Skiers and snowboarders from Milan, Italy, to London, Ont., are struggling with poor conditions on the slopes.
“This is my official vote to move the Winter Paralympic Games earlier in the season,” wrote Amy Purdy on Instagram. The three-time paralympic medalist aired her frustrations with snow conditions during the winter games.
“Whoever is in charge needs to make some changes,” said Purdy.
The athlete said the slush and ice are a safety concern for athletes, and that the Winter Paralympic Games should not be scheduled close to the spring season.
Local snowboarders are also feeling the change in weather. As March break approaches, some are looking to go down the slopes a few more times this season.
Local snowboarder, Connor Brooks, on the slopes for the season. (Submitted: Connor Brooks)
“The hills run special deals. So I’ve always loved to go down March break and do some snowboarding,” said Connor Brooks. The college student goes snowboarding about five times during the season.
Boler Mountain serves the Southwestern Ontario area with slopes for skiing, tubing, and snowboarding. More than 100,000 people visit the recreational facility each year.
“Mother nature’s definitely thrown a few curve balls at us,” said Greg Strauss, a member of the facility’s management. London was hit with rain showers and warmer-than-usual temperatures this week.
Ski and snowboard runs were open Monday and Tuesday, but closed on Wednesday.
“We’re still optimistic that hopefully we can overcome because the forecast is actually looking pretty good for a good March break,” said Strauss.
Snow showers are expected to hit the city on Friday and over the weekend. Temperatures will dip with a high of only one degree on Saturday.
“I am crazy enough to go out there and still try it, ” said Brooks. “But the experience is definitely deteriorated from midwinter.”
