Off-piste week 2023

The ski season at Powder Mad 2023 was nothing short of extraordinary. From the seemingly endless adventures across various locations, it was a season that etched unforgettable memories in the hearts of all who ventured into its wintry embrace.

Powder Mad Reunited: At the heart of it all, we kicked off the season with a momentous gathering at Kumari and Jonnies’ cozy chalet, nestled near the charming village of Vilaroger. Little did we know that this gathering would set the stage for an epic season filled with adventure, old friendships rekindled, and new connections forged.

The annual get-together at Kumari and Jonnies’ chalet was a roaring success, igniting a flame of excitement that would fuel spirits throughout the entire season. It was a jubilant occasion, as familiar faces converged with an electric energy. The dynamic duo of Mike Pearson and Pete Symonds, our intrepid skiing companions from our Ukrainian escapade in January 2022, brought back their infectious enthusiasm, lighting up the group with their presence.

But that was just the beginning of our star-studded reunion. Amidst the buzz of anticipation, an awe-inspiring figure emerged from the shadows of the past: Dom Heath. It had been an astonishing 25 years since myself and Dom`s paths last crossed working together at Ski Beat in the glory days of the 90s. The nostalgia was palpable as we embraced, feeling as if we had stepped into a time warp, reliving the golden moments of our youthful ski adventures.

The cast of skiing legends continued to grow as Ian Ansell joined us, our intrepid heli-skiing buddy from the unforgettable Georgia expedition the previous year. As destiny would have it, the tribe expanded even further with the arrival of Jo Pearson and Andy Bradley, two passionate skiers whose infectious fervor promised to set the slopes ablaze.

As we gathered together, a united force of adrenaline-seeking comrades, we couldn’t help but feel the electric buzz in the air. The names of six legendary ski resorts (les Arcs, La Plagne, Val d’isère, St Foy, Tignes, La Rossiere) danced on our lips over our the first dinner teasing us with the promises of thrilling descents and with each passing day, we planned to ski one resort after another.

Amidst delightful feasts, abundant laughter, lively melodies (Mike Pearson) and ever-changing snow conditions, we were finally graced with a fresh layer of powder during the last days of the week. Dom and I, enticed by the allure of the soft stuff, made the decision to extend our stay and relocated to St Foy to fully indulge in these conditions.