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Silverton Mountain ski area reaping benefits from visitor
Herald Staff Writer
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“They wanted to help Shaun (White) learn some new tricks for the Olympics," she said.
Silverton Mountain is known for an abundance of powder: It receives about 550 inches of snow per year. But in halfpipe riding, powder can be a hindrance, and whenever White came to town it seemed to snow, Brill said.
“Every time he came to town it snowed a foot or more," she said. “It was great for us, but obviously it wasn't the best for him in the halfpipe."
Hosting Project X was a good experience for the ski area and one that helped build the business, Brill said.
The builders of the halfpipe used a wide road covered with snow to move equipment in and out of the basin.
The halfpipe was visible to skiers and snowboarders who rode the chairlift and then hiked to the highest peak on Silverton Mountain. But it wasn't accessible unless skiers or snowboarders were transported by helicopter - and even then, they were directed away from the halfpipe.
“I was really impressed on how serious (White) takes this sport and how driven he is to be the best," Brill said.
Some people have criticized the idea of building a massive halfpipe in the deep backcountry. But Brill said Silverton Mountain is all about trying new things and advancing winter sports.
“We've been a progressive ski area, and we like to see people with creative ideas put them to good use," Brill said.
“It's different to have a halfpipe below a bunch of avalanche drains, but it worked," she added. “He was able to land all these tricks, and hopefully he'll bring home gold for us."
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