Industry News
Eight sit-skiers from across the UK teamed up to break a world record on September 25, 2023. The group met at Chill Factore, an indoor ski area in Manchester, UK, hoping to beat the record for ‘the greatest distance skied by a group using seated equipment in eight hours’. In just over six hours, the group surpassed their target of 44 km, skiing 60.25 km, and 399 total runs.
While going for the Guinness World Record, the group also helped raise money for Disability Snowsport UK (DSUK). Their goal on JustGiving of £3,000 ($3,640) is currently 81% complete, and donations are still being accepted until October 14. Contributions go directly to lessons, equipment, and training services for adaptive skiing. DSUK has been teaching adaptive snowsports for 40 years, and is dedicated to helping create and encourage mountains and ski slopes free from any barriers.
Of the eight skiers involved, ages ranged from 17-39 years old, all from different parts of the country, with varying disabilities. One participant, Duncan White, suffered a spinal injury when he was 20 years old, leaving him in a wheelchair full-time. Prior to his accident, Duncan was a passionate skier. With some help from DSUK, he was able to get back on snow and ultimately be a part of this world record. He told the Nottingham Post,
“I just hope that by breaking the record, our efforts can help to encourage more people with disabilities to get out on the snow and give skiing or snowboarding a go. The sport can give people so much freedom and confidence and it’s also a lot of fun!”
The world record feat was witnessed by volunteers from the local Bridgewater Trafford Rotary Club. Now the group waits for approval by Guinness World Records, hoping to receive their certificate before the start of this ski season.
There are tons of programs and organizations world-wide aimed to help adaptive skiers get out there, learn, and progress. Athletes and individuals continue to push the boundaries within the sit-skiing community, proving that their physical restraints cannot hold them back on the slopes.
