An ominous bare patch of grass, rocks and dirt dividing the runs at Laurentian Ski Hill did not deter outdoor enthusiasts from strapping on their skis or snowboards to enjoy the last runs of the hill's shortest season ever.
Of course, it wasn't just the weather that affected this ski season like no other. Government restrictions and health protocols robbed Laurentian Ski Hill and Mattawan's Antoine Mountain of the majority of their operating windows. At times, since Boxing Day, the two centres were among only a handful of facilities closed in Ontario due to the COVID-19 restrictions.
To mark the last day of a season that ran only a couple of weeks, skiers and snowboarders enjoyed a warm, sunny outing with Sunday Funday activities, including an obstacle course hosted by Elite Alpine SX. Families gathered at tables outside the lower chalet, enjoying the fresh air and the first weekend of spring.
Laurentian Ski Hill general manager Mike King acknowledged it was a difficult season for all.
“It was very frustrating for us, the skiers and snowboarders who were dying to get on the hill,” King said. “I’m happy people got to come out and get a little time on the hill.”
He added, “I saw a lot of smiles today. They got some exercise and it was also good for their mental health even though this was probably the shortest season ever.”
King said most understood the prolonged shutdown was due to COVID restrictions “and at the end of the day it’s about complying with the protocols.”
For those who bought season passes, the ski hill is giving them a credit toward next season and, in a handful of cases, some patrons were given refunds. There have been complaints about the refund policy at Laurentian Ski Hill, which can be found here.
“We spent a lot of money getting the hill ready,” King said.
“It cost us a fortune to make snow, to groom it and get the crews out there to get it all done. We spent a lot of money upfront before we had anything like day pass revenue upfront or lesson revenue.”
According to King, the ski hill also did not generate any revenue from the Christmas break and March break camps it holds since they were cancelled and it could only offer private lessons as opposed to group lessons. Add to that the loss in equipment rental.
“So yes, it’s been a very difficult year for us financially for sure,” he said.
King says Laurentian Ski Hill has applied for COVID-related federal and provincial funds. FedNor is making money available as is the Ontario Trillium Foundation to ease the COVID impact on organizations and Laurentian took advantage of wage subsidy programs and smaller grants.
King added, if the larger grants come through, then Laurentian will be in good shape next season.
With files from Rocco Frangione, a Local Journalism Initiative reporter who works out of the North Bay Nugget. The Local Journalism Initiative is funded by the Government of Canada.
