Pierce Offers Ski Trips for the Disabled

What began as a skiing lesson for one blind Pierce College student has blossomed over more than 20 years into an annual trek to the slopes for people with a variety of disabilities.

Pierce College’s Adaptive Ski School is gearing up for a new session of ski trips for the disabled, with three trips to Mountain High beginning Friday.

“The purpose of these trips is to develop a new skill and build some self-confidence,” said Lynne Haile, founder of the program. “And as far as the able-bodied are concerned, it gives them an idea of what disabled people can do.”

Reservations for this week’s trip are full, but interested people may still apply for the Feb. 21 and March 7 trips.

Transportation and adaptive equipment for disabled skiers are available for $20, which also includes the ski lift and lessons from specially trained instructors, who travel free in exchange for their time.

The school provides 15 spots for the disabled and 30 spots for their able-bodied instructors for a daylong excursion, about six to 10 times each winter.

Haile said the school is not designed to foster regular participation or as an outlet for social skiers, but to introduce disabled people to the sport. Many of her students continue their lessons privately and take trips with family or social groups.

“It is an exhilarating experience for them,” she said. The school, established at Pierce College in 1974, relies solely on corporate and private donations.

For information on the program or to register, call Haile at the college’s Community Services Office at (818) 719-6425.