thought this was interesting on todays japan times:

http://www.japantoday.com/jp/news/401881

Well done lads!

good job

These guys really did a great job.

nice link SC. Some good photos too. Is that where you live?

Tubby, I wished I lived there. I live in Tokyo but I have been to Hakkoda before riding with Simon. Georgeous place, recommended!

Reading something like that always makes me wonder, especially being in Niseko, what will happen when this happens around here. Who knows what really happened before the aussie's got there but they did a fantastic job.

Yesterday, whilst riding in Hanazono for a few quick runs before work, I watched in amazement as scores of people ducked ropes and traversed across the face above Hanazono, all trying to get some fresh pow, 3 days after rain and 45cm of fresh snow on top. Something tragic will happen here sooner or later but there won't be enough experienced people around to help.

Very few people ride with gear and although not steep in many places, avalanches happen on 30 degree pistes all the time, especially when conditions aren't ideal.

For those who don't know what they are doing, please don't endanger others by riding above people on open faces, make sure you are prepared if you are going into the back country or even ducking the ropes. You never know when it will be you having to dig people out.

Regarding the Hakkoda accident, there is now a rumour making the rounds in the Japanese BC circles. I do not want to say anything here since, as far as I know, there is no definite conclusion as to what triggered that slide.

As for Niseko, the fact that it is mostly low angle does not mean it will not slide as you rightly pointed out. 25 degree slopes can slides with the right conditions.

Somebody riding purposefully above you in the BC is guilty of attempted manslaughter and should be dealt with accordingly.

m8, I am sure that you recognize that the Hakkoda accident is a pretty sensitive issue for many people. I don't think it is a wise strategy to post in a public forum that there is a rumor unless you are willing to share it.

actually I do not think the accident was sensitive. It was a tragedy like many other avalanche accidents (and I am not saying that I do not feel sorry for what happened to these peeps, on the contrary). The reason I am mentionning it is 'cos I am wondering whether anybody has heard anything similar, but it seems not since there were no reactions. If not then it is better to leave it at that otherwise I am myself purporting something that is probably innacurate. It is a fine line to walk. We can talk about it next time I see you.

Reading this worries me!
We are 2 days out of Niseko - currently in Tokyo - and I have been checking the Avie reports every day for the past couple of weeks. I have no intention of heading BC - I will be Piste Running and chasing the kids down to keep them in sight. But I think it is vital that everyone on (or around) the snow is aware of the current conditions. We are travelling with friends who may chose to duck ropes and do some hiking into the BC - and *I* will definately have the info at the ready for them.

I have scored a great backpack with shovel and probe pockets and I am almost tempted to buy these items and carry them - except I am just likely to fall on them and hurt myself!! LOL Why people who are ACTUALLY taking these risks are not going out there prepared is just beyond me!!!

Mamabear, I would recommend you get an introduction to the BC by a friend who has some experience or a guide so that either of them can explain to you the ins an out. It may seem a bit daunting or dangerous but if you go with the right people and the right equipment it is relatively safe and enjoyable (although there is never zero risk). You can start very easy and learn slowly. Being aware of the weather conditions is always important as well.

I think in Niseko you probably have more risk falling into a creek in early season or hitting a tree.

A friend just came back from Niseko and told me it was all tracked out by 10am.

Mamabear, just buying the stuff won't help. It will get you into trouble if you think that stuff is intuitive enough to use. You need BC safety training before you even think of buying that stuff.

With so many kids, you need to be safety trained for them as well.

a course rider does not need gear

May beg to differ on this FT. There have been several inbounds avis back in the states this year. one a few days ago at Squaw. While FT is right. 99.9% of the time you don't need it may come in handy if your caught in it or may be able to lend a hand to patrolers.

so you're differing for 0.01%? (I'd even say the odds of an inbounds avy are less than that)

depends where you ski. So far this year I know of 3 different inbound avalanches. Ok so none are here in Japan. But inbounds avi do happen

are you kidding quattro? need gear to ride the courses?

if youre on a steep course (inbounds) that just got pounded by 2 feet of snow, then there is a good chance it could slide which is why resorts close off certain runs after huge dumps...or use avie control which Japan doesnt do too much of...

wattiewatson

I think your missing my point. There are ares that are inbounds that do slide. Even after patrol may have given it the go ahead. Or have some dipstick ride a closed run and send a bunch of snow down on people that may be below. If you are going to be on some green groomers most likely you don't need it. Living in Japan most ski areas you probably don't need to carry. But there are many other resorts in the world that having gear may not be a bad idea.


Beside it cant hurt to carry it. I generally have keep all my stuff in one pack and find it easy to just grab it. Servers two purpose's my gear is with me and two lesser of a deal it keeps me used to skiing with a loaded pack.
Do I always carry it no. Depends on were I'm skiing. Do all patrollers have avalanche training no.