WILMINGTON, N.Y. -- The Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) is leading the way for bringing new winter enthusiasts to the ski slopes with their trademarked Parallel from the Start learn to ski program. This all-inclusive program guarantees that you’ll be at the top of the mountain within three days, and at just $169, it’s your best bet for learning how to ski.

The program is about confidence and quick advancement. The combination of instruction and shorter skis allow beginners to feel comfortable from their very first minute on snow and immediately builds confidence which creates a fun experience.

“If people feel immediate success they’re going to enjoy what they are doing,” said veteran ski instructor Ed Kriel. “Over the years, the program has taught thousands of people to do what once was unthinkable… parallel ski in a single day.”

For those who have gone through it, it’s described as “what was scary yesterday, was a piece of cake today.” These results are based on the unique instruction and special shorter skis used in the Parallel from the Start program. With the shorter skis, you are not tiring as quickly, therefore; you have more energy and are able to develop more quickly, like moving from the magic carpet to the chair lift.

If you ever thought about learning to ski or snowboard, this is the year to do it. The ski industry as a whole is making huge strides in reaching out to new customers, removing barriers that prevent people from entering the sport, and sharing the passion that turns a first-timer into a life-timer.

ORDA  reviewed the National Ski Area Association’s (NSAA) Conversion Cookbook and committed to creating new skiers and riders at its ski resorts this winter. At Belleayre Ski Resort, in Highmount, N.Y; Gore Mountain, in North Creek, N.Y. and Whiteface, in Wilmington, N.Y., there is revived energy for all snow sports programming. Simply put, they have made their Learn to Ski and Learn to Snowboard programs fun, easy, and for just $169, more affordable than ever.

Parallel from the Start (for skiers) and Learn to Snowboard (for snowboarders) are specifically geared toward those ages 13+ looking to get into the sport. The three-day all-inclusive programs include three days of beginner lift tickets, lessons, and rentals for only $169 – a deal that can’t be beat considering that you can use these three days anytime consecutively or not consecutively throughout the season. In addition, skiers and riders in the program receive a free Frequent Skier Card at the end of their third day that gives them discounts on lift tickets for the rest of the season.

There are also a wide variety of youth options ranging from one day experiences to six week development programs. Each are geared specifically toward different ages and abilities while all incorporating guidance and instruction from those who love to ski and ride.

So, if you’ve been waiting for the right time to pick up a new and healthy lifestyle activity, come out to Belleayre, Gore or Whiteface this winter and Learn to Ski or Snowboard.

For more information visit www.nyski3.com or ORDA’s mountain websites:

1. whitefacelakeplacid.com
2. goremountain.com
3. belleayre.com

-- ORDA --

Established in 1982, the New York State Olympic Regional Development Authority (ORDA) was created by the State of New York to manage the facilities used during the 1980 Olympic Winter Games at Lake Placid. ORDA operates Whiteface, Belleayre and Gore Mountain ski areas; the Olympic Sports Complex at Mt. Van Hoevenberg; the Olympic speed skating oval, Olympic jumping complex and Olympic arena. As host to international and national championships, the Authority has brought millions of athletes, spectator and participants to the region, resulting in significant economic development.