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Snowboarding News - April 2009
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Thursday, 30 April 2009Nikita Chickita Europe 2009 was a blast! Thirty five girls from all nationalities including Swiss, Italian, Austrian, German, Slovakian, Polish, Slovenian, Croatian, Dutch, Swede and Finnish travelled to make this year’s contest the best EVER! Thanks to everyone who made it such a super sick event.
The weather gods were with us and similar to last year, the day began with some light snowfall with the afternoon clearing up to let in some sunshine. Mexx and Flo, the shapers, made sure the girls had a great course to ride with two kicker lines, a stairs set with a down flat down kinked box and rail combo or choice of a flat box to picnic table, finished off with a tyre jibb and wallride.
The atmosphere was happy and relaxed from the start. At registration the girls came to collect their goodie bags, stoked that each got one despite the contest being free to enter. Every girl had a Polaroid picture taken which was pinned to a board and displayed in the chill out area next to the course so everyone could see who was riding. It also made it easier to know who’s who by what they were wearing, especially as the Nikita Chickita rule is strictly no bibs. No point in covering up a girl’s style, right!?
After warm ups the thirty-three girls in the women’s category started out the qualifiers with three runs each. The two amazing juniors also stomped the course and impressed the judges. The girls pushed themselves throughout and the riding was immense; most girls doing spins of 3s and 5s and hitting up the stairbox with double kinked rail. After all the qualifications, 11 finalists from the womens were chosen and as the juniors killed it with their runs, they both went through to the finals.
We had a great crew judging the contest in the form of Nikita team riders Julia Baumgartner (Austria), Sabrina Kusar (France), Ana Rumiha (Croatia and Nikita Chickita 2008 winner) and Maude Richon (Switzerland).
Things stepped up again in the final with an even more impressive standard of riding; more spins including 720’s and junior Klaudia Medlova from Slovakia, at just 15 years of age was the only girl to be doing backflips.
Nikita Chickita Norway winner Cecilia Larsen from Sweden clinched first with some solid runs throughout the course of the day, never missing a trick. She pulled out a frontside 5 to cab 5, 50 50 to frontside boardslide on the kink box and a super high wall ride, all on just on one run! The judges unanimously agreed she was this year’s winner saying “Cecilia ROCKS!” She has a great style, super smooth and continued to pull out some impressive stuff like the 50 50 180 to switch 50 50 on the double kink box.
In second place was the silky smooth Cilka Sadar from Slovenia who had some fine runs including a frontside 5, switch backside 180 on the biggest kicker and in other runs hit the box, 5050 180 out, a backside 3 and frontside 7, the only 7 of the contest.
Third place winner was Anais Cettou, champion of the recent Nikita Goodie Lady Session in Switzerland. She landed a backside 3 cab 5 among her runs and just pipped Nikita Chickita Europe 2007 winner Steffi Hamman for third place.
Another mention of the juniors is a must. Klaudia Medlova from Slovakia really surprised and impressed the judges. She was a definite contender in the final and if she had the same run and luck as her qualifiers, would have made the top five for sure. She pulled out a front 5 and backflip, the only backflip of the comp. She clinched the top spot for the juniors ahead of Katarzyna Rusin, who did a backside 3 frontside 3, wallride and tried out the double kink box. Definite big ups to the juniors, the judges appreciated your style!
The judges enjoyed the contest as much as the girls seemed to and last year’s winner Ana Rumiha said she “had the same fun riding as judging this year”, also because of local shredder and team champ, the ‘easy style’ Julia Baumgartner.
The chill out area next to the course provided plenty of tunes between shaper Flo playing some select tracks from his i-Pod and DJs RythmusGymnastik giving a taster of what was to come at the after party in the evening. Those in need of some TLC got a custom massage from El Forage one of the top 5 masseurs in the world. As always he was dressed for the occasion in a black and white Mexican wrestling mask. Eerie but well appreciated.
So after the contest everyone headed down the mountain for some après ski drinks, freshened up, ate dinner and headed to the Patschi Bar for the after party. The prize giving took place first with the winners of the juniors and womens getting huge bags of goodies including Nikita streetwear and outerwear, Lomography cameras, Coal beanies, Dakine bags, Les Ettes perfume bottles and more. Cecilia won the first prize of 1000 Euros and a one year contract with Nikita, in second Cilka got 500 Euros and third place Anais, 250 Euros.
Then party – the best yet! The bar was packed and RythmusGymnastik got everyone pounding the floor with a wide selection of well known tunes. The Nikita Chickita party is definitely famous in Serfaus! Some bemused locals joined in the fun with all the Nikita girls and crew, loving the atmosphere and the DJs set which had everyone jumping. The massage table was out again with a few people taking the opportunity to experience something new – massage and party in one!
Nikita want to say a BIG THANKS to all the girls that came to this year’s event, you guys made it happen! Some had travelled a long way just to be there and we’re looking forward to seeing you again next year for an even bigger and better event!
For more details on this news, please contact Michelle Rushbrooke at Nikita Iceland T: + 354 551 0032 UK T: + (0) 1206 855 710 or michelle@nikitaclothing.com.
Monday, 27 April 2009Agoda.com, an online travel company specializing in discount Asia hotel bookings, unveiled its Top 10 "Adventure Resorts" in the Asia/Pacific region. The survey is a response to the emerging trend of "Adventure Tourism" which is becoming increasingly popular. Adventure travel includes physical activity, interacting with local culture, and engaging with nature. The Asian/Pacific region is an amazi ng place for adventure tourism because it is a vibrant and culturally rich expanse with a wealth of natural beauty.
Mr. Michael Kenny, CEO of Agoda.com remarked, "In the past, adventure tourism was only for a niche group of tourist, focused mainly on the activities themselves and generally not for the faint of heart. Adventure tourism has evolved and become increasingly popular because the activities are tailored to individual needs, including luxury accommodation in remote areas."
"Present day adventure resorts strike a balance between comfort and luxury with challenging and exhilarating adventure activities. We hope Agoda's Top 10 Adventure Resorts will provide good options for travelers that want a little more than just sitting by the pool." Mr. Kenny added.
Agoda's Top 10 Adventure Resorts are:
1. Taj Safari Resort, Mahua Khoti, India Experience the thrill of twice-daily jungle safaris, nature walks with trained naturalists and elephant treks in India's Bandhavargh Provincial Park, home to the highest concentration of tigers in Southeast Asia. The 12 luxurious village huts provide an ideal home base from which to explore some of India's greatest wonders.
2. Amankora, Bhutan Aman Resorts offers five opulent lodges strategically placed for a trek through pristine and mystical Bhutan. With each lodge offering something unique, guests may choose to stay at one or all of the lodges, while trekking through some of the world's most remote areas. Itineraries can be designed according to guest's specifications, thus providing an endless selection of breathtaking adventures.
3. Four Seasons, Golden Triangle, Thailand Accessible only by riverboat, the Four Seasons has created 15 luxury tents in the heart of Southeast Asia. Thailand's Golden Triangle, a remote region that borders Myanmar and Laos, is the ultimate adventure hideaway. This amazingly beautiful area offers a wealth of pulse pumping activities and experiences, including elephant treks, mountain hikes, and river tours.
4. Elephant Safari Park Lodge, Bali, Indonesia Enjoy a gourmet breakfast, complemented by the sights and sounds of elephants migrating to a lake for their morning bath. Guests are encouraged to interact with the elephants by taking treks through the Taro forests, assisting in bathing, and spending time at the feeding and petting areas, while learning more about the life of these regal pachyderms.
5. Freedom Inn Niseko, Japan This tranquil retreat, situated in the scenic countryside of Hanazono, Hokkaido, boasts views of mountains, streams, and volcanic peaks. The recently opened Hanazono 308 Base Lodge and the Niseko United Ski lifts are just a short distance away, in addition to winter activities that include skiing, snowboarding, snow trekking, snowmobiling, and horseback riding. Guests are invited to relax at the hot springs bath located on the opposite side of the mountain for a truly refreshing experience.
6. El Nido Resorts Lagen Island Palawan, Philippines Explore the 45 islands and islets that surround this beautiful tropical resort and offering endless opportunity for adventure, nature appreciation, mountain trekking, and climbing. Miniloc Island is a great place for snorkeling and getting up close and personal with schools of fish right off shore. Kayak around the big and small lagoons or venture to Cadlao Island for trekking, and a walk to the inland lagoon at Nagkalit-kalit.
7. River Kwai Jungle Raft, Kanchanaburi, Thailand Let the world's entire worries float away on the River Kwai at this tranquil jungle raft resort. Explore nearby caves and waterfalls via canoes or elephants and enjoy the thrilling yet peaceful surroundings. Guests are encouraged to get involved with the local Mon tribes, watch ritual dances, and partake in local customs.
8. Bamurru Plains Hotel, Kakadu, Australia Hidden in the Australian savannah, nine luxury safari-tent suites provide an ideal oasis from the fast pace of modern life. With no phones or televisions, only highly attentive staff, the resort caters to those seeking to be reacquainted with nature while leaving the chaos of city life behind, if only for a short while.
9. Laos Spirit, Luang Prabang, Laos Located in the mountains of Laos along the Nam Khan River, this eco-friendly resort offers refurbished French Colonial buildings as a home base for some of the best trekking and hiking in Southeast Asia. Experience the splendor of unspoiled nature and the welcoming qualities of the local people at this majestic mountain hideaway.
10. Hin Tok River Camp @ Hell Fire Pass, Kanchanaburi, Thailand Twenty rustic, eco-style luxury tents overlooking the River Kwai offer a fulfilling change to the luxury hotels of Bangkok. Just two hours outside of Bangkok, this resort is an ideal base from which to explore the nearby Lawa Cave and a myriad of inspiring attractions.
For more details on this news, please visit www.24-7pressrelease.com.
Sunday, 26 April 2009While Washington and Wall Street struggle to boost the ailing economy, mountain resorts across the country fight the downturn with their own stimulus plan - great discounts on ski vacation packages for the 2009 spring skiing and riding season.
According to RealAdventures, a website popular for its extensive range of global travel listings and travel industry forecasts, consumers are pl anning spring skiing getaways across the country and taking advantage of the winter-like conditions that have lasted well into March. Warmer temperatures, lower gas prices and off-the-slope attractions are also contributing to the popularity of spring ski weekends.
"The ski industry is reporting a decent 2008-2009 season, highlighted by early winter and late February snow storms," says Vik Kachoria, founder and CEO of RealAdventures. "With the spring skiing and riding season underway, RealAdventures is reporting an increase in travel inquiries to mountain resorts, signaling a rise in spring skiing vacations from year's past."
The down economy has forced many spring breakers to forego a destination vacation this year and consider trip options closer to home. Ski and snowboard vacations have a large appeal and feature savings on airfare, ski-and-stay packages and discounted lift tickets.
More than a dozen ski resorts in Vermont are offering lift tickets for $39 or less and other resorts are featuring a spring season ticket for as little as $99. Skiers are also flocking to destinations like Utah and Tahoe, California where late winter storms have brought near perfect skiing and riding conditions.
With more than 500 ski resorts in the United States alone, from Aspen to the Alps, the ski and ride section of the RealAdventures website helps skiers and snowboarders better plan their of spring ski vacation. Whether it be accommodations, adventure listings or off-the-slopes attractions, RealAdventures provides ski enthusiasts with customized quotes and detailed information with the click of a button.
For more details on this news, please visit www.24-7pressrelease.com.
Friday, 24 April 2009North Real Estate today announced the listing for a one-of-a-kind property - Someday Resort located in West Dover, Vermont. The 37-acre property is unique in that it includes its own 9-hole golf course, indoor and outdoor tennis courts and multiple homes.
The property's exceptional setting, facing Mount Snow, provides spectacular views of the surrounding mountains. The property includ es four homes, indoor and outdoor tennis courts, outdoor pool, and of course, Vermont’s only privately owned 9-hole golf course that includes 2 par fives and an island green.
"We're pleased to offer this unique property in such a spectacular area. The greater West Dover community is going through a revival since Mount Snow has changed ownership and implemented major upgrades to the mountain. Someday is located conveniently close to all of the area's amenities. This one-of-a-kind property is perfect for a family estate, for conversion to a bed and breakfast or for the development of an exclusive community," said Sharon North Vilcins of North Real Estate.
North Real Estate specializes in the location & sale of Residential, Land & Commercial property. Over the years we have built many private houses in the valley. Our rental department represents over 200 privately owned properties which we rent for both short and long term periods.
Someday is an incredible resort experience. Have you ever dreamed of having your own golf course! That's right, your own course, no rangers, no crowds, no waiting. Well you've found it at Someday. Someday is an incredible retreat that offers year-round activities. In the Spring, Summer and Fall guests can enjoy golf their your own 9-hole golf course, tennis on indoor and outdoor (clay) courts and a private swimming pool. Other area activities include hiking, biking and nearby boating and jet skiing. In the winter Someday is the perfect getaway only two-minutes from Mount Snow. Guests can enjoy skiing, snowboarding, snowmobiling, tubing and other great activities and within minutes of Someday.
For more details on this news, please visit www.businesswire.com.
Wednesday, 22 April 2009Continuing to expand its product offerings to customers, Gap Inc. (NYSE:GPS) today announced that its newest brand, Athleta, is now available through the company’s online platform.
Athleta, a popular women’s sports and active apparel brand, takes its place as the “fifth tab” on the company’s unique Universality online platform, providing a shopping experience that’s simple, easy and co nvenient. Customers can now shop the Athleta brand alongside Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy and Piperlime – with one shopping cart and a flat shipping rate of $7.
“Over the past ten years, Athleta has evolved as a premier lifestyle brand with a strong following of loyal customers in the rapidly growing women’s active wear sector,” said Toby Lenk, President, Gap Inc. Direct. “We wanted to make sure we brought Athleta’s authenticity and distinctive appeal to life on our ecommerce platform, and we’re excited to unveil it today to the millions of customers that shop with us online.”
Last year, Gap Inc.’s online net sales reached just over $1 billion. The company continues to improve customers’ shopping experiences through innovative technology improvements, such as Universality, as well as new brand opportunities, like Piperlime and Athleta.
Acquired by Gap Inc. in September of 2008, Athleta offers stylish and functional high-quality apparel for women for a variety of sports, including running, skiing, snowboarding, surfing and yoga. Customers can also continue to make purchases from the brand’s popular catalog.
For more details on this news, please visit www.businesswire.com.
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