Record Set: World’s Largest Lesson a Success

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Push to The Latest: No

SAM Magazine—Dover, Vt., Jan. 11, 2015—On Friday, Jan. 8, at 10 a.m., school was in session at more than 160 resorts from New Jersey to Alaska in an attempt to establish a record for the World's Largest Ski and Snowboard Lesson. While the final tally is still not yet complete, several thousand first-time skiers and riders of all ages turned out.

Organizers of “World's Largest Lesson” encouraged participating resorts to offer discounted lesson packages to entice newcomers to register. Host locations publicized their participation through social media posts, press releases, and website promotions. And on the day of, lesson-goers were treated to special offers, mascot appearances, and even free stuff.

Mountain Creek, N.J., was one of the most successful hosts. It provided a learn-to package for free to everyone who pre-registered. The package included equipment rental, lesson, and limited access lift ticket. The resort had more than 200 people show up for the lesson.

It was important to give these first-timers a positive experience, said spokesperson Sara Hazen. “We wanted to create the lowest barrier of entry for people, with no cost out of pocket, just their time,” she said. “And while they were here we wanted to make them feel welcome, so we put out some free hot chocolate and created a fun atmosphere.”

Mountain Creek also offered all participants the opportunity upgrade to its Guaranteed to Learn to Ski or Snowboard program for $79, with the record-setting lesson counting as the first in the three lesson program ($130).

Smuggler's Notch, Vt., had nearly 30 kids and adults take part in the lesson, which was taught by eight instructors. Participants paid $10 for a learn-to-ski or -snowboard package and were cheered on by the resort's mascots, Billy Bob Bear and Mogul Mouse. They also went home with a Smuggs' neck warmer and a certificate for the January learn to ski & ride package special of $49. All were entered into a drawing for a free a learn-to ski or snowboard package or a Smuggs' season pass.

The effort to set the record stretched all the way up Alaska, where Eaglecrest Ski Area attracted 87 people to help set the record—33 snowboarders, 53 skiers, and one monoskier—ranging in age from 3 to 60. All participants were treated to free hot chocolate, water, and Eaglecrest calendars, stickers, and zipper pulls. They were also given a certificate of completion, along with a coupon for $10 off the resort's Triple Play Learners Pack.

It was a fun atmosphere, according to Eaglecrest spokesperson Jeffra Clough: “The excitement on the learning area was contagious. Groups were cheering for each other and many found new friends and spent the afternoon skiing or snowboarding together.”

It could be a while before the final tally is complete and the record total is revealed. Participation numbers from each time zone will be sent to the Guinness organization in Great Britain for verification, which will then deliver the official number.

That will just be the icing on the cake, though. Introducing thousands of newcomers was the real prize.

“We hope everyone who turned out had a good time and that they come back with friends or family members for more good times,” said event creator Hugh Reynolds of Snow Operating. “Skiing and snowboarding provide people of all ages a chance to get outside during the winter. We thought going for a Guinness record was a good way to get that point across. Especially since so many ski and snowboard areas have such great learning deals during January.”