Texas Tech University - La Ventana Yearbook (Lubbock, TX)

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Snow brings thoughts of slopes At the first sign of snow, the first thoughts of many Tech students were of the slopes. Skiing has become one of the most popular winter sports on the Tech campus. On almost any weekend, No- vember through March, Tech stu- dents could be seen packing their cars and heading for one of the nearest skiing resorts. The Sierra Blanca ski area in Rui- doso, N.M., was the closest resort fo?- Techsans, being approximately a five hour drive. Other areas often fre quented by students were the Rei River area boasting two major sk slopes and Aspen and Vail, Colo. Once students hit the slopes ther was instant excitement. For those ski ing for the first time, many found long day of frustration awaited there One Tech coed said The first time used the lift I fell out of the chair an( tripped the person riding with me. Be fore we could get out of the way, wi tripped the people in the chair behin us and the lift had to be stopped until ' we moved out of the way. I could have died! Before the day was over, many be- ginners had given up the cold wet slopes for the warmth and security of the lodge, complete with hot chocolate and a fireplace surrounded by friends. Others were more persistent and stayed on the slopes the entire day. Some beginners advanced far enough in their skiing ability to travel down the intermediate slopes. For the advanced skier, the excite ment of soaring down the power- packed slopes was indescribable. Many students attempted daring stunts or even ballet skiing. After a full day or weekend of ski- ing, many students found a tube of Ben Gay or Deep Heat Rub helpful for those aching muscles. Many students prepared for a week- end of fun by taking the skiing course offered at Tech for a $100 lab fee. Stu- dents received 21 hours of instruction at Oshman ' s Sporting Goods. Stu- dents were taught to ski on a dry car- pet ski deck that revolved at six miles per hour. After passing the course, students were usually able to master most intermediate slopes. Clothing on the slopes varied from the best in ski wear to anything that would keep students warm. Some stu- dents invested in expensive matching ski suits, complete with skis. Others were satisfied with scotchguarded jeans, a warm sweater and coat. After a day of running into trees, having skis stuck in snow and mo- gals, skiers usually retired to a quiet fireside with friends or joined the fun and dancing at one of the local disco- theques. CB

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