Indoor Ski Centre - Finally!

Aimib

I'm a long time reader of boards but a first time poster. I'm a regular on the slopes in Kiltiernan and while I enjoy it, I've always felt that it would be nice to have something else available to us to use during the off-season, etc. So, while playing about online the other day I came across this -> http://www.skicentre.ie/ - has anyone else heard anything about it? I'd be really interested to find out more if anyone can be of any use...

masseyno9

opens saturday october 23rd?? but october 23rd is a Thursday???

Aimib

That's true! I hadn't noticed that. I've emailed them looking for info so I'll post it when I get a reply.

iMax

Damn.... I hate when you register to pimp your business & then you screw up the information...

Aimib

It's not my business, mate. I was just wondering if anyone knew anything about it, that's all.

skibum

Website is shi7e, no details of what to expect, I have a funny feeling that it will be one of these:

paddyb

i was told that it just like a giant treadmill - nothing to get excited about!

robinph

Never heard of this thing before, but I think we'd have noticed if a snowdome was getting built anywhere.

Belfry

Yes it is the same design as seen in the video above. The idea has come across from Holland where they have over 100 in over 40 locations. There will be 3 demo days run this bank holiday weekend 10am - 6pm (25th - 27th Oct). There should be some food and drink available. The slope will then open fully to the public on Tuesday 28th Oct.

Can't say much for the website myself but I believe there’s more in development at the moment. As far as I know doors open to the public on the 25th for demos and not the 23rd that the site mentions.

I've been on it a few times and it's different to Kiltiernan, much more intense for those refining their technique and a quicker progression for the beginners. Standard lessons run for an hour with a group of 6. 3 people are on the carpet with the instructor at any given time and they alternate every 10mins. This seemed short to me till I saw it in action and the beads of sweat on the brow of beginners and advanced skiers alike by the start of clients third 10mins. To be honest I don’t think anyone will believe me about the intensity till they see it for themselves, as I definitely didn’t.

It’s worth checking out this weekend so you can make up your own mind. Personally I've enjoyed breaking a sweat on it and can see how it will help my technique especially with the mirror that’s in front of you. Clients are encouraged not to look at their feet but instead at themselves and the instructor through the large mirror in front of the slope. When the instructor says get lower etc. you can see how low/high you really are. This is probably the most interesting part for me personally as I’ve skied a bit and trained with some very good ski instructors, now that I see myself in the mirror I get instant visual feedback that helps me allot with personal refinement.

It’s not Kiltiernan and it’s not meant to be. The slope is operated by an instructor whenever a client is on it. It should be a great facility to learn and develop.

EileenG

Don't get too excited.

http://ucdsnowsports.com/index.php?option=com_forum&page=viewtopic&p=9009

Energizeer

How Naff!