9 quick questions with pro-freeskier Shane Carmichael

Shane Carmichael, Faction freeskier, was out skiing with us during our first ever Steep Week this February, we caught up with him between ski runs to ask a few questions...Q1 - So you've just finished experiencing the first ever WASA/TLH Steep Week, can you give me 3 words to describe your experience?

SC - Best time ever.

Q2 - What did you expect going into the trip and was there anything that surprised you?
SC - I didn't really know what to expect, but i was definitely surprised by how much vertical we skied every day.

Q3 - Was this your first time heli-skiing? If so what was the best part about it? If not how did this experience differ from others?

SC - Yeah, first time heli-skiing. Best part was skiing so much powder you can just ski so many runs with a heli to bump you (back) up every time.

Q4 - What kind of terrain do you find the most fun to ski?
SC - I love steep and deep runs off of large peaks.

Q5 - Where do you normally ski and how does the terrain at TLH compare?

SC - I typically ski in Whistler and the surrounding backcountry. The terrain is very similar but with no competition from other skiers, just your heli group and powder.

Q6 - Being an experienced professional freeskier yourself what do you think yourself or others might have gained from the week?

SC - I think everyone learned a bit about terrain selection and skiing hard while staying within our own personal boundaries.

Q7 - How did you get into the world of professional freeskiing? Who are your sponsors?

SC - I competed in big mountain competitions for a few years on the world tour circuit, and i work closely with numerous professional videographers and photographers. I ride for Faction Skis.

Q8 - When you aren't out skiing what are you doing?SC - I play bass and do vocals in a Heavy Metal Band (myspace.com/hoopsnakeriffs ). I am also an owner/operator of a roofing company in Squamish, BC.Q9 - What would you tell your friends or other people who are thinking of taking the next TLH & WASA Steep Week April 8 - 15, 2011?SC - Do it and you will have the best ski experience of your life. The terrain is unbelievable, and the guides/coaches are the best i have ever seen.

Check out the short video from Shane's trip and see what he's talking about!

Tyax Lodge Heli with Shane Carmichael and friends. from shane carmichael on Vimeo.