Spring of 2016 was a sad season for the Freeride community. In April the all inspiring Swiss snowboarder Estelle Balet was killed in an avalanche while filming in Orsiére Switzerland. Only 3 months later we were hit with another blow when Matilda Rapaport was also killed in an avalanche while Filming in Chile. These death were tragic for innumerable reasons. My thoughts still go out to their family and friends.

​

I was hit particularly hard. Firstly because I knew them both, having had traveled and competed with them on the Freeride World Tour. I was always in awe of Estelle’s determination to compete at the same level as the boys. She was a go getter that wasn’t going to let social expectations define her snowboarding. Matilda was a strong leader for the female skiers. She was quick to help you get over a slump reminding you there was always the next competition. Secondly, they were females in the freeride scene their careers and lives were very relatable seeing as they were women in the same industry. 

 

 Although I had done some filming during my Freeride career I had never had an offer from a big production company. When Warren Miller asked me to be a feature in it 69th film “ Face of Winter.” I was over the moon. Although very excited I couldn’t help but think of Estelle and Matilda. This was something they had done all the time but this was a new opportunity for me.

 

The fact of the matter is skiing is dangerous and in Freeride there is the added danger of being in avalanche terrain. Skiers and athletes are aware of these risks and hopefully take safety measures needed to mitigate that danger. There is also no denying these dangers can be exacerbated by added pressure from filming or competition. This pressure CAN cause clouded judgment calls or diminished safety measures. I say CAN because it does not mean that it is always the case just that it is a possibility. A very real possibility that needs to be addressed in order to be avoided.

 

I can not say whether or not the pressure of filming had any affect on Estelle or Matilda’s situations. My hope is that everyone involved felt free to voice concerns and that every possible safety measure was taken. There is no denying that they were both filming when they had their accidents. Since I was going to be filming I couldn’t help but think back to them. There was a part of me that was worried. What if I didn’t feel comfortable? What if the pressure of filming clouded my judgement? What if others around me weren’t being safe or listening? All the random thoughts and worries that run through your mind when you are unsure were there. 

 

When I met the Warren Miller crew, I was relieved that the topic was addressed right away and on numerous occasions. Everyone involved seemed aware of the pressure that can accompany a film shoot. We all agreed between filmers, filmees, guides and staff that anyone could pull the plug on a shot and everyone was encouraged to voice concerns. Warren Miller teamed up with BCA helping me feel safe and comfortable. We equipped ourselves with the best of the best safety tools, including BCA float bags, trackers, shovel, probes, ect… but more than that we had a consensus as a team to be safe and an understanding to keep constant communication. We used the BCA radios to stay in contact. Talking about shots, lighting and almost every 30 minutes someone would chime in to check on energy levels, confidence, and safety updates. I felt very fortunate to have knowledgable open minded people all around me in my film shoot. Before a day of filming we would go over our game plan, inspect our equipment and run a safety training. 

 

Although I was beyond lucky to have such safe, down to earth film crew I still experienced the added pressure that came with filming. It is exciting, even helpful, just like the adrenal in competition. However, I was thankful to have thought of this pressure before even being in the situation, so that I was cognizant of the effects both positive and negative. It is a good reminder that whether you are filming, competing or even just out with your buddies, you as the athlete 100% have the right to back out of any uncomfortable situation. It might not feel like it at the time, when cameras are rolling and heli rides have already been paid for, but its your life and your call. If this is discussed before heading out it empowers everyone involved to be aware of their surroundings and reminds everyone of the importance of their voice.

 

Just like I look up to Estelle and Matilda for being strong in their competitive careers, I also admire their strength and ability to preform with the pressures of filming. Although their accidents were tragic the memory of their successful careers and lives keeps me motivated and reminds me to stay strong and true to myself.