japan2012

Skiing Day Three:Monday  Jan 9.

Day 3 and light snow throughout the day with clearing breaks and even some sun shine breaking through for short periods. Temperature was a chilly -10C and stayed around that all day. Morning skiing was at Niseko Village, Higishiama, with smorgasbord lunch at the Hilton for approximately $20Au. David managed to eat his body weight in Hilton Buffet. All skiers are finding their legs and skiing stronger and longer. Powder was hard to find  after about 10.00am, but for the persistent and sneaky there were some patches of thick white fluffy to be found until 1.00pm. Some ate early and skied after lunch, others skied through and enjoyed a late lunch. All were exhausted by 4.00pm as the evening descended. At the Hilton Marg Churcher and Tory indulged themselves at the luxurious Onsen at the Hilton. The Bar has now been raised.

As always the evening meal is a quest to find the best Japanese Niseko has to offer. Last night the Pikes returned to the seafood/oyster bar to indulge in the freshest oysters sourced from the icy waters of Hokkaido. The Herons went to Wasi Bar for Ramen. Others made the most of the caravans that set up every evening and serve
curries and Ramen for the cash strapped students. The Onsen, as always, soothes away the days’ aches and pains.

In summary: Some nice photos were taken and have been included on this page, Jake took lines off Ross – and nearly took Ross out in the process, Courtney got one back on Dad, Tory saved Tod – or at least his ski as it was buried 30cm into the powder and 15m above where the “out” started, Boyz bought animal suits and went skiing under lights, Mick wasted Dave and Jon last run of the day on moguls, Quentin and Greg now managing their own group and Neil’s dodgy hamstring lasted the day!

So another day awaits tomorrow. Everyone is still in good shape and more snow is forecast. (Absolutely bucketing as I sit here – 10.00pm, 20 cm in the last 90 minutes.)

Ross Cruising

Jon enjoying