Memories of Winter and More

The last day of winter felt and looked like a typical spring day. It was also the hottest day this month, reaching 8.5C at the top. It was also the day of the Memorial race and like the weather, the turn out was spectacular. With more than 120 entrants it was possibly the biggest number ever. More about this later.

The week has been very warm with crystal clear blue skies and little to no wind. Temperature inversions have occurred each night meaning that snow making could only be done on lower slopes. The slopes were beautifully groomed each night and great fun for big fast carving turns first thing in the morning. They then softened to a slushy consistency by late morning. Some high traffic areas are starting to show the wear and tear. The bottom of Sponars and Antons, Eagle Way and today the top of the Milk Run was getting very thin. Some other piste areas without snowmaking are poor – World Cup and skiers left of High Noon.

Of course all of this is offset with fact there are very few people around and the weather is simply wonderful.

So, now back to today’s race. The theme was “a touch of animal” but several went way beyond this brief to “total animal”. There were very few who didn’t bear some kind of animal theme. The results won’t be in until 5pm this afternoon so I can’t give you any indication who won what. There were a couple of spectacular falls. Some entrants were very fast and some very slow but then it is consistency not speed that wins in the Memorial Race. My photos will give you some indication of the amazing costumes that appeared on the day. Thanks to the race crew and groomers not to mention the generous providers of prizes and the very enthusiastic group of entrants.

Earlier in the week

Rabbit hunting season? Terrorists at the base of Kosi chair?
Doc Michelle - Some animals at the end of the first run

More of the Memorial Race

And more ...

More photos than I can deal with

And more ...

Yes, more ...

There were animals everywhere

All over for another year

Swimming pool at the base of Kosi chair

The forecast is for wind and rain with snow on higher peaks. Based upon forecasts this season I suspect snowfalls will be to lower altitudes than predicted and a little bird has indicated to me that we should expect 15-20cm over Friday and Saturday. There is a big system heading this way for some time around next Tuesday. It may bring some really cold weather and more snow. I’ll go out on a limb and predict a return to winter conditions by the middle of next week. What have I got to lose?

There is a heap of accommodation available in the village for anyone who might like to suddenly rush to Thredbo next week.

Don’t forget to do your bit to return Kosciuszko Park entry fees back to something reasonable? Click here