Returning The Fun To Pro-am (Press, 28 July 1983)

The Pro-am dual slalom event at Coronet Peak, historically known for its exciting ski racing and community spirit, is set for a change in 1983 to refocus the event on its original intention. In recent seasons, professional ski racers have dominated the competition, leading to concerns that the event has strayed from its community roots. To address this, event organiser Charlie Adams has announced that certified professional racers will not be allowed to compete this year. The Pro-am, sponsored by the Mount Cook Line, will offer a total prize pool of $1,200, distributed among the top eight competitors. The event is expected to draw significant participation, with an anticipated field of around 100 racers, including local amateurs. The backdrop of the Pro-am includes New Zealand’s national ski team holding training sessions at Coronet Peak after the conclusion of the Europa F.I.S. series at Mount Hutt, which wraps up around August 14. The Pro-am is scheduled for August 21, following a series of races including a national points race and the Coronet Cup events on August 19 and 20. While amateurs participating in the Pro-am can compete for cash prizes, they are required to donate their winnings to the New Zealand Ski Association. Notably, no New Zealand amateur has ever won the event, with Warwick Brown from Taranaki being the last amateur to reach the finals in 1980. The skiing scene is experiencing challenges with weather during weekends, leading to increased absenteeism among weekend skiers. Conditions have resulted in ski fields like Mount Hutt being open for only two days out of the last three weekends, frustrating many who depend on weekend access to the mountains. Winter Olympics coverage in New Zealand will receive heightened attention in 1984, with daily highlights broadcast on television for the Sarajevo Games. TVNZ sports producer Iain Eggleton hopes to include live coverage of key events such as downhill skiing and ice hockey, contingent on operational satellite facilities. In educational innovation, Mount Hutt ski school has implemented a continuous lesson model for ski learners, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., enabling beginners to join whenever they like and progress at their own pace. Another positive development is the Lake County Council's commitment to maintaining the Crown Range road between Queenstown and Wanaka this winter, improving access to regional ski fields like Cardrona, Treble Cone, and Coronet Peak. Daily transport services for skiers are being offered by Danes Back Country and Alpine Helicopters. The annual Queenstown Winter Festival, starting soon, will feature entertaining events including a dog derby, a dog-barking competition, and many other activities catering to diverse interests. With skiing and various festivities, the festival promises to be inclusive, offering fun for both locals and visitors alike.

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