Sugarbush's creative learn to ski-and-ride program blasts open the door for newcomers

Jan 20, 2011 – SUGARBUSH, VT.  – During January’s National Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month, award-winning Sugarbush Resort is highlighting an introductory program designed to jumpstart teens and adults into a lifetime of snowsport enjoyment.

Sugarbush’s “First Timer to Life Timer” program immerses newcomers into skiing or riding with equipment, lift tickets, lessons and a free season’s pass to some of North America’s best terrain.

After being correctly geared up, First Timers to Life Timers are led through a series of three lessons led by coaches certified by The Professional Ski Instructors of America. At the conclusion of the lessons, participants are awarded a Sugarbush All-Mountain Season Pass for the remainder of the 2010-2011 season.

“This program expertly addresses two needs,” said Sugarbush president Win Smith. “The industry is well aware of the need to grow participation levels in our sports, and we know people crave the ability to give skiing or riding a try in a comfortable, fun atmosphere. And there’s a huge bonus attached, too – the free season’s pass.”

The First Timer to Life Timer ($230) is open to skiers and riders ages 13 and over who have no prior experience with a snowsport. Sugarbush is on pace to put more than 200 first timers through the program this season.

“Your staff was just as excited as I was to be there and even more so to see another person who was brand new wanting to learn the sport,” wrote first-timer Elijah Smith who tried snowboarding at Sugarbush in December. “Thanks to the All Mountain Season Pass that I received from the package, I will definitely be back soon so I can work on linking my turns.”

Sugarbush will continue to enroll participants in the First Timer to Life Timer program throughout the season, even after National Learn to Ski and Snowboard Month concludes.

“We have some of the best skiing and riding still ahead of us,” Smith said. “Somebody who takes part in the program will have great conditions from here on out to improve upon their skills.”

To enroll in the “First Timer to Life Timer” program call (888) 651-4827 or email skiandrideschool@sugarbush.com