The excitement of the crowds was almost tangible over the weekend as everyone gathered to purchase their new winter gear or check out potential destinations to their soon-to-be mountain adventures. Thrilling prizes and giveaways were won including our door prizes generously donated by Castle Mountain Resort, Sundance Ski & Snowboard Shop, Revelstoke Mountain Resort, Mount Washington Alpine Resort and many more! Meanwhile, deals were scooped up and folk left, arms laden with shiny new boards, long-sought-for jackets and mitts, or a set of polished skis. Thanks to our lift ticket sponsors, visitors also went home happy with coupons and discount passes to Snow Valley and Rabbit Hill. It was one amazing kick-off to the winter season!

As a result of the hard work put in by the Edmonton Ski Club and its volunteers, the Winter Sport Equipment Sale was a massive success. Individuals and families alike swung by the Swap to pick up gear at great deals, and with the help of its sales reps, many of the visitors found their perfect fit, or were given some great tips on what to look for. Thank you to all those who consigned their old gear to the Sale. A portion of the funds raised went to the Edmonton Ski Club. As a cornerstone of our city's skiing community, it is important for us to all help keep the Ski Club thriving, and we thank you for your participation!

A moving memorial to Deaflympics Games' gold medallist and snow sport enthusiast Stuart Winkler was held at this year's Ski & Snowboard Show. Thank you to all exhibitors, attendees and volunteers who contributed a story to Stuart's board. A selfless and generous human being, Stuart spent a great deal of time volunteering at the Edmonton Ski Club and Snow Valley, and touched the lives of many. The degree to which he will be missed was reflected in the multitude of messages left at the memorial; from close friends, to those who scarce knew him, each message carried a kind sentiment. As a man with a story for everyone, we are sure he would have appreciated each and every memory shared that weekend.

Thanks to our exhibitors, the Now and Then Museum gave attendees a chance to see what our ancestors used when skiing the slopes! Old skis with rickety spring bindings, beaten leather boots and the very first roller ski were on display, along with a collection of old black and white photos bringing to life the winter sport as it existed in the past. It is hard to believe how far winter sports have come in so short a time!

The delicious treats and fresh produce brought to you by Renegades Castledowns Farmers' Market was the icing on the cake at the Show, giving attendees an opportunity to stock up on the tastes of summer before the snow hit. Visitors enjoyed sampling the delicious flavours of cider, honey, and jerky, or stocked their bags with freshly baked cookies. For those who missed the market, you can visit Renegades Castledowns Farmers' Market every Wednesday from 4pm to 8pm at the Castledowns Recreation Centre located on 153 Avenue and Castledowns Road.