It's happening this year! The long-awaited "Freee"
March 5th (Sat) - 6th (Sun), 2022
at YAMABOKU Wild Snow Park
The Japan Telemark Ski Association and the Freeheel Project Executive Committee will soon be hosting a fun, participatory freeheel skiing event called "Furie 2022." Telemarkers and those interested in telemark skiing are invited to gather at Yamaboku Wild Snow Park in Nagano Prefecture!
■What is "Freee 2022"?
Telemark skiing was originally a style of skiing (free heel skiing) for walking and gliding through natural snowy mountains (backcountry). "Furie" is a participatory event where you can easily experience the charm of telemark skiing on the slopes. In addition to test rides of new models for the coming season, the program includes telemark ski lessons, trial sessions, races, and more, allowing you to experience the fun of free heel skiing
The event has been cancelled for the past two seasons due to the effects of COVID-19, but it is making a welcome comeback this season! Taking precautions to prevent the spread of infection, the event is being held for the first time in three years, and many telemark fans are welcome to participate!
Introducing the fascinating content of "Freee 2022"!
1. Test drive of next year's new model
A test ride event will be held over two days. Related manufacturers will be present with their new models, showcasing their new products for the coming season and Telemark ski-related products that are rarely available in stores. Participants will be able to try out the products on the snow and hear detailed explanations from manufacturer staff
2. A wide range of programs for beginners, including "selectable lessons" and "one-day trial sessions"
Certified instructors from the Japan Telemark Ski Association (TAJ) offer lessons focusing on their areas of expertise and techniques. In addition, there are "One-Day Experience Sessions" that include equipment rental and instruction, and "Free-Style Girls' Gatherings" for women, with the option to participate in multiple sessions.
Mini-tours are also offered, allowing participants to enjoy walking on the natural terrain around the ski resort using skins (anti-slip devices) and off-piste skiing.
*Please note that the number of participants in lessons and experience sessions may be limited
3. Introductory program for starting telemark skiing
For those who are interested in telemark skiing but don't know how to get started, we are holding a "drop-in trial session." Equipment rental is included, an instructor will guide you, and participation is free! Why not take this opportunity to give it a try?
4. A variety of programs that can be enjoyed by intermediate and advanced skiers
There will be programs such as the "Pole Skiing Experience" where you can ski down the pole set you see in ski races, and "Let's Play with Step Soles" where you can enjoy the fields and mountains using skis with scale-like surfaces. In addition, there will be TAJ-certified races, so you can see the impressive skiing of advanced skiers up close!
*The program content may be subject to change due to COVID-19 infection prevention measures
■Program
<New Model Exhibition & Test Ride Event>
Try out new products for next season and rare telemark skiing-related items!
<One-Day Experience Session: "Now You Too Can Become a Telemark Skier">
A one-day course that includes equipment rental, instruction, and participation in a test ride session.
<Themed Lessons>
TAJ-certified instructors offer lessons in their areas of expertise and techniques.
<Let's play with step soles>
Step soles are unique to Free Heel. Let's have fun with skis that have a scale-like texture.
<Yamaboku Mini Tour>
A mini tour involving walking, climbing, and skiing is held in a field adjacent to the ski resort.
<Pole Skiing Experience>
An experience corner will be set up where you can actually ski using poles (Day 1).
<Free Cup (Telemark Ski Race)>
The TAJ-sanctioned race "Free Cup" will be held. Test your skills and take on the challenge!
<Ski Orienteering>
A signature event at Freee. An orienteering event in the style of a sports day is held throughout the entire ski resort area. It is a team competition with teams of three. You can participate with friends or by yourself.
<Various Workshops>
A wide variety of workshops, different from lessons and tours. Enjoy making a snow table, a relaxing snow cafe, and lectures on weather and environmental themes.
<FREE Market>
A pop-up shop opens in the tent village on the slopes during the FREE period! Enjoy some light shopping for small items, accessories, outlet goods, and more.
<Walk-in Trial Session (Free Telemark Skiing Experience)>
A trial session of approximately one hour will be held. Equipment rental and instructor guidance are provided. (*For this program only, no prior registration is required.)
■Event Overview
Freee 2022
Date and Time: March 5th (Sat) - 6th (Sun), 2022 (2 days)
Venue: YAMABOKU Wild Snow Park (Takayama Village, Shimotakai District, Nagano Prefecture)
Organizer: Japan Telemark Ski Association / Frie Project Executive Committee
Official Website: https://www.ski-taj.org/frie/
*Japan Telemark Ski Association (TAJ)
is an organization that promotes the popularization, development, and advancement of telemark skiing, and works for the future development and inheritance of snow sports in general.
[Regarding Application]
Application Method: Sports Entry (https://www.sportsentry.ne.jp/event/t/86748)
*Applications are also accepted at participating shops and schools. See the official website for details.
Application Period: February 19, 2022 - Day of Free
[Headquarters/Contact Information]
Japan Telemark Ski Association / Frie Project Executive Committee
frie@ski-taj.org