Its so nice to have a bit of a lie-in although I woke up at 8.15 to me thats still a lie-in.
I had breakfast in the dining room, yes the usual bacon and eggs, I thought as I was going on a long drive it was better that I dont stop too many times on the way.
I packed my bags and put them in the car, I paid for my extas at the hotel lobby and I was on my way to Calgary. It was around 11.30am and the sun was shining it was going to be a really nice drive. I stopped to fill up with petrol and off I set, the drive really was beautiful 250 km or more of great views and blue sunshine, I put on my ipod because there was no radio broadcast and soaked up the views, I must have seen only 6 to 8 cars on the whole journey and I thought if only it was like this in the uk!
I got to Banff and did a quick bit of shopping as well as pay for those skis especially as they were so nice to ski on. Then headed to Canmore, I wanted to get a cuddly husky dog to take home for each of the girls.
Then it was straight to Calgary, I drove right past the COP which was all lit up and it looked wonderful, as I came into Calgary I spotted a Sportcheck shop so I stopped to buy a ski bag for my new skis and while I was in there I also bought a new pair of running shoes.
I had a bite to eat at a Subway Outlet then got to The Fairmont Palliser Hotel in Downtown Calgary at around 10pm I was told to check in on the 8th Floor because I was a gold member! I was taken to my room which turned out to be a suite it was huge and very nice I had a huge sitting room and bedroom and a kitchen!
I decided to take the hire car back to Avis which was just round the corner from the hotel and I dropped the keys in through a special letter box. Then it was back to the hotel for a bit of TV to relax then off to bed.
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Thursday, February 21, 2008
Ski Day at Jasper
It was another early start today, so early in fact that I had to order breakfast to my room because the dining room was not yet open. I was being was being picked up by a lovely young lady called Janka, she is from Slovakia but has been in Jasper for I think 5yrs, She popped into the De'd Dog pub very briefly yesterday while I was having lunch with Helen Kelleher-Empey, she wanted a photo taken together. We met by accident alittle later and she said she would pick me up at my hotel at 7.30am and take me to meet the ski instructors at the ski hill before it got busy.
So I had my cereal and toast, got changed and went to the reception to wait for Janka. She arrived and took me to pick up two other friends of hers and we headed for the Marmot Basin ski hill.
I only needed a pair of ski sticks as I already had a pair of skis I was trying out from the Ski Hub in Banff with a view to buying them if I liked them. I also registered for the Marmot Challenge the ski race, and got my bib. Then Janka, her two friends and me went off to have a ski and a quick practice for the race.
The race started at 10.30 and I skied my first run which went quite well but I knew I could go faster. At the bottom of the first run I was introduced to Andre who was trying to race with a few broken ribs but found it too painful so he asked me if I could do his second run for him so of course I did and also did my own second run as well which definately felt faster. I also met a group of young British guys who were doing their Grade two Ski Instuctor Course.
At around noon I was taken down to the Lodge for lunch with Brian Rode Vice President of Marketing for the Marmot Basin Ski Hill I had a burger and chips, well I though I would lose quite a few pounds as I was skiing all day!
I also met a journalist from the local newpaper I think it was called the Jasper Beever so I gave her an interview and we both went up to 'The Eagle Ridge' which was a ski run because she wanted to get a few photo's for the newspaper.
I then carried on skiing with Janka and also George from the De'd Dog Pub and a few others on and off, we skied up until the lift guys said it was the last run, so we went up to the top of the hill, we met a young girl boarder called Zoe who was boarding with her father, unfortunately she got very frightened coming down from the top as it was a bit steep. We cheered her up and I had my photo taken with her while we waited for the snowmobile to take her down the hill. After that we all skied down and Janka gave me a lift back to the Hotel where I had a quick 45 minutes in the hot tub then got changed and I was off to the pub for the results of the race and the prize giving.
My team I think came about 12th and I was 21st overall wich was out of about 130 or so, I didnt think that was too bad considering I am old, unfit, and have'nt raced in 25 yrs, I won a t-shirt which I will wear with pride.
I had a little drink and something to eat and had a chat to alot of people, including an engineer who worked on the railroad from Jasper to Vancouver, George who owned the pub and the Astoria Hotel, and some of the British Ski Instructors, and of course Janka.
I finally left about 10.45 and headed back to the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Hotel
and to room 120 where I watched a bit of TV and went to bed thinking what a great day I've had and thank God I've got a lie-in in the morning!
So I had my cereal and toast, got changed and went to the reception to wait for Janka. She arrived and took me to pick up two other friends of hers and we headed for the Marmot Basin ski hill.
I only needed a pair of ski sticks as I already had a pair of skis I was trying out from the Ski Hub in Banff with a view to buying them if I liked them. I also registered for the Marmot Challenge the ski race, and got my bib. Then Janka, her two friends and me went off to have a ski and a quick practice for the race.
The race started at 10.30 and I skied my first run which went quite well but I knew I could go faster. At the bottom of the first run I was introduced to Andre who was trying to race with a few broken ribs but found it too painful so he asked me if I could do his second run for him so of course I did and also did my own second run as well which definately felt faster. I also met a group of young British guys who were doing their Grade two Ski Instuctor Course.
At around noon I was taken down to the Lodge for lunch with Brian Rode Vice President of Marketing for the Marmot Basin Ski Hill I had a burger and chips, well I though I would lose quite a few pounds as I was skiing all day!
I also met a journalist from the local newpaper I think it was called the Jasper Beever so I gave her an interview and we both went up to 'The Eagle Ridge' which was a ski run because she wanted to get a few photo's for the newspaper.
I then carried on skiing with Janka and also George from the De'd Dog Pub and a few others on and off, we skied up until the lift guys said it was the last run, so we went up to the top of the hill, we met a young girl boarder called Zoe who was boarding with her father, unfortunately she got very frightened coming down from the top as it was a bit steep. We cheered her up and I had my photo taken with her while we waited for the snowmobile to take her down the hill. After that we all skied down and Janka gave me a lift back to the Hotel where I had a quick 45 minutes in the hot tub then got changed and I was off to the pub for the results of the race and the prize giving.
My team I think came about 12th and I was 21st overall wich was out of about 130 or so, I didnt think that was too bad considering I am old, unfit, and have'nt raced in 25 yrs, I won a t-shirt which I will wear with pride.
I had a little drink and something to eat and had a chat to alot of people, including an engineer who worked on the railroad from Jasper to Vancouver, George who owned the pub and the Astoria Hotel, and some of the British Ski Instructors, and of course Janka.
I finally left about 10.45 and headed back to the Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge Hotel
and to room 120 where I watched a bit of TV and went to bed thinking what a great day I've had and thank God I've got a lie-in in the morning!
Wednesday, February 20, 2008
The Ice Walk
Well I managed a bit of a lie in, I was up at 7.45, and I am sleeping through the night now so that is good. The main problem was getting out of bed I was quite sore from all that hiking and running yesterday especially my legs and buttocks, I managed to get to breafast in the hotel dining room which was very nice I had the 'healthy starter' of pancakes and maple syrup and coffee I am not really sure whether pancakes are that healthy but I'll take their word for it.
They were really nice though.
I was met at 9.15 in the lobby by a guide from the Jasper Adventure Centre Ltd who gave me some special boots to put on that were not unlike wellies but had a -30 degree lining to keep my feet warm, he also put on cleats (I think thats what he called them) which were to prevent me from slipping on the Ice. We were off to the Maligne Canyon for an Ice walk. We drove about 15 minutes from the Hotel, during which I signed that darn waiver form again.
When we pulled up in the car park we all got out, there were 9 of us in total two families of four and me.... Norman no-mates!
The guide gave us a 10 minute health and safety talk, and off we walked, it was about a 3km walk to the Canyon itself which was'nt too difficult at all and we stopped plenty of times so that people could rest and take photos. During the walk we came across two dear 'oh that must be lunch' I said.
We had to climb down a few little rocks to start our walk into the Canyon. It was explained that the Canyon was formed by an underground water system, and that the ice in places was 14 feet thick. We carefully and slowly walked up the Canyon stopping alot and being told to step only where the guide stepped, we saw people doing some Ice climbing and we also saw a few frozen waterfalls some were only about 5 or 6 feet high but others were 80 feet high. We walked up the Canyon to a place called the Cathederal where the rock had been smoothed by the action of the water that cascaded down the mountain at some considerable force in the summer obviously!
Then we walked back down the Canyon and finally back to the car park, it took three hours but it did'nt really feel like it, the guide was very informative and knew his stuff, I thought he should have been a geography teacher!
We took off our footwear and put our normal shoes on, then it was back to the hotel.
I needed to be quick because I was meeting Helen Kellcher-Empey General Manager of Jasper Tourism & Commerce at the De'd Dog Pub in the town which was a local favourite.
Lunch was great and I even managed to watch Liverpool, my football team, playing AC Milan in the Champions League on the TV in the pub.... what a result!
While in the pub George, the owner asked me if I'd like to ski in the monthly Marmot Basin Ski Race which took place the next day. It was teams of fiver skiers made up of workers in the town as well as ski instructors and ski racers. I was put in a team called the Medical Monday's there were two nurses and a paramedic as well as me and someone else they managed to scrabble to make up the team.
I then walked around the town to see what they had to offer, there were lots of gift shops, ski shops and cafes so after a walk I went back to the hotel for a swim in the outside pool, a sauna and a soak in the hot tub to ease my weary limbs. I then had a quick bite to eat before retiring back to my room for a rest.
I quickly replied to all my e-mails then it was off to bed.
They were really nice though.
I was met at 9.15 in the lobby by a guide from the Jasper Adventure Centre Ltd who gave me some special boots to put on that were not unlike wellies but had a -30 degree lining to keep my feet warm, he also put on cleats (I think thats what he called them) which were to prevent me from slipping on the Ice. We were off to the Maligne Canyon for an Ice walk. We drove about 15 minutes from the Hotel, during which I signed that darn waiver form again.
When we pulled up in the car park we all got out, there were 9 of us in total two families of four and me.... Norman no-mates!
The guide gave us a 10 minute health and safety talk, and off we walked, it was about a 3km walk to the Canyon itself which was'nt too difficult at all and we stopped plenty of times so that people could rest and take photos. During the walk we came across two dear 'oh that must be lunch' I said.
We had to climb down a few little rocks to start our walk into the Canyon. It was explained that the Canyon was formed by an underground water system, and that the ice in places was 14 feet thick. We carefully and slowly walked up the Canyon stopping alot and being told to step only where the guide stepped, we saw people doing some Ice climbing and we also saw a few frozen waterfalls some were only about 5 or 6 feet high but others were 80 feet high. We walked up the Canyon to a place called the Cathederal where the rock had been smoothed by the action of the water that cascaded down the mountain at some considerable force in the summer obviously!
Then we walked back down the Canyon and finally back to the car park, it took three hours but it did'nt really feel like it, the guide was very informative and knew his stuff, I thought he should have been a geography teacher!
We took off our footwear and put our normal shoes on, then it was back to the hotel.
I needed to be quick because I was meeting Helen Kellcher-Empey General Manager of Jasper Tourism & Commerce at the De'd Dog Pub in the town which was a local favourite.
Lunch was great and I even managed to watch Liverpool, my football team, playing AC Milan in the Champions League on the TV in the pub.... what a result!
While in the pub George, the owner asked me if I'd like to ski in the monthly Marmot Basin Ski Race which took place the next day. It was teams of fiver skiers made up of workers in the town as well as ski instructors and ski racers. I was put in a team called the Medical Monday's there were two nurses and a paramedic as well as me and someone else they managed to scrabble to make up the team.
I then walked around the town to see what they had to offer, there were lots of gift shops, ski shops and cafes so after a walk I went back to the hotel for a swim in the outside pool, a sauna and a soak in the hot tub to ease my weary limbs. I then had a quick bite to eat before retiring back to my room for a rest.
I quickly replied to all my e-mails then it was off to bed.
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Drive to Jasper
Well my predicted sleep-in did'nt quite materialise I got a phone call from Tanya in the UK, she works for the agency that helped put all this trip together, she was reminding me that I had a telephone interview on the Chris Evans Show on BBC Radio 2 in the UK at 11.45 my time.
While it is true that I do sometimes, no rarely forget things, I had'nt forgotten this.
I got up and had a shower, cooked myself some bacon and eggs, and attempted to pack some of my things, the trouble is that I have so much stuff now that it is impossible to pack everything. This is a good excuse to buy some new skis, so I then have to buy a ski bag, which I can then put lots more things into. Crikey a reason to shop... I am sounding like a women!!! (Next thing is I will be called Edwina the Eagle)
After doing the radio interview which went quite well I checked out and started my drive to Jasper, after having filled my tank with petrol of course.
Everything was going well I had passed Lake Louise and had to turn off to Jasper, I must have gone about 5 miles when a Park Ranger stopped me and said that the road was to be closed for 4 hrs in about an hours time, he advised me that I could drive 70 miles up to where the road was to be closed and wait or return to Lake Louise.
So I did just that, I drove back to Lake Louise and parked by the Chateau. I had a quick coffe and a cake then went on a 10km hike, I walked up to Mirror Lake then on to Lake Agnes, I had a look round the lake then ran all the way back down to Lake Louise, I walked all the way along form one end to the other of Lake Louise then had a quick look around the shops. By this time it was 5.15pm so I decided to get on my way to Jasper.
I reached the point where the road was closed and the Park Ranger told me it was because of a risk of Avalache, he said there had been four small ones which had reached the road but it was still passable. At 6.20pm they felt the snow had frozen enough and had stablised so the road was back open, it was a pity that it was dark as it would have been a lovely sight seeing drive, but I eventually made it to Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge outside Jasper. I checked in went straight down for a sauna before I even went to my room, had a quick bite to eat, then went to my room, it is a chalet inwhich there is a partitioned sitting room, bedroom and bathroom, its very swish.
As it was late I quickly checked my e-mails then went to bed.
While it is true that I do sometimes, no rarely forget things, I had'nt forgotten this.
I got up and had a shower, cooked myself some bacon and eggs, and attempted to pack some of my things, the trouble is that I have so much stuff now that it is impossible to pack everything. This is a good excuse to buy some new skis, so I then have to buy a ski bag, which I can then put lots more things into. Crikey a reason to shop... I am sounding like a women!!! (Next thing is I will be called Edwina the Eagle)
After doing the radio interview which went quite well I checked out and started my drive to Jasper, after having filled my tank with petrol of course.
Everything was going well I had passed Lake Louise and had to turn off to Jasper, I must have gone about 5 miles when a Park Ranger stopped me and said that the road was to be closed for 4 hrs in about an hours time, he advised me that I could drive 70 miles up to where the road was to be closed and wait or return to Lake Louise.
So I did just that, I drove back to Lake Louise and parked by the Chateau. I had a quick coffe and a cake then went on a 10km hike, I walked up to Mirror Lake then on to Lake Agnes, I had a look round the lake then ran all the way back down to Lake Louise, I walked all the way along form one end to the other of Lake Louise then had a quick look around the shops. By this time it was 5.15pm so I decided to get on my way to Jasper.
I reached the point where the road was closed and the Park Ranger told me it was because of a risk of Avalache, he said there had been four small ones which had reached the road but it was still passable. At 6.20pm they felt the snow had frozen enough and had stablised so the road was back open, it was a pity that it was dark as it would have been a lovely sight seeing drive, but I eventually made it to Fairmont Jasper Park Lodge outside Jasper. I checked in went straight down for a sauna before I even went to my room, had a quick bite to eat, then went to my room, it is a chalet inwhich there is a partitioned sitting room, bedroom and bathroom, its very swish.
As it was late I quickly checked my e-mails then went to bed.
Monday, February 18, 2008
Dog Sled Day
It was an early day yet again, I was up at 6.30am today because I had to be at The Snowy Owl Dog Sledding Tours' Office in Canmore at 8.15 am.
So after a shower I had a bowl of cornflakes (I could'nt face another round of bacon and eggs), then wrapped up warm in my thermal tights, yes what a nice sight!... then I was off to Canmore.
It didn't take very long at all to drive there in fact I was 30 mins early so I went in to McDonalds to have a cup of coffee and a muffin.
When I got to the Snowy Owls Office I checked in and waited to be put into a van which was to take us all to the venue which was some 30 mins away up by a reservoir. I bumped into my friend from the BBC who came along as well.
There was about 24 people for this particular tour ranging in age from 2yrs to 60 yrs we all piled into one of three vans. As we were escorted along the driver gave us a waver form for us each to sign, I thought it might be in case one of us was eaten by a dog!!
When we got to our destination it was gloriously sunny but unfortunately it was -17 so it was worse than cold it was brass monkey weather!
There were some people from Scotland there as well so we had a quick chat and I had my photo taken with them as well as a photo with a family of Australians.
We were given a 30 min briefing where we told how to start, stop and how to get back on when we fall off.
I was on a sled with the daughter of the owners of the tours, she has been driving dog sleds since she was 4yrs old, and she was only 22 now, she was small and light so I thought we may go quite fast especially with my trim figure as well!
We were the lead sled and we stopped every few hundred yards or so to see if everyone was ok and to wait for those who had fallen off. The dogs were great they moved along at quite a good pace, the driver had to help the dogs when going up hill by jumping off and running or by using one's foot as if on a scooter, but the downhill sections were the best as they were quite bumpy in places and this is where most people were likely to fall off.
The track is about 10km in total with the first 5km going out on a track through trees this was where it was at its most bumpy going up and down a little following the natural terrain, the 5km coming back was along a frozen lake and then alongside a canal so this was flat. There was a photographer taking pictures of everyone as they went along and the photos were available to buy some 5 mins later when everyone had finish their ride and was sitting next to the fire having warm cider and a biscuit.
It was a great experience and one that is a must for anyone travelling through or staying in Banff as it is one of those 'once in a lifetime' experiences that will never be forgotten. The dogs were very friendly and loved any attention that was given to them, I wanted to take one home with me as they were so lovely and cuddly, just like me.
It was 12 by the time we all got back to the Tour office so I had a quick bite to eat then headed back to Banff. I thought it was abit late to go skiing so I went shopping in Banff, took my rental skis back to the Ski Hub in the main street in Banff, they gave me a pair of racing skis to try out when I ski in Jasper and if I like them I can buy them when I pass through on Thursday from Jasper back to Calgary, so that was nice of them.
I went back to the Hotel for a shower and to change because I was meeting Maude, Colin Nicholson from Ski and Board Magazine and Alistair Barnes Executive chef for the Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge for dinner.
Maude, and myself started our dinner and then Alistair popped over for a quick chat and gave me a book of recipes, this'll be nice as I cant even boil an egg so it might spur me on to try something when I get home.
Colin eventually turned up just as we were about to leave, he had been skiing in Jasper and was told it'll only take 2 hours to drive to Banff, ....yeah right!
It took him over 4 hours but he did get here in the end, we had a quick chat then I went back to my room as I was shattered, I watched a bit of TV then went to bed safely in the knowledge that I ccould sleep in in the morning as I did'nt have to be anywhere first thing.
So after a shower I had a bowl of cornflakes (I could'nt face another round of bacon and eggs), then wrapped up warm in my thermal tights, yes what a nice sight!... then I was off to Canmore.
It didn't take very long at all to drive there in fact I was 30 mins early so I went in to McDonalds to have a cup of coffee and a muffin.
When I got to the Snowy Owls Office I checked in and waited to be put into a van which was to take us all to the venue which was some 30 mins away up by a reservoir. I bumped into my friend from the BBC who came along as well.
There was about 24 people for this particular tour ranging in age from 2yrs to 60 yrs we all piled into one of three vans. As we were escorted along the driver gave us a waver form for us each to sign, I thought it might be in case one of us was eaten by a dog!!
When we got to our destination it was gloriously sunny but unfortunately it was -17 so it was worse than cold it was brass monkey weather!
There were some people from Scotland there as well so we had a quick chat and I had my photo taken with them as well as a photo with a family of Australians.
We were given a 30 min briefing where we told how to start, stop and how to get back on when we fall off.
I was on a sled with the daughter of the owners of the tours, she has been driving dog sleds since she was 4yrs old, and she was only 22 now, she was small and light so I thought we may go quite fast especially with my trim figure as well!
We were the lead sled and we stopped every few hundred yards or so to see if everyone was ok and to wait for those who had fallen off. The dogs were great they moved along at quite a good pace, the driver had to help the dogs when going up hill by jumping off and running or by using one's foot as if on a scooter, but the downhill sections were the best as they were quite bumpy in places and this is where most people were likely to fall off.
The track is about 10km in total with the first 5km going out on a track through trees this was where it was at its most bumpy going up and down a little following the natural terrain, the 5km coming back was along a frozen lake and then alongside a canal so this was flat. There was a photographer taking pictures of everyone as they went along and the photos were available to buy some 5 mins later when everyone had finish their ride and was sitting next to the fire having warm cider and a biscuit.It was a great experience and one that is a must for anyone travelling through or staying in Banff as it is one of those 'once in a lifetime' experiences that will never be forgotten. The dogs were very friendly and loved any attention that was given to them, I wanted to take one home with me as they were so lovely and cuddly, just like me.
It was 12 by the time we all got back to the Tour office so I had a quick bite to eat then headed back to Banff. I thought it was abit late to go skiing so I went shopping in Banff, took my rental skis back to the Ski Hub in the main street in Banff, they gave me a pair of racing skis to try out when I ski in Jasper and if I like them I can buy them when I pass through on Thursday from Jasper back to Calgary, so that was nice of them.
I went back to the Hotel for a shower and to change because I was meeting Maude, Colin Nicholson from Ski and Board Magazine and Alistair Barnes Executive chef for the Canadian Rocky Mountain Resorts at the Buffalo Mountain Lodge for dinner.
Maude, and myself started our dinner and then Alistair popped over for a quick chat and gave me a book of recipes, this'll be nice as I cant even boil an egg so it might spur me on to try something when I get home.
Colin eventually turned up just as we were about to leave, he had been skiing in Jasper and was told it'll only take 2 hours to drive to Banff, ....yeah right!
It took him over 4 hours but he did get here in the end, we had a quick chat then I went back to my room as I was shattered, I watched a bit of TV then went to bed safely in the knowledge that I ccould sleep in in the morning as I did'nt have to be anywhere first thing.
Saturday, February 16, 2008
Another Ski Resort
Hi everyone, I have just worked out how to solve the sleeping issue, go to bed at 4am!!....then you will sleep right through until 7.00am. Well I nearly went that far. I think I finally went to sleep at around 1.00am but I did sleep without waking up until the alarm went off at 7.00 am.
I know its kind of a holiday for me but I have to get up quite early because I promised to meet Trent Edwards and a photographer from the Calgary Herald at Sunshine Ski Resort for a ski and an interview.
I made my breakfast of bacon and eggs (its the law to have bacon and eggs if your going skiing!)I am getting better at cooking now because I managed to cook it without setting off the fire alarm.
I rang Sam at home, its great to hear her voice and to know that everything at home is ok, then I set off in the car for the 30 minute journey to Sunshine, it was very easy to get to and there were alot of people there, well it was a saturday after all.
I did'nt know what Trent looked like or what he was wearing and I did'nt have his mobile phone number with me either so I was hoping that he might notice me.
Luckily he did, the photographer and myself went for a coffee in the cafe at the bottom of the lift while Trent sorted out his lift ticket and his ski hire.
Then we headed for the top of the slopes, the weather was'nt too good, it was cloudy and snowing alittle but by the time we got to the top of the slopes the sun came out, so thats why its called Sunshine Ski Resort!
The skiing was excellent, beautiful packed or powder snow, the photographer wanted a head and shoulders shot and an action shot, he managed to get an action shot when we skied through the trees in a foot deep powder snow. As soon as the photographer was finished he had to get off to a function in Banff so Trent and I went off for more skiing, after another hour or so we decided to have some lunch so we went into one of the cafe's.
We both had a Strongbow cider, fish abd chips and a coffee as Trent interviewed me. Next to our table were a group of lads from England, we had a chat, had my photo taken with them, then they went off for some skiing.
Trent eventually finished his interview and we went off skiing with two of his friends, we skied up and down 'Goats Eye' for the rest of the afternoon which had some great double black runs through trees and between rocks and down some steep narrow slopes, my legs were burning by 4.00pm when they started closing down the lifts so we skied all the way down to the car park.
We managed to ski at least half the bowl that Sunshine lift system is situated in and I can thoroughly recommend anyone to go and ski there, you will have a great time whatever your ski ability may be.
I said my thanks and goodbyes to Trent then headed back in the car to Banff where I had a cup of coffee and a cake in a cafe in the high street, the same one as yesterday in fact, while I had my coffee a japanese family saw me and popped in to say hello and have a picture taken.
After my coffee I decided to go and search around the shops for prezzies for Sam and the kids, and also for a pair of skis for me.
I then grabbed a quick bite to eat before heading back to the Hotel for a session in the hot tub to ease my weary legs... life is so hard sometimes.
I watched a bit of tv to relax then off to bed
I know its kind of a holiday for me but I have to get up quite early because I promised to meet Trent Edwards and a photographer from the Calgary Herald at Sunshine Ski Resort for a ski and an interview.
I made my breakfast of bacon and eggs (its the law to have bacon and eggs if your going skiing!)I am getting better at cooking now because I managed to cook it without setting off the fire alarm.
I rang Sam at home, its great to hear her voice and to know that everything at home is ok, then I set off in the car for the 30 minute journey to Sunshine, it was very easy to get to and there were alot of people there, well it was a saturday after all.
I did'nt know what Trent looked like or what he was wearing and I did'nt have his mobile phone number with me either so I was hoping that he might notice me.
Luckily he did, the photographer and myself went for a coffee in the cafe at the bottom of the lift while Trent sorted out his lift ticket and his ski hire.
Then we headed for the top of the slopes, the weather was'nt too good, it was cloudy and snowing alittle but by the time we got to the top of the slopes the sun came out, so thats why its called Sunshine Ski Resort!
The skiing was excellent, beautiful packed or powder snow, the photographer wanted a head and shoulders shot and an action shot, he managed to get an action shot when we skied through the trees in a foot deep powder snow. As soon as the photographer was finished he had to get off to a function in Banff so Trent and I went off for more skiing, after another hour or so we decided to have some lunch so we went into one of the cafe's.
We both had a Strongbow cider, fish abd chips and a coffee as Trent interviewed me. Next to our table were a group of lads from England, we had a chat, had my photo taken with them, then they went off for some skiing.
Trent eventually finished his interview and we went off skiing with two of his friends, we skied up and down 'Goats Eye' for the rest of the afternoon which had some great double black runs through trees and between rocks and down some steep narrow slopes, my legs were burning by 4.00pm when they started closing down the lifts so we skied all the way down to the car park.
We managed to ski at least half the bowl that Sunshine lift system is situated in and I can thoroughly recommend anyone to go and ski there, you will have a great time whatever your ski ability may be.
I said my thanks and goodbyes to Trent then headed back in the car to Banff where I had a cup of coffee and a cake in a cafe in the high street, the same one as yesterday in fact, while I had my coffee a japanese family saw me and popped in to say hello and have a picture taken.
After my coffee I decided to go and search around the shops for prezzies for Sam and the kids, and also for a pair of skis for me.
I then grabbed a quick bite to eat before heading back to the Hotel for a session in the hot tub to ease my weary legs... life is so hard sometimes.
I watched a bit of tv to relax then off to bed
Friday, February 15, 2008
First Ski Day
Sleeping better now, I went to bed around midnight last night and woke up at 6.00am and then got up at 7.15am
I put the tv on to a music station although I think it was a country music tv station still....it was better than nothing.
I made breakfast then got a call from Monica Andreef a freelance journalist whom I was to go skiing with today. We arranged to meet in the lobby at 10am. Which was great as it gave me enough time to eat breakfast and then to unpack my ski equipement, trouble was that I then received another phone call from a women's magazine in the UK, I had completely forgot that she was going to ring but she said that it would only take 30 minutes or so to do the interview. An hour and 20 minutes later I finally got off the phone, my ear was so sore form being attached to the phone receiver for so long. The time was now 10.20am so I was late. I ran down to the lobby to meet Monica and say hello then I ran back to the room to sort out my ski stuff.
I decided to wear my new Ski Suit that the guys at the Canada Olympic Park gave me was great and Sam would be pleased as she hated me wearing my 80's ski outfit!
We both then set off to the Norquay Ski Area, I picked up my skis and poles from the rental shop and off we went up the hill to start skiing, it felt fantastic to finally be on my skis agian going up a real ski hill (apart from my one run for the torchlight parade at the COP on the 13th)
We skied for a few hours and we bumped into Ken Read, he was a childhood hero of mine when I first started skiing back in 1976, we skied a run with him and he's not a bad skier....for his age!
Monica and I were trying to work out how old he was Monica thought he was around 56 yrs old, I said no he must be at least 64! ...But he did look good.
We popped in the lodge for a coffee and a little rest because Monica twisted her knee when we skied through a few trees and over a couple of rocks. In the lodge I met some of the young racers from the ski club and had my photo taken with them.
Then it was back for a few more runs before Monica's knee becomes unbearable. We skied over to the old jumps, these were very special to me because I used these jumps alot during the Olympics 20yrs ago, everytime the jumping was cancelled at COP because of high wind, I used to come over to Norquay and get some sneaky practice in. It was great to stand on those same jumps now... it brought back so many memories.
We decided to call it a day as Monica's knee was starting to really hurt so we came back to Banff, Monica took me to see the Banff Springs Hotel then dropped me off at my hotel.
I quickly changed then headed into town to have a coffee and a cake a cafe on the high street. A few people saw me in there and popped in to say hello and have photos taken. Then I took a walk around Banff, bought some things for Sam and the children, had some dinner and headed back to the hotel for a session in the hot tub as my legs were tired from all that skiing.
I relaxed for a while before going to bed.
I put the tv on to a music station although I think it was a country music tv station still....it was better than nothing.
I made breakfast then got a call from Monica Andreef a freelance journalist whom I was to go skiing with today. We arranged to meet in the lobby at 10am. Which was great as it gave me enough time to eat breakfast and then to unpack my ski equipement, trouble was that I then received another phone call from a women's magazine in the UK, I had completely forgot that she was going to ring but she said that it would only take 30 minutes or so to do the interview. An hour and 20 minutes later I finally got off the phone, my ear was so sore form being attached to the phone receiver for so long. The time was now 10.20am so I was late. I ran down to the lobby to meet Monica and say hello then I ran back to the room to sort out my ski stuff.
I decided to wear my new Ski Suit that the guys at the Canada Olympic Park gave me was great and Sam would be pleased as she hated me wearing my 80's ski outfit!
We both then set off to the Norquay Ski Area, I picked up my skis and poles from the rental shop and off we went up the hill to start skiing, it felt fantastic to finally be on my skis agian going up a real ski hill (apart from my one run for the torchlight parade at the COP on the 13th)
We skied for a few hours and we bumped into Ken Read, he was a childhood hero of mine when I first started skiing back in 1976, we skied a run with him and he's not a bad skier....for his age!
Monica and I were trying to work out how old he was Monica thought he was around 56 yrs old, I said no he must be at least 64! ...But he did look good.
We popped in the lodge for a coffee and a little rest because Monica twisted her knee when we skied through a few trees and over a couple of rocks. In the lodge I met some of the young racers from the ski club and had my photo taken with them.
Then it was back for a few more runs before Monica's knee becomes unbearable. We skied over to the old jumps, these were very special to me because I used these jumps alot during the Olympics 20yrs ago, everytime the jumping was cancelled at COP because of high wind, I used to come over to Norquay and get some sneaky practice in. It was great to stand on those same jumps now... it brought back so many memories.
We decided to call it a day as Monica's knee was starting to really hurt so we came back to Banff, Monica took me to see the Banff Springs Hotel then dropped me off at my hotel.
I quickly changed then headed into town to have a coffee and a cake a cafe on the high street. A few people saw me in there and popped in to say hello and have photos taken. Then I took a walk around Banff, bought some things for Sam and the children, had some dinner and headed back to the hotel for a session in the hot tub as my legs were tired from all that skiing.
I relaxed for a while before going to bed.
Thursday, February 14, 2008
The Day After
Still waking up in the night, this time it was 4.00am, 5.00am, and finally 7.45 so I decided to get up.
I met Maude in the hotel dining room for breakfast at 8.30am, she was going through some of todays newspapers and she loved the photos that were taken. I especially liked the photos from the rip slide.
I had the biggest bowl of fruit for breakfast as well as some bacon and eggs, it was so nice to have a bit of time to relax.
Maude then took me to the Travel Alberta Office where Elise gave me a crash course in how to "blog". I also managed to ring Sam and find out how the family were doing at home, and I made arrangements for flowers to be delivered to Sam as a surprise for Valentine's Day (The surprise being that they will arrive on the 15th and not the 14th!) Still better late than never eh?
Maude brought me back to the Palliser as I was late for checking out so I quickly packed then walked round to Avis to pick up a rental car, the people at Avis were expecting me at 9 am and in I popped at 4 pm...oops
So off I went on my little adventure driving from Calgary to Banff. I managed to find the Douglas Fir Hotel with a little help from the guys in the petrol station who gave me my final directions.... and I did it without hitting anyone or anything!
My room is great I even have a spa bath in my bedroom its a pity Sam isn't here she would have loved that. The last time we had a spa bath in our bedroom was in the Luxur Hotel in Las Vegas on our honeymoon...but enough about that!
I cooked myself some bacon and eggs and then went for a swim and a sauna, then it was off to bed.
I met Maude in the hotel dining room for breakfast at 8.30am, she was going through some of todays newspapers and she loved the photos that were taken. I especially liked the photos from the rip slide.
I had the biggest bowl of fruit for breakfast as well as some bacon and eggs, it was so nice to have a bit of time to relax.
Maude then took me to the Travel Alberta Office where Elise gave me a crash course in how to "blog". I also managed to ring Sam and find out how the family were doing at home, and I made arrangements for flowers to be delivered to Sam as a surprise for Valentine's Day (The surprise being that they will arrive on the 15th and not the 14th!) Still better late than never eh?
Maude brought me back to the Palliser as I was late for checking out so I quickly packed then walked round to Avis to pick up a rental car, the people at Avis were expecting me at 9 am and in I popped at 4 pm...oops
So off I went on my little adventure driving from Calgary to Banff. I managed to find the Douglas Fir Hotel with a little help from the guys in the petrol station who gave me my final directions.... and I did it without hitting anyone or anything!
My room is great I even have a spa bath in my bedroom its a pity Sam isn't here she would have loved that. The last time we had a spa bath in our bedroom was in the Luxur Hotel in Las Vegas on our honeymoon...but enough about that!
I cooked myself some bacon and eggs and then went for a swim and a sauna, then it was off to bed.
The BIG DAY!
I woke up four more times today, finally waking up for good at 5:30. Got to Canada Olympic Park at 7:00, for a full day of television, radio and print interviews. After two cups of coffee and six muffins {love 'em by the way}, I was ready for the day! Seven or eight tv interviews, a half a dozen radio interviews, and endless print journalist asked me questions about my experiences, and what it was like to be back in Calgary twenty years later, where Eddie "The Eagle" was born! At 11:00 Devon Harris from the Jamaican Bobsled team and I descended into a press conference at the base of the Zipline. There were over 75 media there, with cameras and recorders. I beat the bobsleigh bullitt Devon down the Zipline, to claim my first victory at COP!
Mayor Dave Bronconnier presented Devon and I with official "White Hats", which make us honorary Calgarians. I asked if the horse came with the Cowboy hat, to which Mayor Bronconnier told me to come back at Stampede, when horses will be aplenty! Lunch at the top of the K120 was shared with Canadian Olympic Medalists from 1988, as well as Canadian Olympic Officials from the 1988 Calgary Games to present. Lunch had to wait while I did a quick phone interview with Winapeg Radio. I had to quickly grab a bite to eat before being taken down to do another TV interview then it was off down to the lounge for a coffee and a rest. Called home to Sam to see how she and the kids were getting on. Rest was short lived, as Talk Sport radio came calling for a 15 minute interview.
By this time, the crowds in the day lodge were building, so it took 45 minutes to get through the crowd. I reminisced with some volunteers from the 88 Games, some of whom shared photographs with me, or had me sign anything they happened to be carrying. I made my way down to get suited up for the "Torch Light" descent. COP provided me with new Salamon ski boots, as mine had seen better days. Managed to grab five minutes to try on a ski suit {Sam's fed up with me skiing in my 80's retro outfit}, but was mobbed by well wishers, and had to be rescued! I met the kids that were going to ski with me down the hill, seven strong. The torch I had was actually from the 88 Games, and was provided to me at the top of the run, after a practice session, in formation with the kids. I signed all their helmets, even though they weren't even a twinkle in their parent's eyes when I raced here twenty years ago. Bad luck for me that the proceedings were delayed almost an hour, as the fuel in the torch ran out two minutes before my cue! Panic ensued, the music played on a few more minutes while Chris Dornan {Communications Manager, COP} searched for more fuel.
Went off without a hitch with torch refueled. I remember looking back half way down to see how fantastic it looked to see all the red torches the ski instructors were carrying zig zagging down the hill. I got to the bottom without falling, somewhat confused, as I usually ski down a hill in a straight line! Passed the torch to Gaetan Boucher, four time Canadian Medallist from past Olympics. He then passed the torch to Devon Harris, then on down the line to athletes from Games from 1988-2010. The ceremony to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Calgary Games then took the next 90 minutes, complete with mascots from the Vancouver 2010 Games, who were brought in by three dog sleds!
From 7:30-10:30 I signed anything and everything, posed for pictures, and shared stories with countless volunteers from the 88 Games, who were all wearing their jackets from twenty years ago. Looked fabulous too. I ended up back at the Palliser, crashed on the couch until 2:00 watching the telly, then headed to bed at two....full day indeed, but a day I'll never forget. Has it really been TWENTY years!
Mayor Dave Bronconnier presented Devon and I with official "White Hats", which make us honorary Calgarians. I asked if the horse came with the Cowboy hat, to which Mayor Bronconnier told me to come back at Stampede, when horses will be aplenty! Lunch at the top of the K120 was shared with Canadian Olympic Medalists from 1988, as well as Canadian Olympic Officials from the 1988 Calgary Games to present. Lunch had to wait while I did a quick phone interview with Winapeg Radio. I had to quickly grab a bite to eat before being taken down to do another TV interview then it was off down to the lounge for a coffee and a rest. Called home to Sam to see how she and the kids were getting on. Rest was short lived, as Talk Sport radio came calling for a 15 minute interview.
By this time, the crowds in the day lodge were building, so it took 45 minutes to get through the crowd. I reminisced with some volunteers from the 88 Games, some of whom shared photographs with me, or had me sign anything they happened to be carrying. I made my way down to get suited up for the "Torch Light" descent. COP provided me with new Salamon ski boots, as mine had seen better days. Managed to grab five minutes to try on a ski suit {Sam's fed up with me skiing in my 80's retro outfit}, but was mobbed by well wishers, and had to be rescued! I met the kids that were going to ski with me down the hill, seven strong. The torch I had was actually from the 88 Games, and was provided to me at the top of the run, after a practice session, in formation with the kids. I signed all their helmets, even though they weren't even a twinkle in their parent's eyes when I raced here twenty years ago. Bad luck for me that the proceedings were delayed almost an hour, as the fuel in the torch ran out two minutes before my cue! Panic ensued, the music played on a few more minutes while Chris Dornan {Communications Manager, COP} searched for more fuel.
Went off without a hitch with torch refueled. I remember looking back half way down to see how fantastic it looked to see all the red torches the ski instructors were carrying zig zagging down the hill. I got to the bottom without falling, somewhat confused, as I usually ski down a hill in a straight line! Passed the torch to Gaetan Boucher, four time Canadian Medallist from past Olympics. He then passed the torch to Devon Harris, then on down the line to athletes from Games from 1988-2010. The ceremony to commemorate the 20th anniversary of the Calgary Games then took the next 90 minutes, complete with mascots from the Vancouver 2010 Games, who were brought in by three dog sleds!From 7:30-10:30 I signed anything and everything, posed for pictures, and shared stories with countless volunteers from the 88 Games, who were all wearing their jackets from twenty years ago. Looked fabulous too. I ended up back at the Palliser, crashed on the couch until 2:00 watching the telly, then headed to bed at two....full day indeed, but a day I'll never forget. Has it really been TWENTY years!
12Feb - Training Day!
Woke up at 2:00, then again at 4:00 and once more at 5:00 before finally arising for the day. Had to be at Canada Olympic Park for a morning interview with Canada A.M., one of the nation's national morning programs. We then met some of the executives of COP's Board of Directors, after barging into their Finance committee meeting!We then headed over to K120 Tower for a training run on the zipline. Unfortunately, the elevator was out, so we had to climb up 522 stairs on the outside, with Alastair from the BBC in hot pursuit with his camera. I saw my helmet for the first time in 15 years, which is locked in a glass case at the top of the tower. I'm told all U.K. visitors to the park request to have their pictures taken beside the helmet. With the tailwind on Tuesday, we reached a top speed of 140 kms/hour, then stopped in less than 20 meters; not for the faint of heart, especially as you're about 150 feet above the snow at one point. I remember thinking "If I only had my skis on now, I would panic! It's well worth trying out though.
I then stopped by Travel Alberta's offices to ring home, then off to lunch The Ranche, in Fish Creek Park. Had a lunch of Alberta beef, mackeral, duck, smoked salmon, etc. I then followed that up with a steak, strawberry shortcake and a coffee. Maude then drove me to Deerfoot Meadows shopping centre to shop for a lap top for this world traveler. Prices are better, but not sure about warranties, or what to do if there are any issues...... at least if I have any problems, I have a good excuse to come back to Alberta!
The evening was spent sightseeing and shopping in downtown Calgary, Eau Claire Market, Steven Avenue Mall, then over to the picture house to see "There Will Be Blood" with Daniel Day Lewis.....Brilliant!
Crashed at ten thirty.
I then stopped by Travel Alberta's offices to ring home, then off to lunch The Ranche, in Fish Creek Park. Had a lunch of Alberta beef, mackeral, duck, smoked salmon, etc. I then followed that up with a steak, strawberry shortcake and a coffee. Maude then drove me to Deerfoot Meadows shopping centre to shop for a lap top for this world traveler. Prices are better, but not sure about warranties, or what to do if there are any issues...... at least if I have any problems, I have a good excuse to come back to Alberta!
The evening was spent sightseeing and shopping in downtown Calgary, Eau Claire Market, Steven Avenue Mall, then over to the picture house to see "There Will Be Blood" with Daniel Day Lewis.....Brilliant!
Crashed at ten thirty.
11th Feb - Arrival in Calgary
After a long flight I finally arrive in Calgary. It brought back so many memories of 20 yrs ago, especially the time when I arrived for the Olympics and my bag ripped open so half my clothes were strewn around the baggage carousel!!
I was met by a group of 'White Hats' as well as a few TV crews and journalists it was great meeting everybody and answering their questions, I even wore those thick glasses for a photo!
I then went straight to the Canada Olympic Park (COP) to see the jumps and say hi to staff then it was off to the Palliser Hotel.
I managed to stay awake till 9pm before crashing out, well I was still on GMT time and my body was reminding me that it was 4am!
I was met by a group of 'White Hats' as well as a few TV crews and journalists it was great meeting everybody and answering their questions, I even wore those thick glasses for a photo!
I then went straight to the Canada Olympic Park (COP) to see the jumps and say hi to staff then it was off to the Palliser Hotel.
I managed to stay awake till 9pm before crashing out, well I was still on GMT time and my body was reminding me that it was 4am!
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