sunny days, but ski club staff will provide expected weather conditions to participants closer to the day to help information clothing/gear choices.
Reading for the nerds out there:
