Athlete Profile

After 5 years in Whistler, Melanie made the move to Revelstoke, BC, presumably to get as close as she could to Rogers Pass. Self employed to free up as much biking and skiing play time as possible, Melanie doesn't let the moss grow around her feet. Pursuing ski mountaineering racing since 2006, Melanie has competed in 3 World Championships as a member of the Canadian National Ski Mountaineering Team. When she's not racing she's leaving recreational mountaineers in the dust while bagging first descents, the occassional traverse speed record, or just some quality fun in the mountains around Revelstoke.
 

Q&A

• Favourite G3 Gear Without hesitation the Infidel skis! They are light for a mid fat ski. The reverse camber makes them fun to ski in deep powder but they are really fun in pretty much any conditions. They are stable at high speed and hold an edge on icy conditions. Fun guaranteed everyday no matter what conditions you find.
• Favourite Peak Mt Begbie near Revelstoke (2733M); a landmark that we can see from anywhere in town. I have been to the peak twice (summer and winter). I love it because it’s hard work to get up there but so rewarding.  When in town, I find myself day dreaming about the next time I will get up there again!
• How Did You Get Started Backcountry Skiing My first introduction to backcountry skiing was through an organized ski trip from the Escape Route in Whistler. I started with nothing less than the Spearhead Traverse in 3 days. From there I was completely hooked. I bought a set-up right after our trip and it’s been a love affair ever since!
• Favourite Backcountry Accomplishment It’s hard to pick as there has been so many great trips in the past years! I would have to go with the Southern Icecap traverse in Patagonia in 2008. Over 12 days of bushwalking, fighting our way through raging winds, snow & rainstorms, we had 1 sunny day and it was one of the best days of my life. It was an unforgettable traverse and a lot of character building - so amazing.
• Best Backcountry Advice Received Somebody told me to "Respect the mountains and they will look out for you”.
• Skiing Bucket List For this season, it's all about Europe. Ski the famous Haute Route (Chamonix- Zermatt), multiple hut-to-hut trip in the Alps, and ski some amazing couloirs throughout Europe.
• I Choose G3 Because G3 is an innovative and local company who provides high quality equipment that can be trusted no matter how remote or how far your destination is.