When senior Moira McKinnon woke up Jan. 31 to the sound of her alarm clock, her “relaxing” day on the slopes was just beginning. Getting a late start after oversleeping about 30 minutes, McKinnon missed the Alpine Club bus to Fernie, B.C., and had to drive herself. But according to McKinnon, the stress was worth it. McKinnon’s attempt to go to Fernie was just one example of the desire that Alpine Club members have to speed down the slopes together — and the lengths that they will go to be together. “The snow was OK, but it was just good to be there with my friends,” said McKinnon. “Besides, we got free pizza in Eureka.” McKinnon reached Fernie in about 90 minutes. The bus took approximately three hours to cover the same ground, carrying about 78 students. McKinnon said that the club often focuses on having fun, but still does more than just goof off in order to earn funds for their pricey trips. “We do the concessions at games, wax skis and dances,” said McKinnon. “But this year we haven’t had to do many fund-raisers, since we have plenty of money.” Alpine Club often takes more than just a few trips per year. Last year, they took two trips to Fernie, according to McKinnon. So far this year, they have taken two trips: one hiking in eastern Glacier Park and the other to Fernie. The club also goes snow boarding and telemarking while on their skiing trips. Senior Ben Parsons hopes that the club’s next trip won’t be as disappointing as their last trip to Fernie, even though he enjoyed himself. Said Parsons: “Even though the snow was pretty shoddy, I had a good time with the other members of the club. But I am hoping that our next trip will be even better.” |
