A few days ago I wrote a piece about taking things for granted after we had a water shut down in our home. In that blog I mentioned how we take for granted that the ski lift is going to get us to the top again and again without a hitch. Wow! Would you believe a few days later I experienced my first lift failure in over 50 years on the slopes. Today I was stranded with two companions in my chair on the lift for over an hour until we were safely and efficiently evacuated by the Greek Peak staff and Ski Patrol. When the lift stopped and then began to freewheel backward, I did have a moment of gut wrenching panic. Thankfully the safety brake kicked in and we were brought to a halt. Friend Tim and wife Anne were near the top and noted it was apparent quick action by the lift attendant that brought things to a safe halt.
The photos below give you a sense of what happened as during the evacuation. Kudos to the staff and Ski Patrol at Greek Peak for rapid response and a calm and effective guidance for all of use as we were lowered to the slope. For the younger riders it was fortunate there were companions that helped them with the evacuation procedure. When I landed, I challenged the rescuers find anyone on the lift that was older than my 84 years. I have yet to hear!
I could not have had a better set of companions on our chair. We swapped stories and generally developed a unique collegial relationship. For three people who had never met before, it was delightful endorsement of the collegiality of skiers as a rule. There is a unique bonding that takes place when you are mutually facing and crisis or emergency. Dianne and Graham are pictured below. Dianne who was the brave first one to be lowered, photographed both Graham and me.
We were provided with a shuttle for transport to the lodge. However, Graham has driven to the bottom of the lift, so he kindly transported Dianne and me back to headquarters. We bid adieu and I enjoyed coffee and warm up with friends Tim and Anne. Thanks to texting Tim and I were in communication during our ordeal!
Not problem for finding inspiration for writing this blog!
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| Youngster Lowered Ahead of Us |
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| Dianne and Graham |
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| Me Midair Shortly After Launch |
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| Approaching Landing |
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| Successful Landing |
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