The Deseret News Ski School will hold its 50th reunion on Nov. 15.
During this, the 50th anniversary of the ski program, the Deseret News is inviting all of the past ski instructors to a special reception after the first class at Sugarhouse Park.Just how many ski instructors are on the alumni list no one knows. Each year, however, between 75 and 100 ski teachers are needed to fill requirements of the program. Assuming there was a complete turnover each year, this would place the total number at 4,000 to 5,000.
"We know, however, that a number of people taught over several years. Also, a number of instructors have moved to other parts of the country. We don't expect that many, but it would be nice," said Steve Handy, marketing director for the Deseret News.
"As part of the 50th year, we thought it would be nice to get the instructors together. Let them renew old acquaintances and relive some of their teaching experiences."
The reception will be from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the park. No invitation, no reservations are necessary.
"Simply show up, introduce yourself and enjoy the day," added Handy.
The first Deseret News Ski School was held near the No. 1 green at Bonneville Golf Course in 1948. Official count put the first class of students at more than 2,000.
In the early years, the ski school was offered at several resorts, including Alta, Brighton, Timp Haven (Sundance) and even Little Mountain, which was a small resort at the top of Emigration Canyon.
In recent years it has traditionally opened with a dry-land session at Sugarhouse Park, then moved to Alta for the remaining three classes.
This year the first class will begin at 9 a.m. in the park.
Registration deadline is Nov. 14. Class size this year is limited to 1,000 students. Cost of the four two-hour sessions is $15.
This year, with the anniversary celebration, each student will receive a commemorative T-shirt and pin.
Students can register at the Deseret News offices, 30 E. 100 South, or at one of two Canyon Sports stores, 1844 S. 7000 South and 514 S. 200 West. For information call 942-3100 or 237-2135.
Canyon Sports will also make available to those without skis or with equipment too old to be safe a special ski rental package that will include skis, bindings, boots and poles for $6 per class. For $27, students can pick up the equipment prior to the first class and return it five weeks later, after the final class.
Originally, instructors for the program were recruited by one of the founders, Alf Engen. Many of them taught under Engen at Alta. Later, because of the large number of students, Engen began a long-term relationship with the University of Utah ski instructor's program.
Today, most of the ski teachers are part of the university program.