Chris Whitaker

My introduction to skiing came relatively late in life in the form of a two-week Nordic skiing training package in Norway whilst at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst. Despite best efforts to limit fun, we were granted two days of Alpine skiing at Lillehammer…. and my eyes were opened. Assigned for six years to Germany, I learnt to race with 1 (UK) Armd Division in Les Contamines. There were also ample opportunities to head away to Austria for long weekends with my fellow subalterns. We became regulars at the Stubai and masters at catching the overnight train from St Anton to Hannover to arrive back in time for work on Monday morning by the skin of our teeth.

I still ski with the same gang of four from 25 years ago, albeit now with families in tow – our numbers have quadrupled. Our enthusiasm for skiing remains undimmed, although admittedly, the mileage covered, and volumes of raclette and beer consumed has reduced. I enjoy cruisy blues and off-piste in equal measure. I’m also partial to an unhurried lunch, but above all, I enjoy discovering new places, finding mountain solace and having fun skiing with interesting groups of people.