National Brotherhood Of Skiers 35th Anniversary
by Lawanda Joseph (BPRW)
Upon arrival in Breckenridge, NBS members were greeted by a huge welcome banner that stretched across the town’s primary road, Main Street.
“The Breckenridge community has worked closely with the NBS for more than a year to help make our 35th anniversary celebration a special event. The Breckenridge community’s hospitality has been especially warm and appreciated,” said Rose Thomas Pickrum, NBS President.
NBS members hit Breckenridge’s slopes early on Sunday, January 13, 2008. A full day of skiing and riding culminated with NBS clubs parading through town to the official opening ceremonies.
Celebratory remarks from NBS President Thomas Pickrum, NBS Founders Art Clay and Ben Finley and others energized the outdoor opening ceremonies. NBS National Team youth members greeted the crowd and expressed thanks for the organization’s ongoing financial support. Funds generated from sponsorship dollars and NBS annual and regional events support the specialized, year-round training required for youth race team members.
More skiing, riding and shopping at local Breckenridge shops and restaurants filled NBS members’ calendars over the next few days. World famous disc jockey Kid Capri also provided entertainment at a number of NBS evening activities.
“Thirty five years is quite a milestone. From the vision of founders Clay and Finley and the 13 clubs that attended our first ski event in Aspen in 1973 to today’s NBS, our organization has expanded its reach tremendously. We are proud of what we have accomplished and look forward to making the NBS an even stronger organization,” added NBS President Thomas Pickrum. Today, the NBS has 77 clubs throughout the U.S. and the United Kingdom. Its membership exceeds 8,000.
On Wednesday, January 16, 2008, Breckenridge’s Peak 8 mountain base area hosted the NBS Picnic On The Hill, one of the week’s most popular events. Later that evening, members turned out in full force to attend the organization’s gala dinner. NBS clubs and members were recognized for their contributions to the organization.
The event’s final two days will see NBS members compete in ski and snowboard racing and elect new officers. The racers will compete for medals at all levels, from novice to expert. Newly elected officers will serve the organization through 2010.
The NBS has selected Aspen/Snowmass to be the location for their 2009 Summit during the week of January 31 to February 7, 2009.
For more information about the National Brotherhood of Skiers, please visit www.nbs.org.
NBS Mission Statement: To identify, develop and support athletes of color who will WIN Olympic and international winter sports competitions representing the United States and to increase participation in winter sports.
