TelemarkThe Art of the Turn: How WTD 2024 United Skiers Worldwide
We wrote an announcement earlier about World Telemark Day 2024
March 2nd, 2024, marked a significant day in the telemark skiing community as enthusiasts around the world celebrated WTD . A standout event took place at Hovden Skisenter in Norway, where the day unfolded as a testament to the passion and camaraderie inherent in the sport of telemark skiing. An impressive turnout of 50 to 60 telemark skiers reveled in the sparkling, fast slush conditions, thanks to the mild weather, showcasing the vibrant and inclusive spirit of the telemark community.
Embracing Telemark Traditions and Innovation
The Hovden event was a family-friendly affair, with both adults and children participating. 22 adults and 15 children took the opportunity to test various telemark boots and skis, equipped with different binding systems. This equipment was kindly provided by the TShark Telemark Promoting Tour, which facilitated free rentals for all participants. Their initiative is a pivotal part of promoting telemark skiing, highlighting the sport’s accessibility to newcomers and seasoned skiers alike.
A Community Supported Event
The success of WTD at Hovden was bolstered by the support of numerous organizations dedicated to the growth and promotion of telemark skiing. Among them were FIS Telemark, the Telemark national team, Freeheel Life, freeheeler.eu, and Shades of Norway, alongside local supporters like Visit Hovden and Agder og Rogaland Skikrets. Their involvement reflects the collective aim to nurture and expand the telemark skiing community, both in Norway and internationally.
Highlights and Memories
A full day of activities ensured that participants of all ages and skill levels had an enriching experience. The TShark Telemark Promoting Tour and Visit Hovden organized free telemark equipment testing, complemented by lessons from Hovden Ski School, emphasizing the event’s focus on learning and community engagement. One of the day’s memorable moments was a group photo, followed by a collective run down the slopes, symbolizing the unity among participants and their shared love for the sport.
A Global Tribe of Telemark Skiers
While the event at Hovden Skisenter was a local celebration,WTD itself is a global phenomenon, celebrating the universal appeal of telemark skiing. The day brings together a worldwide community of freeheel skiers, each sharing a passion that transcends geographical and cultural boundaries. This international aspect underscores the day’s success in fostering a sense of global camaraderie within the telemark skiing community.
Reflecting on the Day
World Telemark Day 2024 showcased the dynamic and growing community of telemark skiers. The Hovden event, with its blend of fun, education, and communal spirit, perfectly captured the essence of telemark skiing. As participants from a wide range of ages and abilities came together, the celebration highlighted the sport’s rich heritage and ongoing evolution. Looking forward, the telemark skiing community continues to embrace the art of the freeheel turn, promising many more years of global celebrations.
Global Participation
WTD 2024 was a testament to the vibrant and growing community of telemark skiers worldwide. The event at Hovden Skisenter, with its focus on fun, learning, and community building, encapsulated the spirit of telemark skiing. As participants of all ages and skill levels gathered to share their love for the sport, the event highlighted the unique blend of tradition and innovation that telemark skiing represents. Here’s to many more years of celebrating the art of the freeheel turn!
