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Don’t Ever Stop: The 50 Year Ski Instructors

We post a lot of video of young people doing fun, stupid things on this site. Jumping off cliffs, jumping bikes, getting two-wave hold downs in big surf, shredding gnarly lines, etc. 

RELATED: Garrett Russell and the last of the warrior ski ninjas

But when you see a video about two ski instructors–Christian Keller and Franz Pichler–who are celebrating their 50th season teaching newcomers to love time on snow, it's hard not to be just as impressed, or just as inspired. Both are strong advocates of the idea that as long as you're enjoying speed, whether it's skiing, running, or even just thinking fast, no matter your age, you're having a ball. Amen!

Kids have to start somewhere and most of the really dedicated instructors and programs come from those that are engineered just for kids. Our head of operations has been a ski instructor for more than 60 years and is not unique in the US.  As one of the founders of PSIA,  he is still dedicated to ensuring that the beginning skiers and boarders get the best instruction available. Bad instruction = a bad experience. And visiting the mountains once a year with mom and dad does not make for a life-long skier. Support your local programs and local dedicated instructors!

About The Author

stash member Ryan Dunfee

Former Managing Editor at Teton Gravity Research, current Senior Contributor, current professional hippy at the Sierra Club, and avid weekend recreationalist.