Some seasoned skiers think that mogul skiing is an almost forgotten art. The modern penchant for perfectly groomed pistes means that learning to ski bumps is not on the top of everyone's list. So it's good to know that every year since 1990, teams of skiers from top resorts have got together to compete for the title of the Boss des Bosses (bosse: fr, noun; bump, mogul).
This year's Boss des Bosses, the 20th edition, is promising to be the biggest and best, and takes place on 18th March at the Grands Montets, Argentiere.
History:
The competition began as a result of a bar-room argument over which resort had the best skiers - Chamonix or Val d'Isere. It was decided that the disagreement should be settled on the slopes. On the third Thursday of March 1990, the Val d'Isere team came to the Grands Montets for the first Boss des Bosses. The result was a tie. The following week, team Chamonix won the day 14-5 at the HOP course in Val d'Isere. However this didn't settle the argument and the competition was repeated the following year, with Verbier and Zermatt also getting involved.
Since then the competition has grown in stature and now attracts mogul skiers from some of Europe's best resorts. This year's contest is between Zermatt, Chamonix, Val d'Isere, Meribel, Courchevel and Verbier.
Teams:
Each team consists of 9 skiers (2 women, 7 men), 2 snowboarders and 2 telemarkers. The legendary extreme skier Glen Plake, of the famous mohawk, competed for Chamonix in last year's contest, and is hoping to be selected again this year. It is also rumoured that he will be playing guitar at the prize giving party to be held at La Terrasse in the evening.
Spectators:
This is a fantastic day out for spectators and includes not only some fantastic skiing but also parties, piste-side barbeques, top DJs, live bands and sometimes very silly fancy dress!
The competition starts at 11.00am on the pitch above the Rojan and Tabe chair lifts. It is free for spectators - although of course a lift pass is necessary. Supporters can buy a pedestrian pass or a special price ski pass.
Zermatt has held the trophy for the last two years, so the other competitors will be keen to knock them off the pedestal. Why not go along to lend your support!
For more information have a look at the Boss des Bosses and if you're looking for accommodation for the event try our Chamonix section or post your request on the Solutions Room.
