Every year, during the winter semester uOttawa’s annual Ski and Snowboard Club competition, in association with the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa, hosts an event called Le Spin, in which students as well and the public are able to compete in a snowboarding and skiing competition on campus grounds. This year I had the opportunity to sit down with Matthew Dewar, one of the hosts for the event to discuss all the exciting things that go down on the night of the event.
How did you get involved with Le Spin?
I was skiing at Tremblant, and then I met some people through mutual connections and afterwards I ended up getting involved.
What is your background with regards to Skiing and Snowboarding?
I taught at a few skiing resorts, I have 14 years of experience in skiing and snowboarding, and I enjoy it as a hobby.
What is Le Spin for those whom don’t know?
It is an opportunity for people to come out and show their rail sliding abilities.
What is the process like leading up to the grand event?
A lot of work. We don’t hire anyone for labour, so it’s just us and a handful of volunteers setting everything up the night of the event.
Why do you think students should participate in it?
To be honest it’s a hard thing to participate in because you have to be skilled at hitting rails. There is prize money given out to those who are competitive and would like to challenge themselves and win something!
How did this year’s event go?
This year’s event was successful! On the men’s side we had Justin Mallory in first place, second place was Sean McElligott and third place was Austin De Site Croix. In the women’s side we had Natalie Allport in first place–she definitely has Olympic potential, Emmanuelle Boudreau in second place and third place was Alejandra Valesquez.
First place winners won $130, Second place winners won $80 and third place winners got clothing gear amongst other things from one of our sponsors, Top Of The World.
What sort of sponsors do you have for the event?
It’s hosted by the Ski and Snowboard Club which is in association with the Student Federation of the University of Ottawa and we have yearly sponsors from Redbull, Top of the World Skateshop, OAK’s Skate Shop and Pabst Blue Ribbon.
Why is this an event students should not miss out on?
It’s high energy and for many students it is a new experience to see an aspect of freestyle skiing and snowboarding. The athletes competing are at risk of being injured and some put their lives on the line to be crowned the winner. However, there are also many talented riders that participate for fun and all of the riders put on an great show for the crowd.